Keely Hodgkinson Breaks British 800m Record & Eyes World Record

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Keely Hodgkinson shattered the British 800m record at the UK Athletics Indoor Championships, clocking a time of 1:56.33 - the third-fastest time in history and the quickest in 24 years. Her decision to compete only in the heats, prioritizing qualification for the World Indoor Championships and a subsequent race in France, highlights a growing trend of strategic racing among athletes.

Why it matters

Hodgkinson's record-breaking performance and her stated ambition to challenge the 800m world record suggest that the current record may be vulnerable. The increasing depth of talent in women's middle-distance running, combined with advancements in training and recovery, creates a fertile environment for record-breaking performances.

The details

Hodgkinson's achievement, the third-fastest time in history and the quickest in 24 years, raises questions about the future of the sport and the potential for even faster times. Her decision to compete only in the heats, prioritizing qualification for the World Indoor Championships and a subsequent race in France, highlights a growing trend of strategic racing. Athletes are increasingly tailoring their competition schedules to peak for major championships, utilizing smaller meets for specific training goals. This approach, as Hodgkinson demonstrated, can lead to exceptional performances when athletes are fresh and focused.

• Hodgkinson shattered the British 800m record at the UK Athletics Indoor Championships on February 15, 2026.
• The World Indoor Championships are being held in Poland from March 20-22, 2026.
• Hodgkinson has a race scheduled in France shortly after the UK Athletics Indoor Championships.

What’s next

Hodgkinson will compete in the World Indoor Championships in Poland from March 20-22, 2026, where she will have the opportunity to further challenge the 800m world record.