Hodgkinson Takes Silver as Werro Claims 800m Gold at Ultimate Championships
Tactical Battle Defines Thrilling Finish
Keely Hodgkinson finished second in the women’s 800 metres final at the World Athletics Ultimate Championship, held in Zurich on Saturday. The British middle-distance star was narrowly beaten by Switzerland’s Audrey Werro, who surged ahead in the closing metres to claim her first major international title. The race drew significant attention as a rematch of their recent Diamond League encounters.
Hodgkinson, the reigning Olympic and world champion, had entered the final as favourite after a strong season. Werro, however, executed a tactical race, staying close before launching a decisive sprint with 100 metres remaining. Hodgkinson responded but could not match the Swiss athlete’s finishing kick, crossing the line in 1:58.42 to Werro’s 1:58.15. The time reflected the high pace set throughout, with both athletes pushing each other to near-personal bests.
What Adjustments Might Hodgkinson Make Ahead of Indoor Season?
The race unfolded as expected, with Hodgkinson taking early control through the first lap. Werro remained within striking distance, conserving energy while monitoring the Briton’s movements. As they entered the final straight, Werro shifted to lane two and accelerated, catching Hodgkinson off guard. Commentators noted the Swiss athlete’s improved closing speed, a factor she had worked on after narrowly missing podiums earlier in the season. Hodgkinson admitted post-race that she had expected to hold her position longer but praised Werro’s execution.
Hodgkinson’s silver adds to her collection of major medals but leaves her seeking another outdoor global title. Her coaching team indicated they would review the race footage, focusing on bend running and late-race positioning. Despite the loss, she remains confident in her form, citing consistent sub-two-minute performances throughout the year. Werro, meanwhile, expressed disbelief at her victory, calling it a dream come true and dedicating the win to her family and coaches in Switzerland.
Was this Keely Hodgkinson’s first loss to Audrey Werro this year? No, Werro had previously defeated Hodgkinson in a Diamond League meet in Eugene earlier in the summer, making this their second encounter with the Swiss athlete prevailing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Keely Hodgkinson run a personal best in Zurich? No, her time of 1:58.42 was slightly outside her personal best of 1:55.88, set during her Olympic victory in Tokyo.
What does Audrey Werro’s win mean for Swiss athletics? It marks Werro’s first major international gold at senior level, positioning her as a rising star in Swiss middle-distance running and boosting morale ahead of the European indoor season.