Manchester Olympian scoops BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024

Manchester's own Keely Hodgkinson has been crowned BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024, capping a historic season with Olympic gold and national pride.

Manchester is beaming with pride as Keely Hodgkinson, the 22-year-old middle-distance sensation from Atherton, has been crowned BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024.

In a remarkable season, Keely not only achieved her lifelong dream of Olympic gold but has now been recognised as Britain’s most celebrated sportsperson.

Keely Hodgkinson BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024

Hodgkinson’s crowning moment came this summer at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she stormed to victory in the 800m final, finally ending her wait for a global title.

This triumph followed back-to-back World Championship silver medals and a silver at her Olympic debut in Tokyo 2021.

“This year has been incredible, and I achieved everything I set out to do on the outdoor track,” Hodgkinson told BBC One during her acceptance speech.

“I hope you loved watching Paris as much as I loved being there.”

Keely’s dominance didn’t stop there. She retained her European 800m crown in Rome and shattered her own British record at the London Diamond League, clocking a staggering 1:54.61 to become the sixth-fastest woman in history.

Manchester’s star shines bright

Born and raised in Atherton, Greater Manchester, Keely’s journey to the top has been nothing short of inspirational. She honed her craft under the expert guidance of her coaches, Trevor Painter and Jenny Meadows—both of whom were also honoured on the night with the prestigious Coach of the Year award.

“This is not just my achievement but a reflection of the amazing team behind me,” Keely said, expressing gratitude towards her coaches and the people of Greater Manchester who have supported her along the way.

A star among stars

Hodgkinson triumphed in a competitive shortlist that included darts prodigy Luke Littler (runner-up), England cricketing icon Joe Root (third), Paralympian Sarah Storey, triathlete Alex Yee and footballer Jude Bellingham.

Her win also continues a trend of female athletes dominating the award, following Mary Earps (2023), Beth Mead (2022), and Emma Raducanu (2021).

Keely’s victory cements her legacy as a trailblazer for women in sport and a source of immense pride for Manchester.

Reflecting on her historic year, Keely remained humble: “I am in a bit of shock. I’m more excited for my coach because I wouldn’t be here without his guidance.”

She dedicated her award to her support team and fans, who’ve followed her journey from the local tracks of Leigh to the world’s biggest sporting stage.

Manchester’s pride

For a city known for producing legends in sport, Keely Hodgkinson’s achievement is another chapter in Manchester’s illustrious history.

She has shown the world what the determination, grit, and passion of someone from Greater Manchester can achieve.

Congratulations to Keely Hodgkinson—our Olympic champion, record-breaker, and now, BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024!

You can find out more about the BBC Sports Personality of the Year by clicking here

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It was first published on 18 December 2024 and is subject to be updated from time to time. Please refresh or return to see the latest version.

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