Keely Hodgkinson eyes world gold after ‘most challenging year’

To that extent, Hodgkinson views everything which could follow as a bonus.

The challenges of the past year have provided a sense of freedom rarely granted to Olympic champions – and which she is unlikely to have felt since her most recent visit to Tokyo thrust her into the spotlight.

She has taken the opportunity to rebuild solid foundations, with her increased strength reflected in personal bests in the gym, and says she has emerged as determined as ever.

Hodgkinson is expected to meet M11 Track Club training partner Georgia Hunter Bell in the 800m final on 21 September, following the Olympic 1500m bronze medallist’s decision to switch events after running the third-fastest time this season.

“We’re really hoping for some big things out there. It would be amazing for the M11 group if we could do a one-two, and I definitely think we’re capable of doing that,” Hodgkinson said.

“This year has definitely given me a sense of slowing down and enjoying the process, being grateful that I can run and, when I can, [making sure] I’m going to enjoy everything, give it everything and probably complain a bit less,” she joked.

“I just want to enjoy it, because there was definitely a period of time that I didn’t think I was going to be here.”