Perth teenager Scott lands a famous five
He breaks medal haul record at Youth Games
Perth youngster Scott McLay at the 100m freestyle medal ceremony in the Caribbean with silver winnner Kyle Abeysinghe, left, and bronze medalist Jonathan Tan Pic: Mark Kolbe/ Getty Images Fair City swimmer Scott McLay created history at the Commonwealth Youth Games.
The Perth Swim Club member returned from the competition in the Bahamas with five medals — eclipsing the previous benchmark set at the Isle of Man Games in 2011 by fellow swimmer Craig Benson.
Scott stormed to gold in the men’s 50m butterfly before winning silver in the 100m backstroke.
He followed this up with gold in the 100m freestyle and bronze with teammates in the freestyle relay, prior to victory in the 50m freestyle – sealing a golden hat-trick and a famous fifth medal overall. Previous record holder Benson went on to compete at both Commonwealth and Olympic Games.
And a delighted Scott said he was keen to follow a similar path. The former Strathallan School pupil admitted: “I can’t really believe it to be honest.
“I know the record belonged to Craig Benson and obviously I know he has gone on to achieve great things since the Youth Games. I just hope I can do the same.
“I am feeling pretty drained and tired now but it has been the experience of a lifetime for me.
“Being part of Team Scotland and having teammates from all of the sports come along to cheer me on has been really special. I am looking forward to paying it back tomorrow at their events.”
Former coach Elaine Johnston said: “Scott’s worked hard and overcome a few injuries — he’s done really well and we’re all really proud of him.
“It can be a little unpredictable swimming in an outdoor pool but he handled the conditions really well.
“It’s great for Perth and good for Strathallan to have someone winning medals. Scott trained with Duncan Scott when he was at Strathallan and trains with Stephen Milne when he’s in Perth.
“They’ve both been to the Olympics so he’s seen first-hand that hard work pays off and the commitment that’s required.
“And from Strathallan’s point of view, it’s pleasing that Duncan wasn’t a one-off.”
Scotland finished fourth in the medal table after scooping eight gold, six silver and seven bronze.
The Commonwealth Youth Games concept was created in this country as a development opportunity to give athletes under 18 years of age an international multi-sport experience.
It aims to bridge the gap between young athletes competing in their own sports specific events and the first experience of a senior multi-sport event.
The sixth edition of the event took place in the Caribbean from July 18-23 and it was the first time it was held in the group of islands in more than 50 years.
I am feeling pretty drained and tired but it has been the experience of a lifetime