Which poet wrote victory odes for athletic competitions and lived from 518 to 438 B.C.E.?

Pindar is the correct answer as he is renowned for composing victory odes, known as epinikia, which celebrated the achievements of athletic victors in the ancient Greek games, particularly the Olympics and the Pythian Games. His work is characterized by rich imagery and intricate language, and he lived during a time when these competitions were highly esteemed in Greek culture. Pindar's odes not only honored individual athletes but also captured the spirit of competition and the values of Greek society.

His poetic contributions were significant in that they reflected a blend of cultural reverence for victory, personal glory, and the gods' influence, highlighting the connection between human achievement and divine favor. Pindar's legacy as a poet of athletic victory distinguishes him from the other poets listed, each of whom had different themes and focuses in their works.