Keely Hodgkinson wrapped up a challenging season impressively by winning the 800 meters at the all-women’s Athlos London track and field meet. Despite previous hamstring concerns, she dominated the race in a black, hooded speedsuit, giving off a superhero vibe rather than a typical middle-distance runner look.
The British Olympic champion surged ahead in the final 200 meters, finishing in 1 minute 56.40 seconds, securing a comfortable victory of over two seconds at a packed StoneX Stadium. This event marked the first Athlos competition held outside the United States following two successful meetings in New York.
Expressing her joy, Hodgkinson mentioned how she wished for such events in her youth, emphasizing the importance of enjoying life. Last week, she had revealed a hamstring tear suffered during the European Championships in Birmingham, which followed a previous diagnosis of a rare split hamstring tendon that allowed her to continue competing despite the injury, but with a risk of recurrence.
At the London event, the 24-year-old athlete showcased no signs of injury, embracing the playful atmosphere in her unique attire reminiscent of Cathy Freeman at the 2000 Olympics, including dark glasses. Hodgkinson expressed excitement about debuting her collaboration with Nike at the all-women’s event, highlighting the positive reception it received.
Athlos, founded by Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, aims to elevate women’s athletics by offering substantial prize money, athlete ownership opportunities, and a more entertainment-oriented approach. The London event featured innovative elements like individual athlete walkouts, a raised stage for the long jump, and winners receiving custom Tiffany & Co. crowns.
American sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson, who triumphed in the 100 meters with a time of 10.80 seconds, praised the global impact of Athlos, foreseeing its continuous growth and influence on the athletics world. The streamlined event featured straight finals in seven disciplines, with winners earning $65,000 US and a $250,000 bonus for breaking a world record.
Amidst cool weather conditions and end-of-season fatigue, athletes delivered commendable performances, with no world records under immediate threat. The event witnessed various standout moments, including Poland’s Klaudia Kazimierska narrowly beating Britain’s Georgia Hunter Bell in the women’s mile, and Olympic champion Gabby Thomas securing victory in the 200 meters.
Overall, the Athlos London event showcased a blend of competitive spirit, entertainment, and celebration, underscoring its commitment to redefining women’s athletics on a global stage.