Olympic 800m Champion and newly crowned BBC Sports Personality of the Year winner Keely Hodgkinson has revealed the launch of an exciting new athletics meeting, the Keely Klassic, set to take place in 2025. Taking place on Saturday 15th February at the Utilita Arena Birmingham, this unmissable event will bring together a host of Britain’s world-class track and field talent, culminating in a historic attempt on the longstanding world 800m short track record. The current world record of 1.55.82, set by Jolanda Ceplak of Slovenia on 3rd March 2002, the very day that Keely was born, gives an added incentive for Keely to attempt the record.
The Keely Klassic will be a celebration of athletics, showcasing the incredible talent in British sport and providing a unique, immersive experience for fans. The meeting will combine elite competition with an electrifying atmosphere, enhanced by a blend of music and athletics that promises to captivate spectators and athletes alike.
"I’m beyond excited to announce the Keely Klassic, my first track race since becoming Olympic Champion," said Keely Hodgkinson. "This event is all about bringing energy, passion, and top-tier athletics to the fans. It will be an unforgettable experience for everyone involved, with some of the UK’s best athletes competing, and a special focus on the 800m. I’m also thrilled to attempt to break the world record – this is an opportunity for me to take my career to the next level while giving back to the sport that has given me so much."
Keely’s unforgettable 2024 season saw her finish the year unbeaten, with the crowning achievement being her dominant performance in the Olympic final in August, where she secured the gold medal. The Keely Klassic will mark her first track race since her Olympic triumph, kicking off an exciting new chapter in her illustrious career.
The event is set to deliver world-class athletics, with marquee British track and field stars joining Keely to compete in various track and field disciplines. The standout moment of the day will be Keely’s attempt to break the world 800m record. The record stands as a monumental challenge, but one Keely is determined to take on in her home country.
"We want to make this event an experience like no other – for athletes and fans alike," added Keely. "We’re creating an atmosphere that fuses the intensity of world-class sport with the energy and excitement of live entertainment. I can’t wait to be part of this new chapter, and I’m excited for fans to witness history in the making."
Tickets are on sale now, with further details on the full event schedule and athlete line-up to be revealed in early 2025.
