Keely Hodgkinson Devastated by Hamstring Injury Ahead of World Record Attempt

Keely Hodgkinson, the Olympic 800m champion, has revealed her devastation after suffering a hamstring injury that has derailed her bid to break a 23-year-old world record. The injury occurred during her final training session before the Keely Klassic, an event she helped design, forcing her to withdraw from the competition. Hodgkinson was aiming to break Jolanda Ceplak’s indoor 800m record of 1:55.82, set in 2002, but her dreams were shattered when she felt a sudden pull in her hamstring during a routine stride after training. A subsequent scan confirmed a tear, leaving her heartbroken.

"What’s really tough is that I was in the best shape of my life," Hodgkinson shared with Sky Sports News. "We had done everything right—altitude training in the Pyrenees, warm weather training in South Africa, and my training sessions were going better than ever. I truly believed I could break that record, especially after the momentum I built last year in Paris. To have it all taken away like this is just really gutting." Despite her disappointment, Hodgkinson is determined to bounce back and remains focused on her long-term goals.

A Dream Derailed: The Road to the World Record

Hodgkinson and her coaches, Jenny Meadows and Trevor Painter, had been meticulously preparing for this moment. They were confident that she had the speed, stamina, and strategy to surpass Ceplak’s record. The Keely Klassic was specifically designed to provide the perfect conditions for her attempt, with pacing and race dynamics tailored to her strengths. Hodgkinson had even visualized the race, imagining how smoothly it could go and how historic the moment could be.

"I had this clear picture in my head of how it was all going to come together," she said. "It wasn’t just about me; it was about making the sport exciting for fans and inspiring the next generation. But then, in an instant, it was over. That’s what’s so hard to accept." The injury is a Grade 3C tear, which will keep her sidelined for up to six weeks. This timeline not only rules her out of the Keely Klassic but also puts her participation in next month’s World Athletics Indoor Championships in jeopardy.

The Road to Recovery and the Outdoor Season

While the indoor season is likely over for Hodgkinson, her team remains optimistic that her outdoor season will not be affected. She is already setting her sights on the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo this September, where she hopes to add the 800m world title to her growing list of achievements. Hodgkinson, who won Olympic gold in Paris last year, is determined to use this setback as motivation rather than a hindrance.

"I know I’m strong enough to come back from this," she said. "Injuries are part of the sport, and I’ve been here before. What matters is how I respond. I’m already focusing on my rehab and making sure I come out of this even stronger." Her resilience is a testament to her mental and physical toughness, qualities that have made her one of the most respected athletes in track and field.

A Leader Off the Track: Hodgkinson’s Vision for the Sport

Even though Hodgkinson won’t be competing at the Keely Klassic, she will still be present at the event, which she played a key role in designing. The meet features innovative formats and ideas aimed at engaging both the public and a younger audience, reflecting Hodgkinson’s passion for growing the sport. While she won’t be on the track, other top athletes, including Olympic bronze medalist Georgia Bell and pole vaulter Molly Caudery, will be attempting British records, ensuring the event remains exciting and competitive.

Hodgkinson’s involvement highlights her commitment to the sport beyond her own performances. "I want to make athletics more accessible and fun for everyone," she explained. "If I can inspire even one young athlete to pick up the sport, then it’s all worth it." Her influence extends far beyond her own achievements, making her a true leader in the world of track and field.

Looking Ahead: The Resilience of a Champion

Despite the disappointment of her injury, Hodgkinson remains determined to achieve her goals. She is already looking ahead to the outdoor season, where she plans to defend her titles and continue breaking barriers. Her focus on the World Championships in Tokyo is unwavering, and she is confident that her hard work and resilience will carry her through.

"Injuries are never easy, but I know I’m not alone in this," she said. "Every athlete faces setbacks, and it’s how you respond that defines you. I’m choosing to use this as fuel to come back stronger and faster than ever before." With her positive attitude and unrelenting work ethic, there’s no doubt that Hodgkinson will continue to inspire fans and dominate the sport for years to come. Her journey is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the spirit of a champion can never be broken.