-Always skip the cut-scenes when the game permits you (obviously)

-It's really important to understand what events to purposefully do badly on for the sake of time, but while still keeping in mind that you will stay high enough in the leader-board to win gold after the final day.

-I go for bronze or higher on the long jump then foul out for time

-Honestly, for hammer throw, I suggest fouling out too (maybe)

-Get gold in weightlifting then foul.

-Pole vault get bronze and foul out.

-Gold on Javelin Throw

(Those are just some suggestions)

I play on Dreamcast so it is different but still can help.