Keely Hodgkinson was caught by surprise just moments into her BBC interview after reaching the semi-finals of the women's 800m at the European Athletics Championships. The Brit won her heat on Tuesday morning and clocked a time of 1.57 with Italy's Eloisa Coiro, who came in second, quick to congratulate her.
Rival's Unexpected Interruption
While the duo shared an embrace on the track, Coiro also ensured she got her point across in front of the cameras as she interrupted Hodgkinson's interview just as she was about to give her first answer to Sarah Mulkerrins. She said: "She is such an inspiration. Such a cool girl. Such an inspiration, on and off the track, really." Coiro then turned to Hodgkinson and added: "You're the champion for me," with the Atherton-born runner giggling at her rival's remarks.
"Aw, bless her," Hodgkinson replied. "We grew up competing against each other, so it's nice. She just got a PB as well there."
Hodgkinson's Reaction to Heat
The 24-year-old then returned back to her interview and spoke about feeling "comfortable" on the track after taking the first step towards another European crown. She did, however, confess to being surprised by the level of competition in the opening heat and revealed why her rivals are always improving.
"Relieved isn't the word I would use at all," she said. "I've worked so hard and the shape has been there all year, it's just been an unfortunate couple of ends that have led to me being a little bit off. But, who cares? The championship is a fresh start, that felt very good, very comfortable. It was a little windy. The standard has gone up - 1.57, in the heats! They were pushing me on the shoulder and I was like 'Guys? !'. But it's good, it brings out the best in me and I was just excited to get through this round."
Road to the Final
Hodgkinson will return to the track on Thursday afternoon when the semi-finals get under way, and as the standout name in women's 800m racing in recent years, she will be hoping to secure her place in Friday night's final. However, her bid for a third successive European title faces a stern test, with Switzerland's Audrey Werro widely regarded as her most formidable challenger for top honours. Two-time 400m hurdles world champion Femke Broeders-Bol adds yet another threat to the mix, having made the switch to 800m this season.
