Team GB athlete links up with Sports Direct and Nike in Manchester

Sports Direct, a leading international retailer of sports and fitness footwear, clothing, and equipment, partnered with global sportswear brand Nike to bring an elite running experience to Manchester.

Setting a new standard for running in the city, Sports Direct and Nike welcomed Olympic 800m gold medalist Keely Hodgkinson, who won gold in 2024 in France and silver in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Keely led seven of Manchester’s run clubs through a day of training at the iconic SportCity – the very track where Keely’s journey to Olympic glory began. Living in Manchester, she trained for a time at Leigh Harriers.

To kick off the day, the community got together for a Q&A session, where Keely reflected on her journey to gold at Paris 2024 and shared advice on warm-ups, pacing, and the mindset needed to excel.

The Olympian was joined by Nike Global Performance trainer Courtney Fearon, whose dynamic, athlete-inspired approach promises to motivate runners of all abilities. The event culminated in a series of 800m running heats, with guests laced up in Nike’s Vomero 18 running shoe.

Michael Murray, CEO of Frasers Group, commented, “This is what Sports Direct is all about – creating moments that connect communities through sport. Since opening our Manchester flagship two years ago, the city has become central to our vision. Partnering with Nike and Keely Hodgkinson brings that to life in a real, meaningful way – beyond the store and into the community.”

This day combines Sports Direct, Nike, and Keely’s commitment to community. The partnership allows runners to create new connections, push limits, and celebrate Manchester’s running culture.