Sarah Tait: From McColgan's Mentee to Olympic Aspirations

Breaking Records and Setting Goals

Scottish track athlete Sarah Tait has made significant strides in her career, breaking the 12-year Scottish record in the 3000m steeplechase held by her mentor, Eilish McColgan. This remarkable achievement occurred at the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) competition in Oregon last month. Her performance not only earned her a spot on the Great Britain team for the European Athletics Team Championships but also saw her finish second in her international debut.

Olympic Dreams

Tait, who honed her skills at Lasswade Athletics Club but is currently based in the United States, has her sights set on the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and her first Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028. Reflecting on her journey, Tait shared, "I went to watch some of my teammates in Paris last year and I thought it was absolutely amazing what they were doing. I would love to be there one day, but I didn't think quite how realistic it would be. Just this year, I realized I am actually really close. In a few years' time, I definitely believe that will be possible."

Mentorship and Support

Tait credits her newfound confidence and success to her training group in the US and her training partners. She was the first recipient of McColgan's 'Giving Back to Track' program, established three years ago to support young women in athletics. "Eilish has supported and mentored me for a good few years now. She always said she thought I would be the one to take her record down. She really took me under her wing, and I am still in touch with her now. She always sends me a congratulations message and is always there to support me. I am really grateful for everything she has done for me," Tait revealed.

Looking Ahead

Having recently completed her studies at West Virginia University, Tait is still determining her base as she prepares for next summer's Commonwealth Games, which she considers her priority. She recalls being inspired as a 13-year-old watching the athletics at Hampden Park during the 2014 Commonwealth Games. "I just can't wait to hopefully be a part of it and be part of inspiring the next generation because that was me sitting in the stands watching. So, I really hope that can be me on the start line this time," she added.