In a stunning display of athletic prowess, Audrey Werro solidified her status as a top contender in the women’s 800m, clinching victory at the Ultimate Championships in Budapest. The 22-year-old Swiss sensation outpaced Britain’s Olympic champion, Keely Hodgkinson, securing the $150,000 top prize with a time of 1:55.88. Hodgkinson, overcoming a season marked by injuries, took second place with a time of 1:56.26, while Femke Broeders-Bol claimed third.
Werro’s triumph was characterized by her strategic dominance from the outset, maintaining a lead that she extended in the final 300 meters. This victory marks the culmination of a remarkable season for Werro, who has emerged victorious in 14 of her 15 outdoor races, firmly establishing herself among the world’s elite in the 800m category. Hodgkinson expressed pride in her performance, highlighting her resilience in returning from a hamstring injury that had hindered her speed training.
Elsewhere on the track, the women’s 1500m saw Georgia Hunter Bell secure a second-place finish behind Poland’s Klaudia Kazimierska. Kazimierska clinched victory with a time of 3:57.55, edging out Hunter Bell by a mere 0.15 seconds. Despite the narrow loss, Hunter Bell’s strong season, which includes significant championship wins, earned her a $75,000 prize for her performance.
The women’s 100m event also featured a standout performance, as world champion Melissa Jefferson-Wooden clocked in at 10.62 seconds, marking the fastest time globally this year. Olympic champion Julien Alfred followed closely in second place with a time of 10.74 seconds, with Sha’Carri Richardson completing the podium in third at 10.76 seconds. These results reflect the high level of competition present throughout the championships, showcasing the remarkable talents of the athletes.