Josh Kerr and Katarina Johnson-Thompson Lead Medal Charge

Josh Kerr and Katarina Johnson-Thompson lead Team GB’s track and field hopes for Paris 2024, confirmed after their successes at the 2023 World Championships. Kerr, a 1500m runner, and Johnson-Thompson, a heptathlete, were among the athletes who navigated the UK Athletics Championships, doubling as the Olympic trials with less pressure. Joining them in the squad are Keely Hodgkinson, aiming for her first global 800m gold after multiple silvers and Matthew Hudson-Smith, a world silver medalist in the 400m.

Molly Caudery, the world indoor pole vault champion, adds to the lineup of formidable talents. Newcomers include Louie Hinchliffe, coached by Carl Lewis and crowned British men’s 100m champion, alongside established stars like Zharnel Hughes, Dina Asher-Smith and Daryll Neita. Despite missing the trials due to injury, former world 1500m champion Jake Wightman secured his place in the 800m, as did Eilish McColgan in the 10,000m after proving her fitness.

However, criticism surfaced over UK Athletics’ selection policies, with athletes like discus thrower Jade Lally and shot putter Amelia Campbell voicing frustration after narrowly missing out. The 11-day athletics program in Paris kicks off on 1 August, with Team GB packed with medal potential and determined to build on their successes from Tokyo 2020. Key matchups include Josh Kerr against Olympic champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen and Johnson-Thompson challenging two-time Olympic gold medalist Nafi Thiam.

Hodgkinson aims to capitalize on her form, while Caudery seeks to maintain her dominance in the pole vault. The squad also reflects a blend of experience and emerging talent, including rising stars like Phoebe Gill and Charlie Dobson. With ambitions set high, Team GB looks to replicate and exceed their five-medal haul from the previous Olympics.