Is Keely Hodgkinson the clear favorite in this year's sports personality of the year?

In 2024, the BBC revealed the shortlist for the Sports Personality of the Year award as anticipation built for the annual ceremony. Notably, Keely Hodgkinson, an Olympic champion, emerged as a frontrunner after her remarkable performances, including a gold medal win in the 800 metres at the Olympic Games held in Paris. The young athlete continued to impress throughout the year by setting a new British record of one minute 54.61 seconds, establishing her as the sixth fastest woman in history for the distance. This accolade follows a series of outstanding achievements, notably her victory at the European Championships, which has significantly raised her profile in British athletics. Alongside Hodgkinson, the shortlist comprises five other athletes, each with their unique accomplishments in their respective sports. Alex Yee, another Olympic gold medalist, captured gold in the triathlon and significantly contributed to a bronze medal in the team event at the Olympics. His performance underscored his talent and resilience, particularly as he came from behind during the triathlon's final stages to secure victory. Dame Sarah Storey continued her dominance in cycling by winning gold medals at her fifth consecutive Paralympics, showcasing her dedication and athleticism as she targets her next competitive goals. In addition, Jude Bellingham, at only 21 years of age, had a stellar debut season with Real Madrid, helping the team clinch both the LaLiga and Champions League titles. His excellent performance earned him third place in the prestigious Ballon d'Or standings, marking a significant milestone for an English player. Meanwhile, Joe Root, an accomplished cricketer for England, achieved an impressive milestone by becoming England's highest-ever Test run-scorer, breaking the record previously held by Sir Alastair Cook. His performance has been invaluable for the national team, further emphasizing his status in the cricketing world. Lastly, Luke Littler, a sensational young dart player, has garnered considerable media attention as he competes for the Young Sports Personality of the Year. His achievements include reaching the finals of the PDC World Championship at the young age of 17. His journey in the sport has seen a rise in popularity, demonstrating the potential for young athletes to inspire future generations. The winner will be decided through public voting during the live show scheduled for December 17 in Salford, which promises an exciting conclusion to the sporting year in British athletics and beyond.