In a stunning display of athletic prowess, Audrey Werro emerged victorious in the women’s 800m at the Ultimate Championships in Budapest, surpassing Britain’s Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson to seize the $150,000 top prize. The Swiss runner, aged 22, completed the race in an impressive 1:55.88, while Hodgkinson claimed second place with a time of 1:56.26. Femke Broeders-Bol rounded out the top three. Werro’s strategy was clear from the outset as she took an early lead and maintained her dominance, accelerating decisively over the final 300 meters. This win not only marks a triumphant end to her season but also solidifies her status as a formidable force in the 800m discipline, having secured victories in 14 out of her 15 outdoor races this year.
Despite facing challenges this season, Hodgkinson expressed pride in her performance, particularly after recovering from a hamstring injury that hampered her ability to undergo essential speed training. Her resilience and determination were evident as she managed to secure a commendable second place against strong competition.
Elsewhere in the championships, the women’s 1500m saw a thrilling contest with Poland’s Klaudia Kazimierska taking the top spot. She crossed the finish line in 3:57.55, just 0.15 seconds ahead of Georgia Hunter Bell. Despite finishing second, Hunter Bell had an outstanding season, earning $75,000 for her efforts and adding another accolade to her list of major championship victories.
The event also highlighted a standout performance in the women’s 100m, where Melissa Jefferson-Wooden claimed victory with a world-leading time of 10.62 seconds. Her remarkable speed left Olympic champion Julien Alfred trailing in second place at 10.74 seconds, while Sha’Carri Richardson secured third with a time of 10.76 seconds.