Hodgkinson Prioritizes Health Ahead of Record Attempt
British Olympic silver medalist Keely Hodgkinson withdrew from the 400m final at the UK Athletics Championships on Sunday, moments before the race was set to begin. The athlete, who typically competes in the 800m, opted out after experiencing a slight sensation, described as a "little twinge," during her final warm-up strides.
Hodgkinson's participation in the 400m event was part of her strategy to enhance her initial lap speed, a crucial element as she aims to challenge the 800m world record later this summer. After successfully advancing through Saturday's heats, she was observed warming up for the final in Birmingham's Alexander Stadium. However, she stepped off the track just before the competitors received their final instructions, visibly emotional as she stood trackside before heading back inside the stadium.
Coach Confirms Precautionary Withdrawal
Her coach, Jenny Meadows, later communicated that the decision to withdraw was made to "play it safe" following the discomfort. This cautious approach comes after a 2023 season marred by injuries for the 22-year-old. Her withdrawal precedes the London Diamond League meeting by four weeks, an event she has identified as a target for her 800m world record attempt.
"She felt a little twinge in her last strides before the race and wanted to play it safe," confirmed Hodgkinson's coach, Jenny Meadows.
In other championship news, Amber Anning, despite an initial false start, regrouped to successfully defend her 400m title, clocking a time of 50.16 seconds. Earlier, Hodgkinson's training partner and competitor, Jemma Reekie, secured her 800m title, leading from start to finish with a time of one minute 55.93 seconds, setting a new championship record that surpassed Kelly Holmes' 1995 mark.