Athlete Eilish McColgan has spoken about the cultural awakening she experienced during a visit to her mother, Liz, who has relocated to Doha, Qatar. The 26-year-old runner spent two weeks training in the Gulf state, where she encountered extreme heat, religious practices, and a society in transition.
McColgan described the heat as a shock, with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit even in the evening. She was initially concerned about respecting local customs, which often require women to be fully covered, but found that the sporting environment was more relaxed. At the track, she was the only female athlete, but received encouragement from onlookers once they realised she was a professional.
The runner noted a shift towards equality in Doha, with young women showing interest in sports. She also observed the importance of religion, with daily chants and prayers. While the 4am call to prayer was unsettling, McColgan found the devotion endearing.
McColgan trained at the Aspire Academy, a world-class facility for young athletes. She highlighted the irony of multi-million pound resources being used by only 40 boys, but expressed hope that opportunities for women would grow, potentially leading to Qatar's first female global champion.
