In a breathtaking display of power and precision, Britain's Keely Hodgkinson stormed to victory in the women's 800m final at the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Glasgow, claiming the gold medal that had eluded her in previous global finals.
The 21-year-old phenom from Atherton executed a perfectly timed race, surging ahead on the final lap to cross the line in a championship record time of 1:59.03. Her triumphant performance not only secured her first world title but also delivered Britain's first gold medal of the championships.
A masterclass in tactical running, Hodgkinson bided her time in the early stages, allowing Ethiopia's Habitam Alemu to set the pace. With two laps remaining, the British star made her move, powering past the field with a devastating kick that left her competitors trailing.
Fellow Brit Jemma Reekie put on an impressive show for the home crowd, battling through the pack to secure a well-earned bronze medal with a time of 2:00.38. This marked a historic moment for British athletics, with two athletes standing on the podium together at a world indoor championship.
"It feels amazing to finally call myself a world champion," an elated Hodgkinson told reporters after the race. "I knew I had to be patient and time my run perfectly. The crowd here in Glasgow was incredible - their energy really pushed me through those final laps."
The victory represents a significant milestone for Hodgkinson, who has previously secured silver medals at both the Olympic Games and World Outdoor Championships. This breakthrough win confirms her status as Britain's most dominant middle-distance runner and a formidable force on the global stage.
With the Paris Olympics looming on the horizon, this commanding performance sends a clear message to her rivals: Hodgkinson is hitting peak form at exactly the right time.
