At our Annual Advisory Board meeting, September 2011, Minister for Sport and Commonwealth Games, Shona Robison stated that she wanted Champions in Schools to provide a legacy, not just for the children but for the athletes – raising their profile and giving them a voice. We believe that Eilish’s story exemplifies that legacy.

 

Eilish is one of our most dedicated Champions in Schools, working as a role model to inspire children from two schools this year. She has participated in both of our athlete training programmes. The first, with Bill Macfarlan, teaches athletes how to present themselves and their story with confidence and positivity. The training particularly benefits those athletes likely to be interviewed by the media. The second training, run by Andy McKechnie, teaches the skills of public speaking.

 

Eilish is new to public speaking but has been asked by Aviva to speak at a CPD session for its staff. She was able to speak about motivation, goal setting and having a healthy attitude to life – all key messages shaped by her experience with the Champions in Schools programme. She informs us that her training has given her the confidence to speak out about her life story and to understand the value that her personal journey has as an inspiration to others.

 

She said, of her experience,

“Champions in Schools has helped me a lot. It has gained me the confidence to present my story and encourage people to take up a healthier lifestyle. I always used to worry about giving talks at school, but the whole process of this has showed how simple and easy it is to portray yourself with more confidence and speak freely about something you enjoy - your sport!” 

 

Eilish’s profile continues to be raised as she spoke to 2012 partner, Glaxosmithkline at the end of February.

 

Eilish McColgan:

Although still a young athlete Eilish has entered the public eye, not just as a product of her parents but as a very strong athlete in her own right. While competing in the Aviva London Grand Prix at Crystal Palace on August 6, 2011, her foot broke 500 metres from home. She still had a lap and two jumps, yet completed the race to win and set the following records.

 

Records 2011 – 3000m Steeple chase

British Universities Women’s record

UK Under 23 Women’s record

Scottish National Senior Women’s record.

Domestic Record 2011 

Aviva European Indoor Trials & UK Championships 1500m - 4th. 

Scottish University Championships 1500m - gold. 

BUCS Indoor Championships 1500m - bronze. 

BUCS Championships 2000mSC - gold. 

Scottish 3000mSC - gold.