What is the origin of the idiom "against the clock" and when to use it?

The idiom "against the clock" originated from the world of sports, specifically from track and field events. In these events, athletes compete to achieve the fastest time or set a new record. The phrase "against the clock" refers to the idea of competing against time itself, as the clock measures and records the duration of the performance. It is commonly used in professional settings such as project management, business, and emergency situations, where deadlines play a crucial role.