Keely Hodgkinson is gearing up for the Paris Olympics with her sights set firmly on the gold medal. As she steps into the French capital, she’s already a top contender for the 800 meters event.
If she clinches victory, she could become Britain’s first female Olympic athletics champion in 12 years.
Back in 2012, a young Keely Hodgkinson was captivated by Jessica Ennis-Hill’s triumph at the London Olympics.
Although she was initially more interested in swimming, watching Ennis-Hill win gold inspired her to return to running.
Fast forward 12 years, and Hodgkinson, now 22, is preparing to potentially follow in her hero’s footsteps.
“It’s a huge honor to be compared to Jess,” Hodgkinson said as she readied herself for the 800 meters heats in Paris.
“If I can achieve what she did and bring home the gold, that would be incredible.”
By the time the Games kick off, expectations are high for Hodgkinson.
She won silver in the previous Olympics and has secured medals at the last two World Championships.
This year, she’s run the 800 meters faster than any other woman globally, setting the stage for a possible gold medal performance.
Getting to Know Keely
Trevor Painter, one of Hodgkinson’s coaches, first saw her competing in a shot put event at age 14 and was surprised by her talent.
Recognizing her potential, Painter and his wife, Jenny Meadows, began working with Hodgkinson when she was 17.
This transition was pivotal for Hodgkinson, leading her to win a stunning silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics just two years later.
“Keely was just running before, but we helped her become an athlete,” Meadows explained.
“She’s incredibly coachable and determined. Her progress has been remarkable.”
Despite facing setbacks like a knee injury and illness, Hodgkinson’s perseverance has been a defining trait. Her determination was evident when she continued to compete despite falling ill before a major race.
Outside the track, Hodgkinson is known for her vibrant personality and sense of style. Painter describes her sporting chic even in training, with a penchant for high-end fashion.
However, her playful side shines through too, with stories of her light-hearted pranks and upbeat demeanor.
The transition from a teenager to an elite athlete was challenging for Hodgkinson. She struggled with depression after her Olympic success in Tokyo, feeling overwhelmed by the sudden change in her life.
With support from her family, coaches, and a psychologist, she has gradually returned to her more jovial self.
Hodgkinson’s star power extends beyond athletics.
Recently, she received a Manchester United shirt with her name on it, a nod to her football fan status.
Looking ahead, she dreams of celebrating an Olympic gold by being paraded at Old Trafford.
Her success has also opened doors to various endorsements and fashion opportunities. Hodgkinson has collaborated with Nike and luxury brands like Omega and Rimmel London, bringing a new level of visibility to track and field athletes.
Despite her rising fame, Hodgkinson remains grounded. Meadows notes her humility and dedication, emphasizing that for Hodgkinson, performance always takes precedence over celebrity.
As Hodgkinson prepares for the Olympics, she’s focused on her goal: winning gold and possibly treating herself to a new Porsche. If she succeeds, Porsche might even reward her with a supercar of her own.
TDPel Media
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