Editor’s note: Keely Hodgkinson had to withdraw from her own meet due to a hamstring injury. Showing some class, Keely Hodgkinson will be at her own meet, supporting it. That is what athletes should do when they have to withdraw from meets is show up, hang out with fans, and help build the sport. I have always liked Keely Hodgkinson, but now, I respect her. Well done, Keely Hodgkinson! You are a class act.
13/02/2025 – Birmingham, UK
Olympic 800m champion and BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024, Keely Hodgkinson, has been forced to withdraw from the Keely Klassic due to injury. Following her final training session before the event, Keely experienced some soreness in her hamstring. A scan has since revealed an issue that means she will be unable to race this weekend, raising questions about her ability to compete again this winter. However, Keely remains focused on the speediest possible recovery and is not yet prepared to give up on her ambition of racing at the World Indoor Championships in March.
This is a heartbreaking setback, especially after getting herself into the best shape of her career, however, Keely is determined to make her presence felt in Birmingham on Saturday. The Keely Klassic was never just about one race or one athlete. From the start, her vision was to help elevate British athletics, create an event that puts the spotlight on homegrown talent, and build a deeper connection with fans, especially young supporters.
Keely will still be at the Utilita Arena on Saturday, fully engaged in the event, supporting the athletes, and making sure the fans—who she was so excited to race for—have an unforgettable experience. She will be meeting supporters, interacting with young athletes, and helping to drive the electric atmosphere that she always wanted this event to create.
“I won’t lie—when I got the news this afternoon, I shed a tear. I’ve worked so hard for this moment and was in the best shape of my life. I’m absolutely gutted that I won’t be able to race for the fans, especially after so many have bought tickets to see me try and break the world record. But this event was never just about me—it was always about showcasing British talent, creating something new for the sport, and bringing more energy and entertainment to athletics. That’s something I’m committed to for the long term.
I’ll be in Birmingham on Saturday doing everything I can to make sure it’s an amazing night for the athletes and the fans. I want to help create a real festival atmosphere, engage with as many young people as possible, and hopefully inspire the next generation to fall in love with track and field. I can’t wait to see some incredible performances, and I’ll be cheering on every athlete who steps on the track.”
The Keely Klassic will go ahead as planned, with some of the UK’s best athletes attempting national records and putting on world-class performances. The event will be broadcast live on BBC iPlayer and streamed internationally, ensuring fans at home can be part of what promises to be a thrilling night for British athletics.