McColgan Eyes Marathon Debut Goals
Debut After Setbacks
Eilish McColgan is eager to begin her marathon journey at the London Marathon this coming week, having faced a setback last year due to a knee injury that derailed her initial plans. The accomplished 10,000m Commonwealth Games champion is now ready to embrace the challenge of the iconic 26.2-mile race.
Setting Ambitious Goals
McColgan, 34, has set her sights on breaking the family record held by her mother, Liz McColgan, who completed the race in 2:26:52. Additionally, she aims to surpass the current Scottish record of 2:26:40. Recognizing the remarkable talent in this year's elite women’s field, which includes world record holder Ruth Chepngetich and Olympic champion Sifan Hassan, McColgan is aware of the high stakes.
A Cautious Approach
Despite past confidence leading to her 2023 injury, she is now adopting a more measured approach as she prepares for her first marathon. McColgan explicitly states that while she would like to achieve one of the fastest debut times in British history, her priority is to focus on experiencing the race without mishaps, such as issues with hydration or fueling.
Inspired by the Competition
Total respect for her competitors, including Hassan and defending champion Peres Jepchirchir, fuels McColgan’s ambition. She believes that the presence of these elite runners not only elevates the competition but also inspires other British women to aim for breaking the long-standing 2:20 barrier in the marathon.
Looking Ahead
With her debut on the horizon, McColgan is excited yet cautious. She hopes this race serves as a critical step towards achieving her long-term goals, particularly the aspiration to secure her place among the best in marathon history.
