Keely Hodgkinson's European Championships Showdown: No Medals for the Winner

Keely Hodgkinson will face off against top rivals in the European Championships, but the winner won't receive a medal in the new Ultimate Championship event.

What's at Stake in the Women's 800m?

The women's 800m event is one of the most highly anticipated races at the European Championships, with Keely Hodgkinson, Audrey Werro, and Femke Broeders-Bol set to compete. Werro has been in incredible form, clocking a blistering 1:53.80 to win at the Paris Diamond League. This could potentially break the European Championships record, which currently stands at 1:53.28 set by Jarmila Kratochvilova in 1983.

Empty Seats at the European Championships: A Lack of Marketing?

Keely Hodgkinson has suggested that the empty seats at the European Athletics Championships were caused by a lack of marketing and awareness. There were about 10,000 unclaimed seats in each of the opening three sessions, including even Amy Hunt's victory in the 100 meters, Jakob Ingebrigtsen's 5,000m triumph, and Hodgkinson's 800m heat. Ticket prices have been blamed, but Hodgkinson pinpointed how many people did not even know that the event was taking place.

Top Performers to Receive 50,000 Euro Bonus

Top performers at the European Championships will each receive a 50,000 euro bonus. This is a significant incentive for athletes to perform well in the competition.

Key Takeaways

• Keely Hodgkinson will face off against top rivals in the European Championships.
• The winner of the Ultimate Championship event won't receive a medal.
• Audrey Werro has been in incredible form, clocking a blistering 1:53.80 to win at the Paris Diamond League.
• There were about 10,000 unclaimed seats in each of the opening three sessions at the European Championships.
• Top performers at the European Championships will each receive a 50,000 euro bonus.

Event Details

The European Championships will take place from August 9 to 14 in Birmingham. The Ultimate Championship event will take place from September 11 to 13 in Budapest.