Scottish Paralympic gold medallist aiming to recapture love for racing in London Marathon

A Paralympic gold medallist from the Scottish Borders has said she is aiming to recapture her love for racing by taking part in the London Marathon.

Samantha Kinghorn secured gold in the T53 100m in the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, as well as four silver medals in the 400m, 800m, 1500m and 4x100m universal relay.

However, the 29-year-old said she is “not a naturally competitive person” and that she puts herself under “too much pressure”.

The Borders athlete is hoping Sunday’s London marathon can recover her love for racing.

She said: “I love the training, but I put myself under too much pressure when it comes to racing.

“I get so nervous before races – it’s like my central nervous system is under attack.

“I lost the enjoyment in competing.

“This is about getting that enjoyment back – and I think London is the perfect place to do it.”

Samantha married her partner of six years, Callum, in January at Broxmouth in Dunbar.

Despite starting late due to her honeymoon in the Maldives, she has continued her training ahead of the 26 mile race – and has even had a helping hand from her husband.

She added: “I love training, so starting late has stressed me out.

“Sometimes as an athlete, it’s hard to admit you need time off.

“I’m still training twice a day, six days a week – but I needed a break.

“Getting married and being away for three weeks helped me re-evaluate and get my priorities in order.

“He’s been helping me train for the marathon, which has been a great way to spend time together.

“I dropped him when he was on the bike the other day – and that made me feel like I might be ready.”