Keely Hodgkinson: How Olympic champion broke indoor 800m world record
BBC World
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Keely Hodgkinson made history by breaking the indoor 800m world record, a feat that stood for over two decades. The British athlete, just 23 years old, achieved this remarkable milestone in Lievin, France, with a time of one minute 54.87 seconds. This victory came after overcoming significant challenges, including injury issues and mental barriers following her Olympic success. Hodgkinson's nickname 'Keely 2.0' reflects her evolution as an athlete, emphasizing her resilience and enhanced performance.
Hodgkinson's journey was meticulously planned with her coaches, Trevor Painter and Jenny Meadows. Meadows, a former international runner, played a crucial role in guiding Hodgkinson. They chose Lievin for its fast track history and set February 19, 2026, as their target date. This decision was based on statistical analysis and the belief that this would be their best opportunity to achieve record-breaking success during the indoor season.
Meadows highlighted the mental aspect of preparation, noting that Hodgkinson's fear wasn't failure but disappointment with her time. The team focused on the process rather than pressure, trusting their athlete's ability to deliver under intense scrutiny. Their strategy was minimalist, avoiding overtraining and instead relying on a well-structured plan that kept Keely motivated through varied goals.
Hodgkinson's triumph is not just an athletic achievement but also a testament to the power of mental resilience and strategic preparation. Her story inspires aspiring athletes worldwide, showing that overcoming setbacks and trusting one's training can lead to extraordinary accomplishments. This victory further cements British athletics' reputation for producing world-class talent, making it a significant moment in global sports history.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/20/2026