Keely Hodgkinson, the reigning Olympic champion in the 800m event, is targeting a potential world record at the upcoming London Diamond League. This prestigious meeting is scheduled for July, and Hodgkinson is optimistic about her chances. She recently set a new indoor 800m world record of 1:54.87 in February, surpassing an existing mark that had stood for 24 years.
Targeting the Outdoor World Record
The current outdoor 800m world record, held by Czech athlete Jarmila Kratochvilova, has remained unbroken for nearly 43 years. Hodgkinson and her coaching team believe she possesses the talent needed to challenge this time of 1:53.28. However, Hodgkinson acknowledges that achieving this record requires ideal conditions.
Excitement for London
Speaking about her upcoming competition, Hodgkinson expressed her enthusiasm for competing in London. “I get really excited about London, the whole crowd and everything,” she said. The Diamond League meeting is a significant highlight on her calendar as she prepares for the challenges ahead.
Training and Planning
Hodgkinson’s coaching team, which includes Trevor Painter and Jenny Meadows, shares her ambition for breaking the record. They will make decisions as a collective, factoring in her performance and readiness throughout the season.
- Training Consistency: Hodgkinson has not missed a training session.
- Coaching Approach: Plans are made collaboratively with her team.
- Competition Focus: Emphasizing performance rather than rigid timelines.
On Clean Sport and Integrity
Recently, the controversial Enhanced Games organization, which permits performance-enhancing drugs under medical supervision, has sparked discussions within the athletics community. Hodgkinson commented on the importance of maintaining a clean sport, asserting that integrity is foundational to athletic success.
“I do trust the people that I race against, and it’s not a thought in my brain that I think about,” she conveyed. Hodgkinson dismissed the Enhanced Games as “nonsense,” reaffirming her commitment to a drug-free sport.
As she prepares for the European Athletics Championships in Birmingham later this year, all eyes will be on Hodgkinson as she aims to make waves at the Diamond League meeting in London.
