Keely Hodgkinson, the remarkable 22-year-old Olympic 800m gold medalist, has been crowned the BBC Sports Personality of the Year (SPOTY) for 2024, highlighting her incredible achievements throughout the year. Her stunning performance at the Paris Olympics, where she clinched gold, was the pinnacle of her season, which also included retaining her European title and breaking the British record.
After years of striving for Olympic glory, Hodgkinson finally achieved her dream at the 2024 Olympics, where she finished the race with a time of 1:54.61, propelling her to the distinction of being the sixth-fastest woman of all time. "I’m more excited for my coach because I wouldn’t be here without his guidance," she said during her acceptance speech, reflecting on her season. "This year has been incredible, and I achieved everything I set out to do on the outdoor track. I hope you loved watching Paris."
Hailing from Leigh, Hodgkinson’s commitment and talent have made her one of Britain’s outstanding middle-distance runners. Her Olympic win was not just a personal victory but also marked Team GB's first Olympic track title since 2016, making Hodgkinson the first British woman to win gold in athletics since Jessica Ennis-Hill’s heptathlon victory at the London 2012 Games.
Hodgkinson had previously earned two World Championship silver medals following her Olympic debut, proving her status as a consistent force on the international stage. Winning gold has solidified her legacy and has begun to inspire the next generation of athletes. Not only did she defend her European 800m title successfully, but she also etched her name among the legends of the sport by breaking her own British record during the London Diamond League.
The award ceremony on December 17 was held at Media City, Salford, and saw Hodgkinson triumph over tough competition, including rising darts star Luke Littler, who placed second, and cricket legend Joe Root, who finished third. The impressive shortlist also featured other noteworthy athletes like Alex Yee and Jude Bellingham.
Hodgkinson's victory continues the trend of female winners for the SPOTY award, marking the fourth consecutive year women have taken home the title. Previous winners include Mary Earps (2023), Beth Mead (2022), and Emma Raducanu (2021). Hodgkinson's success is seen as not just personal achievement, but as evidence of the strong progression and recognition of women's sports.
Reflecting on her victory, Hodgkinson revealed, "When I started to read the names of past winners, I realized it is history right in front of you. It shows how women’s sport is strong right now and is making its mark." This recognition highlights the increasing visibility and celebration of female athletes.
The duo of her coaches, Trevor Painter and Jenny Meadows, were also honored at the ceremony, receiving the Coach of the Year award. Hodgkinson affirmed their pivotal roles, noting, "This award is as much theirs as mine. Without their guidance and support, I wouldn't be standing here today." The partnership and teamwork behind Hodgkinson’s ascent are a significant part of her success story.
Looking forward, Hodgkinson aims to break the 800m world record, currently set at 1:53.28 since 1983. She is set to represent Team GB at the upcoming World Championships and is determined to build on her previous successes. "I’m ready for whatever’s next. This is just the beginning," she stated, embodying the spirit and ambition of her generation.
Hodgkinson shares her aspirations, not only to pursue more accolades but also to inspire youth participation in athletics. Aiming to attract more attention to track and field, she has plans to launch the 'Keely Klassic,' showcasing her desire to give back to the sport.
The record-breaking achievement of Hodgkinson is not just about medals and titles; it is about the influential mark she is leaving on British athletics and the inspiration she provides to countless young athletes watching across the nation. Her indisputable talent and personable nature are sure to endear her to fans as she continues her career.
After her remarkable win, Hodgkinson is determined to stay grounded and focused. She celebrated her award modestly, opting for water instead of champagne, as she prepared for rigorous training for forthcoming competitions. It is this hard-working mentality and the tutelage of her coaches, coupled with her immense talent, which positions Hodgkinson as one of the leading figures of athletics today.
While she reflects on her accomplishments with astonishment, her eyes are set on new challenges. Hodgkinson stated, "There are so many milestones to hit. I just want to keep building on what I’ve already done." This dedication assures fans and sporting communities alike of her potential to even greater heights.
Keely Hodgkinson's legacy is just commencing, and with each passing year, she promises to inspire more to step onto the athletic field, pushing boundaries, creating history, and continuing to make sports history.
