Keely Hodgkinson etched her name into British athletics history with a commanding victory in the women’s 800m final at the Paris Olympics. The 22-year-old middle-distance runner delivered a powerful performance, leaving no room for doubt as she crossed the finish line first in a time of 1 minute and 56.72 seconds.
Hodgkinson entered the competition as the pre-tournament favorite, boasting the world-leading time for 2024 and a silver medal from the Tokyo Olympics. She lived up to those expectations by taking control of the race early. Seizing the lead at the halfway mark, Hodgkinson maintained a relentless pace throughout the final lap, comfortably holding off any challenges.
Ethiopia’s Tsige Duguma mounted a late surge in the final stretch but ultimately fell short, finishing second with a time of 1 minute and 57.15 seconds. Kenya’s Mary Moraa secured the bronze medal in 1 minute and 57.42 seconds.
Hodgkinson’s victory marks a significant moment for British athletics, ending a long wait for gold. It’s the first athletics gold for Great Britain at the Olympics since Jessica Ennis-Hill’s triumph in the heptathlon at the London 2012 Games.This accomplishment represents not only personal glory for Hodgkinson but also a collective sigh of relief and celebration for British athletics fans.
Having previously secured silver medals at both the World Championships and the Tokyo Olympics, Hodgkinson finally claimed the coveted gold. This victory solidifies her position as one of the world’s leading middle-distance runners and a shining star in British athletics.
Hodgkinson’s success is a testament to her unwavering dedication and exceptional talent. Her relentless pursuit of improvement and ability to handle pressure under the Olympic spotlight have culminated in this defining moment.
The 800m final at the Paris Olympics provided a thrilling display of athletic prowess, but Hodgkinson’s performance stood out. Her dominant victory serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a reminder of the immense potential that resides within British athletics. With a bright future ahead, Hodgkinson is poised to continue her reign in the middle-distance world.
