As the Paris Olympics approach, Keely Hodgkinson, the Olympic and world 800m silver medallist, is focused on turning her silver into gold. At just 22 years old, Hodgkinson has already achieved remarkable feats in her career, but it is her recent setbacks that have sharpened her resolve and determination.
In a candid interview with the Telegraph, Hodgkinson discussed her disappointing performance at the Lausanne Diamond League. “If you want to watch a bad race, watch Lausanne,” she said, reflecting on how she was strategically outperformed by Kenyan Mary Moraa. This race, where she struggled to break free and finish strong, has been a significant learning experience. Such moments are pivotal in shaping an athlete’s career, providing valuable lessons that drive future success.
Hodgkinson’s journey includes winning a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics at just 19, with a personal best of 1:55.88. Recently, she set a new personal record at the London Stadium Diamond League, becoming the sixth-fastest woman in 800m history. Despite these remarkable achievements, the period following Tokyo brought emotional challenges. She struggled with focus and motivation after leaving her criminology studies at Leeds Beckett University. “I was low – the Olympic comedown is real,” she shared, feeling guilty for her sadness despite her successes.
The goal for Hodgkinson is clear: winning gold in Paris. “Gold is all I have in my head right now. To get the gold in Paris. For me, that was the one I was always aiming for anyway,” she emphasized. Her rigorous training routine includes running around 35 miles a week and focusing on power and muscle strength. Gym sessions, swimming, and cross-training are critical components of her preparation, helping to boost her endurance and overall performance.
Hodgkinson’s approach to race preparation is thorough and unique. She compares it to getting ready for a night out, starting two hours before the race. Her routine includes showering, applying fake tan, listening to music, and doing her hair and make-up. Visualization with her coach Painter is also crucial, helping her anticipate and avoid race-day mistakes. This meticulous preparation ensures that she is mentally and physically ready to perform at her best.
Reflecting on the 2023 World Championships in Budapest, Hodgkinson described the intense first lap set by her rival, Athing Mu. “The pack was so fast through the first lap. It really made us all hurt,” she said. Despite finishing second, Hodgkinson learned valuable lessons about pacing and endurance. These experiences have made her more resilient and better prepared for future competitions.
Hodgkinson’s competitive nature is evident in her training and race day mindset. “On race day it’s game faces on,” she declared. Her love for the sport and her drive to excel push her to embrace the challenges and pain of training. “I’d be lying if I said I don’t enjoy being good at it,” she admitted, demonstrating the passion and dedication that fuel her success. This competitive spirit is a key factor in her continued growth and success as an athlete.
Hodgkinson’s passion for testing her physical limits drives her to continually improve. “When I was younger I used to love seeing how much pain I could put myself in, which sounds a bit crazy, but you do have to be crazy to do this event,” she admitted. This willingness to embrace the pain and push through challenges sets her apart from her competitors and positions her for continued success.
Keely Hodgkinson’s journey to the Paris Olympics is a testament to her resilience, determination, and unyielding pursuit of excellence. Despite facing setbacks and emotional challenges, her focus on winning gold remains steadfast. As she continues to push her limits and refine her skills, Hodgkinson embodies the spirit of a champion, inspiring others with her dedication and competitive drive. With her eyes set on Paris, Hodgkinson is ready to turn her dreams into reality and achieve the ultimate success on the world stage.
Her story is a powerful reminder that success is not just about talent but also about perseverance, learning from failures, and continually striving for greatness. As she prepares for the Paris Olympics, Keely Hodgkinson stands as a beacon of inspiration, not just for aspiring athletes, but for anyone facing challenges and pursuing their dreams.
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