McColgan to make London Marathon debut 26 years after mother's win

The Scottish athlete said the race, which takes place on October 2, is 'special' to her family.

Eilish McColgan to make London Marathon debut 26 years after mother Liz McColgan’s win Getty Images

Scots athlete Eilish McColgan is to run her first London Marathon, 26 years after her mother Liz McColgan won the event.

McColgan makes her debut in the race after making great strides in her career in recent years, setting new British records in five kilometre, ten kilometre and ten mile races.

The 31-year-old broke Paula Radcliffe’s record at the Great Manchester Run earlier this year and is now eagerly anticipating her first competitive marathon.

“I’ve been looking forward and planning the step up to the marathon distance over the past number of years and this year’s London Marathon comes at the perfect time after a busy summer on the track,” McColgan said.

“Obviously, the London Marathon holds a very special place in the heart of my family with my mum’s win in 1996.

“I don’t actually remember the race myself, but I’ve seen the finish many times down the years. I’m now looking forward to experiencing it for myself.”

The Scot will be competing with world record holder Brigid Kosgei in London on October 2, with defending champion Joyciline Jepkosgei and British number one Charlotte Purdue also in the field.

Before competing in the marathon, McColgan’s immediate priority is the World Championships, followed by the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

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