Keely Hodgkinson Debuts Nike Catsuit, Wins $50,000 at Athlos Meet
Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson showcased a new Nike catsuit during her 800-meter victory at the inaugural Athlos meet in London, securing a significant prize.
Keely Hodgkinson impressed spectators with an all-black Nike catsuit as she won the 800-meter race and claimed a $50,000 prize at the Athlos meet in London.
The middle-distance runner's ensemble covered her from palms to ankles, featuring a cutout for her ponytail and an open back. Hodgkinson admitted to feeling "a little nervous" to debut the speedsuit, which was accessorized with iridescent spikes, but felt the all-female Athlos event was the perfect venue.
The Athlos meet, which made its international debut at the StoneX Stadium, incorporates elements of fashion, music, and digital engagement into its events. Hodgkinson walked out to music and pyrotechnics before competing in sunglasses and the distinctive catsuit. She finished the 800-meter race in one minute 56.40 seconds, more than two seconds ahead of her nearest competitor.
"Honestly this has been like a year in the making with all the adjustments and fittings," Hodgkinson stated. "It was a really fun process with the Nike innovation team. I think it's a mixture of fashion, speed and science all coming together, for maybe the future of athletics potentially."
Hodgkinson mentioned that the outfit passed legal standards and that while aerodynamics were key, she insisted on keeping her hair out. "The science was like technically with the air drag you're slower with your hair out, but I was like, 'that's a non-negotiable. My hair is staying out.' I'm very much 'look good, feel good' [and that] mental and physical balance."
She drew inspiration from past athletes, noting Cathy Freeman's similar styles. "It was really cool to draw inspiration from the past and make it your own as well. The style was a big thing for me," Hodgkinson explained. "I wanted to be comfortable but I wanted to feel a little bit sexy, the back's open and that makes it feel really cool. It feels like I'm wearing nothing to be honest."
The 24-year-old shared that she trained in the catsuit in 37-degree heat in South Africa and found it comfortable.
Following her victory, Hodgkinson received a portion of the meet's total prize pot of $1,057,000. Her fashion-forward choice comes amidst ongoing discussions about women's sportswear, with athletes like Naomi Osaka also making headlines for their distinct on-court attire.