Eilish McColgan joins forces with AJ Bell Great Run Series
Superstar Athlete Eilish McColgan is joining forces with the AJ Bell Great Run Series to encourage as many people as possible to get involved in running this year.
The Commonwealth Games Champion will be sharing her insights and knowledge to support all runners, whether they are considering signing up for their first-ever event, or they’re already a finish-line veteran.
Eilish said, “I’m really excited to announce I’m partnering with the AJ Bell Great Run Series to encourage as many people as possible to get active, take on a challenge and enjoy the incomparable experience of a running event in 2023.
“Running is such a huge part of my life and I know first-hand the benefits it brings – both physically and mentally.
“My first Great Run was the Junior Great North Run in Newcastle 20 years ago. I have taken part in many more over the years, they are first-class events that really bring people together.
“Running has so many positive associations, whether helping to manage our mental health, keeping us fit and healthy or as a vehicle for supporting our communities and bringing people together.
“The last few years have been challenging for everyone and we’ve seen participation levels go up and down. I hope this year sees more people than ever take up running for the first time, continue to run or come back to running after a break.”
Brendan Foster, Founder of The Great Run company said, “Eilish is an inspiration to so many people. We’re delighted to be able to share her insights and knowledge with our runners.
“The beauty of running is no matter how long you’ve been doing it, or what level you run at, the experience is universal.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming Eilish to some of our events over the next few months and giving our participants the opportunity to benefit from her support and expertise.”
Eilish has led the field at a number of Great Run events, including breaking Paula Radcliffe’s long-held European 10,000m record at the AJ Bell Great Manchester Run last year.
Her outstanding 2022 season also saw her secure a Commonwealth Gold and Silver medal for Scotland and bag a 10,000m Silver and 5,000m Bronze in the European Championships.
2023 is already off to a flying start, with Eilish recently taking Paula Radcliffe’s 10,000m British record – that had previously been held for 21 years – in a time of 30min 00.86sec at an event in California.
Off the track Eilish has been a vocal supporter of women in sport, speaking out against body shaming and online abuse and calling for wider recognition of the impact menstruation has on women’s competition.
Alongside partner Michael Rimmer, she has set up Giving Back to Track, a not-for-profit giving children in Scotland the opportunity to enjoy athletics regardless of background or cost. Giving Back to Track provides support to individuals who need it the most – whether that be covering the cost of track facilities, buying training kits or paying for club fees.
To find out more about her partnership with the AJ Bell Great Run series, access exclusive training content or to enter an event click here.
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