In a stunning display of speed and tenacity, Audrey Werro clinched victory in the women’s 800m at the Ultimate Championships in Budapest, securing a $150,000 first prize. The Swiss athlete, aged 22, clocked in at 1:55.88, outperforming Britain’s Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson, who finished second with a time of 1:56.26. Femke Broeders-Bol completed the podium in third place. From the start, Werro asserted her dominance, maintaining a lead that she extended with a powerful burst over the final 300 meters. This win marks the pinnacle of a remarkable season for Werro, who has triumphed in 14 out of 15 outdoor races, solidifying her status as a leading force in the 800m discipline.
Keely Hodgkinson, despite facing setbacks from injuries throughout the season, expressed pride in her performance. The British runner has been dealing with a hamstring injury, which has hampered her ability to fully engage in speed training necessary for competing against Werro. Nevertheless, her second-place finish underscores her resilience and determination as she returns to form.
In another competitive race, Georgia Hunter Bell placed second in the women’s 1500m, trailing closely behind Poland’s Klaudia Kazimierska. Kazimierska claimed victory with a time of 3:57.55, narrowly edging out Hunter Bell by just 0.15 seconds. For her efforts, Hunter Bell was awarded $75,000, adding to a season highlighted by significant championship successes.
The women’s 100m event also witnessed an outstanding performance. World champion Melissa Jefferson-Wooden sprinted to victory, recording a world-leading time of 10.62 seconds. The Olympic champion Julien Alfred followed in second place with a time of 10.74 seconds, while Sha’Carri Richardson secured third with a time of 10.76 seconds.