Mum Liz blazed a trail
Eilish McColgan says trailblazers like her mum, who became 10,000m world champion in 1991 just nine months after giving birth to her eldest daughter, have paved the way for female athletes today.
“Things have evolved since mum was dropped by Nike after they found out she was pregnant with me,” she said.
“My contract with Asics has a pregnancy clause that states I will still be supported and funded. My mum never had that reassurance.
“She took a big risk but was one of the first to come back at elite level. She became world champion after having me, which had never been done before.
“Athletes like Eilidh Doyle and Lynsey Sharp have said that, because of what she achieved, they felt they could come back after having a baby. Running is my priority right now but I’d love to have kids one day, so it’s reassuring to know I can have a family and a career, like her.”
Like her mum, McColgan also sees herself moving into coaching when her competitive career ends. She has already proven herself capable through Running Made Easy, an online coaching business she set up with her partner to advise a small roster of runners of all ages and ability.
“I see why mum loves it and would like to go into coaching once I retire.”