Keely Hodgkinson withdraws from Keely Klassic due to injury

Keely Hodgkinson, the Olympic 800m champion, has withdrawn from her inaugural event, the 'Keely Klassic', due to a hamstring injury sustained just before the competition. The 22-year-old was aiming to break the longstanding indoor 800m world record but expressed deep disappointment, sharing that she was in the best shape of her life prior to the injury. Despite her absence, Hodgkinson plans to attend the event to support her fellow athletes and maintain the spirit of the occasion, emphasizing that the event is about more than just her performance. The meet will proceed as scheduled with other elite competitors participating. Hodgkinson remains hopeful for a return in time for the World Indoor Championships in March, although her injury raises concerns about her immediate competitive future. The Keely Klassic aims to celebrate British talent and inspire the next generation of athletes, a mission Hodgkinson is committed to continuing.