Keely Hodgkinson won the BBC Sports Personality of the Year for 2024, highlighting her successful athletics career, including an Olympic gold medal in Paris. She set new records and expressed gratitude to her coaches during the ceremony, becoming the fourth consecutive woman to receive the award.

Keely Hodgkinson, an eminent figure in British athletics, was named the BBC Sports Personality of the Year for 2024 at a grand ceremony held on December 17. The 800m track star concluded a remarkable year by finally securing the gold medal at the Paris Olympics, after previously capturing silver in both the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the World Championships in 2022 and 2023. In June, Hodgkinson claimed her second successive European title and set a new personal best and national record at the London Diamond League in July, further cementing her status in the sport.

Upon receiving the prestigious award, Hodgkinson expressed her astonishment, stating, “This year has been incredible and I achieved everything I set out to do on the outdoor track. I hope you loved watching Paris.” At the event, she expressed gratitude towards her coaches Trevor Painter and Jenny Meadows, who was honored as the Coach of the Year. Hodgkinson, only 22 years old, is the fourth consecutive female athlete to receive this honor, following Mary Earps, Beth Mead, and Emma Raducanu in prior years. She outperformed notable competitors, including darts player Luke Littler and cricketer Joe Root.

Keely Hodgkinson’s recognition as the BBC Sports Personality of the Year highlights her extraordinary achievements as a middle-distance runner. Following her Olympic triumph and consistent performance in international competitions, Hodgkinson’s ascent in athletics reflects both her talent and hard work. The annual award celebrates exceptional sports personalities and Hodgkinson’s selection underscores her significant contributions to the sport and her ability to inspire others, especially young female athletes.

In summary, Keely Hodgkinson’s crowning as the BBC Sports Personality of the Year exemplifies her outstanding accomplishments in athletics during a breakthrough year. With her Olympic victory and record-setting performances, she underscores the importance of dedication and commitment in achieving excellence. Her recognition not only honors her individual achievements but also reflects the growing prominence of women in sports.

Original Source: www.runnersworld.com

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