Keely Hodgkinson chasing 'legacy' as well as Euro gold
Keely Hodgkinson’s bid to extend her European ‘legacy’ got off to a perfect start as she cruised through the opening round in Birmingham.
The Olympic 800m champion from Atherton - who is trained by Wigan duo Trevor Painter and his wife Jenny Meadows – won her heat in 1:57.28 and set the pace to such an extent that there were two national records and three further personal bests set by a field trying desperately to keep up.
Audrey Werro, who holds the world lead this year, and Dutch superstar Femke Broeders-Bol also won their heats to keep Friday’s much-anticipated showdown on track.
“That’s the fastest I’ve ever run in a heat at the European Championships,” Hodgkinson said. “Running at that pace is more like the rhythm I train at so it feels nice.
“I don’t want to overdo it and was forcing myself to slow down. I’ve got a day off now and I feel good.
“It’s always all about medals. They create legacy. This would be hopefully my fifth back-to-back medal and that’s five years of consistency.
“I am very happy to be here, the Europeans are just as important as the rest and I’m looking forward to defending my title.”
Hodgkinson is not a morning person by nature but wasted little time finding her groove.
She is well aware her event is among the most eagerly anticipated of the week but does not feel the need to prove a point as she prepares her attempt to turn the tables on Werro, who prevailed in stunning fashion when setting the third-fastest time in history at the Stockholm Diamond League in June.
“I don’t think I need to put any kind of statement out,” she said. “I back myself and I don’t need to go crazy trying to prove anything. That will come in the final hopefully. I’m happy to be in shape, healthy and ready to put together a good race.”
Hodgkinson will certainly not lack for support at the Alexander Stadium in her bid for a European hat-trick.
“Out there with the crowd, everyone supporting you, I got goosebumps and it was very motivating,” she said. “I was ready, then I heard the crowd and I was even more ready. These are the moments we train for and I’m excited to show what I can do.
“Our generation are very big on getting younger kids involved, boys and girls. Whether they want to become an Olympian or not, my message would be just to try sport.
“It gives you a lot back in life, teaches you discipline and determination. I’ve met people all over the world and have friends everywhere, which I think is really important.”
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