I've found comfort in spirituality... it's helped me through some tough times

Keely Hodgkinson on her difficult year

- - BY ROSS KANIUK

OLYMPIC golden girl Keely Hodgkinson has had a year plagued by disappointment but she is fast turning into a champ when it comes to her approach to life.

Becoming more spiritual has helped her take problems in her stride.

The running star, 23, said: "This past year has been the most insane year of my life in every way possible, personally, on and off the track.

"I had a lot of growth. I feel like a different person, even though there's been a lot of troubles and hardship.

"I've cried a lot this year - but I've also laughed just as much.

"One good thing would happen, like I went to get my MBE, then two days later I pulled my hamstring.

"This is probably the first year I can look back it sounds insane - where I feel proud of myself. Against all odds I kept pushing through.

"I think I've maybe just got a deeper understanding of life." Her more chilled approach meant that after getting a bronze medal - a comedown from her 2024 Olympic gold in the 800 metres at last month's World Championships in Tokyo, instead of brooding over what could have been, she headed straight to a karaoke bar with loved ones.