British middle-distance star on her journey to the French capital after a stellar year of setting personal bests and winning titles
Georgia Bell’s journey comes full circle as she prepares for her Olympic debut in Paris, the city where she was born 30 years ago.
The European silver medallist will hit the track for the women’s 1500m tomorrow (August 5) at 10:05 CET where she will strive to advance to the semi-finals.
But her path back to Paris wasn’t always clear. As the English Schools 800m champion in 2008, Bell’s future seemed bright, but injuries during her time at the University of California caused her to lose passion for the sport. Inspired by the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, she decided to give running another chance, and everything started to fall into place.
“If anyone can take anything from my unconventional route it is that you can get back to something you love, it is never too late,” says Bell. “When I quit all those years ago, it was unfinished business.
“I was born in Paris so it feels like it’s meant to be, it’s a full circle moment. It’s so random that I was born there 30 years ago, it’s so random that I got back into track and it’s so random that I’ve made it to the Olympics.
“I moved back to the UK when I was two years old so I don’t remember it. I am very much British but my passport does say I’m born in Paris. It’s cool but it’d be cooler if I spoke French.”
Georgia Bell (Getty)
Balancing a full-time job in cyber security, Bell found a deep passion not only for running but also for cycling. Her dedication paid off when she won the women’s age-group title at the 2023 World Duathlon Championships.
This year, shifting her focus back to the track, Bell has been unstoppable in the 1500m, shattering her personal bests with remarkable performances. She kicked off the year as the British 1500m Indoor Champion and went on to finish fourth at the World Indoor Championships in Glasgow, clocking 4:03.47.
She continued her stellar form by setting a new personal best of 3:56.54 at the Paris Diamond League in July – in the city where she hopes to continue her streak. Her first place finish at the British Championships in Manchester secured her spot on the Olympic team.
Despite her track success, Bell hasn’t abandoned the cycling as she maintains a rigorous weekly mileage, crediting it with helping her stay injury free.
“In an Olympic year, you have to put all your eggs in that basket if you want to make Paris but in the future I will go back to doing…
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