Keely Hodgkinson has responded to Michael Johnson’s criticism by clarifying that the Keely Klassic was not always about her participation.
Keely Hodgkinson has given a mature response to Michael Johnson following his criticism of her track league, Keely Klassic.
The reigning Olympic 800m champion was required to be the star of the event but had to withdraw due to an injury, a move that attracted a lot of criticism, with one coming from four-time Olympic champion Michael Johnson.
Upon the news that she would not be competing, Michael Johnson explained that it was a huge risk centring the event around one athlete, Keely Hodgkinson.
After his disappointing exit from the Paris Olympics, Ferdinand Omanyala questioned and cursed God but later found peace after what he describes as receiving a divine message.
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He explained that the event would have included more stars and promise a series of rivalries other than focusing solely on the Olympic champion who did not even end up competing.
“The current structure of the sport doesn’t work. You can’t build around one star. It’s not compelling. Competition is,” Michael Johnson said.
“And it’s too big a risk and broadcasters know it. Don’t believe me? Unfortunately, Keely sustained an injury yesterday so is no longer competing in the event.”
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However, at the time, Keely Hodgkinson chose to remain silent and only focus on recovering ahead of the outdoor season.
In a recent interview with the Independent, the Briton 800m star revealed that the idea to have the event named like that was always there and they would not change that.
She added that the main aim was to bring something fresh in track and field and she was also chasing a legacy of her own and it was not solely about her competing.
“I think people got confused because my name was in the title. It was always going to be called that, regardless of whether I ran or not,” Keely Hodgkinson said.
“And for us, it was more about bringing something new and trying to build a legacy with something that we hope goes on longer than when I’m retired.
“It was never just about me competing. Unfortunately, injuries happened, but it was still a great day and we saw some great performances. I think we had three British records, so, yes, I think it was a success.”
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Despite the criticism, Keely Hodgkinson remains steadfast in her vision for the Keely Klassic, emphasising that the event was never just about her but about creating a lasting legacy.
