Key Highlights
- Hodgkinson aims for world record in 800m at London Diamond League
- She plans to break the 43-year-old mark of 1:53.28 set by Jarmila Kratochvilova
- Hodgkinson’s attention turns from indoor to outdoor records post-injury
- London Stadium could host World Athletics Championships in 2029, depending on stadium availability
The Pressure of Home Ground
Keely Hodgkinson is a force to be reckoned with. The six-time global medallist, now 24, is preparing for the ‘battle of world records’ at this year’s London Diamond League. She’s ready to take on the long-standing mark of one minute and fifty-three seconds, eight hundredths in the women’s 800m, set by Czech athlete Jarmila Kratochvilova back in July 1983. This is a goal that not only requires supreme athletic skill but also some luck with the weather and the competition.
A Winter of Training
After an injury-marred 2025 season, Hodgkinson has dedicated herself to rigorous training this winter. Her efforts paid off in February when she broke the world indoor record, demonstrating that her comeback is no fluke. She’s now focused on moving from indoor to outdoor records and sees London as a perfect stage for such a historic achievement.
Home Soil, Home Crowd
London has always been special for Hodgkinson. The crowd’s support is a huge motivator, and the stadium’s capacity of 60,000 makes it feel like competing in your own backyard. She admits, “Obviously I would love to have that happen on home soil.” This isn’t just about setting records; it’s also about inspiring the next generation and showcasing British athletics globally.
The Road Ahead
If she doesn’t break the record at this year’s Diamond League, Hodgkinson has another chance at the European Athletics Championships in Birmingham. However, with a history of hamstring issues, she remains cautious. “We obviously have a plan ‘A’ of what we would like to happen,” she says. “The sport has its own plans sometimes.”
Future Prospects
Beyond the immediate goal, Hodgkinson is passionate about hosting World Athletics Championships in London in 2029. The UK government’s support for this bid highlights the significance of such events. But securing a venue amidst the concerns over football club West Ham’s availability remains uncertain.
So, will Keely Hodgkinson break the world record at the Diamond League? You might think this is new, but it’s been on her mind for years. The pressure is immense, but so is the excitement.
