Editor’s note: Georgia Hunter-Bell is such an inspiring athlete. In 2026, she has won three major championships: the World Indoor Championships, the Commonwealth Games, and the European Athletics Championships. Stuart Weir wrote about all three and has seen them all, covering the events for RunBlogRun. This is Stuart Weir’s piece on Georgia Hunter-Bell and her amazing 2026!
Georgia Hunter-Bell takes gold!
The story of Georgia Hunter-Bell is probably well-known by now, but it is no less incredible for that. Gets a track scholarship to an American college. Her body can’t take the high mileage. She is constantly injured to the point that she gives up running for 5 years. Keeps fit through cycling. Tries a fun run, is impressed with her time, contacts her old coach, Trevor Painter, and wins an Olympic medal – followed by a World outdoor silver and a World Indoor gold. And then in the past two weeks the Commonwealth and European titles.
I have twice sat at a dinner table with her at a Diamond League. I have been on several UK Athletics press points with her. She is a great athlete and a thoroughly nice human being. She thrives as part of the M11 training group. She can run fast with a PR of 3:52.61, or she can run tactically and win tonight in 4:07.78.
I could write more, but I am sure you are more interested in how Georgia saw the race than how I did!
“Tonight was amazing. I really wanted to come in and get the win. I tried to be really calm and, only in the last few meters, enjoy the moment; before that, just stay calm, be logical, and race well. ” noted Georgia Hunter-Bell.
“Just getting myself in a good position throughout was always the plan. I thought if it came down to a kick, I’ve got it, so I didn’t want it to go too quick, too early. I thought it might be a 600m burn-up, which it was – and that was perfect for me. Our M11 group is such a vibe, isn’t it? Trevor and Jenny (Meadows) are like my amazing second parents; they’re the best. We’ve got such a great unit; everyone is very fun and loving but also very professional. We’ve all got big goals; we aren’t here just to make teams; we are here to win medals, including golds,” added George Hunter-Bell.
“The whole GB team is so great – a privilege to be a part of as well. It’s so great to all be together, supporting and tracking each other’s events. Seeing the mixed relay team win the gold earlier really inspired me tonight. Track is an individual sport, but being part of a team is what makes these championships so special. I love being part of a team and following everyone’s results.” commented the European Champion.
Georgia Hunter-Bell added: “I think I need a little break before even thinking about a fourth gold at World Ultimate Championships, but that is certainly the goal. Can I get four major golds in a year? I really hope so; it’s the next big challenge, but I’m going to make sure I enjoy tonight first before focusing on it. Some people have told me that I inspire both older runners and youngsters. I really love seeing people who have got jobs coming back into sport. Hopes and dreams aren’t just for kids; it’s important for adults to have them as well. Doing sport at any age is so cool, you can get such a good quality of life from it, so just go for it”.
