Seb Coe predicts Keely Hodgkinson will become Britain’s leading middle-distance runner

In recent discussions about the future of British middle-distance running, World Athletics president Sebastian Coe expressed his confidence in 23-year-old Keely Hodgkinson’s potential to excel beyond her predecessors. Hodgkinson, an Olympic champion, is currently focused on securing 800m gold at the upcoming World Athletics Championships, which will be held in Tokyo. Coe, who has been a significant figure in athletics, previously held records and has continuously been an advocate for the sport's growth and international recognition. Alongside Hodgkinson, fellow runner Georgia Hunter Bell aims to make a name for themselves in middle-distance events as they prepare for the World Championships. Both athletes consider themselves friends and rivals who are motivated by the desire to replicate the successes of British middle-distance legends like Coe and Steve Cram. They share insights about their training routines and personal philosophies as they embark on this competitive journey. The upcoming championships in Tokyo provide a crucial platform for both athletes, as they symbolize a potential turning point in British athletics. With the spotlight on Hodgkinson, expectations are high following her recent performances that have already placed her amongst the elite of her discipline. The competition will not only test their capabilities but will also serve to inspire a new generation of middle-distance runners in the UK. As the event approaches, there are encouraging signs of a resurgence in British middle-distance running, with Hodgkinson and Bell at the forefront. Their ambitions and performances over the coming weeks could lay the groundwork for a new era of success in this domain of athletics. Coe's endorsement of Hodgkinson suggests that the future of British middle-distance running may well be in capable hands.