Keely Hodgkinson — out of sight

Here is the unseen. Here — it could be said — is where the medals are won.

At times, training can feel like a monotonous existence — devoid of colour and triumph. Gratification reduced down to the straightforward simplicity of another session done. And yet, if we permit ourselves a moment of reflection, the truth is often the reverse. That the richness of this B-roll — not just the victories but also the times we fell short — is the substance that defines us all uniquely as athletes in our own right. Often out of sight — never out of mind.

"Looking back, I think I use both the good and the bad for different things. So my memories of a bad race, I would hopefully learn from it and know what not to do in moments when I may have panicked. But the good memories you can also use to motivate yourself by wanting to repeat those scenarios again." — Keely Hodgkinson.

Less than 1 minute

Jun 12, 2024

Here — in this place we all know, no matter the level — there is no flashing of cameras, no spotlights, and no post-race interviews. Here, there is no glitz or glamor. Here, there are no fans, no flags, and no anthems. Here, there is no nerves or adrenaline. Here, there is no competition — except with ourselves. Here, there is no glory.

“The first moment that was pivotal for me in my career was when I was around 12 years old. I was really nervous going into a country school champs and I didnt want to run — really really didn't want to run — and my dad actually bribed me with a pair of shoes. He said we'd go to and get me a pair of shoes if I ran. But I do believe that if he hadn't forced me out of my comfort zone that day, that I would have shied away from something.”

“For me, my life outside of sport has helped me to realise that I'm more than just an athlete and I do have other interests as well that keep me just as entertained as athletics does."