Paris 2024 brought a mix of triumphs and challenges for Dundee and Tayside’s athletes, as they competed on the world’s biggest stage.
While the region’s contingent was smaller than at previous international sporting events, the athletes delivered performances that resonated with determination, resilience, and true Olympic spirit.
Here is Dundee Culture's analysis of Team Tayside at the Paris Olympic Games.
Eilish McColgan was the sportsmanship star of the Games
Paris 2024 was Eilish McColgan's fourth consecutive Olympic Games, this milestone resulted in the Dundee-born runner to become the first Scottish track and field athlete to compete at four consecutive games.
Eilish has stated her intention to compete in her fifth Olympic Games in Los Angeles in the marathon event, with commentators suggesting that the Paris games will likely be the last time we see her running in a track event.
Eilish finished the race in 15th, down six places from her performance in Tokyo 2020. Although Eilish expressed disappointment, this performance comes only two months after she dropped out halfway through during the same race in the European Championships. Coming from injury and keeping in the top 15 is a brilliant feet for any athlete in the Olympics.
Eilish has a knack for bringing standout moments to international sporting competitions. The Birmingham Commonwealth Games showed her defying all odds and winning gold in the 10,000m, emulating mother Liz, but this time around, her sportsmanship was one of the standout moments on the track in the games.
She embraced fellow teammate Megan Keith who was the last to finish in the race. Eilish waited for her to finish which resulted in the two sharing a wholesome moment that certainly left many smiling and praising her for showing the true spirit of an Olympian.
Eilish has said that the Olympics might be the end of the season for many athletes, but it is the beginning of hers.
Although this is most likely the last we see of Eilish on the track in an international sporting event, we will still see her hitting the road and competing in marathons.
We've certainly not seen the last of our golden girl.
Laura Muir breaks a personal best and proves she is still world-class
Hitting the track in the Women's 1,500m race at her third Olympic Games, Laura came in as the defending silver medallist from the Tokyo games. The Dundee Hawk was pressed on whether she was up, something which she had downplayed and had expressed her intention to just enjoy being on the track.
Although the Scot didn't win a medal this time round, she did receive a personal best, the fastest she has ever run in that specific race, faster than she did when she won silver in Tokyo.
Laura Muir proved that she was still in the game, and retaining a position of being one of the top five fastest women in the world in the 1,500m.
We could yet see another appearance from this determined Scot in Los Angeles in four years time.
Mark Stewart stepped up under pressure for his team
Mark Stewart’s performance in the Men’s Madison final at Paris 2024 showcased his resilience and readiness, stepping in as a reserve after Ethan Hayter's unfortunate injury.
The Dundee cyclist, alongside teammate Ollie Wood, demonstrated remarkable teamwork under challenging circumstances, particularly in the aftermath of Wood’s crash.
Despite the short notice and the intense pressure of the competition, Stewart delivered a commendable performance, reflecting his ability to adapt and contribute at an elite level.
While the result may not have been as hoped, Stewart’s effort exemplified the grit and determination that Dundee athletes are known for, making his hometown proud.
Charlotte Watson played the role of reserve at the games
Though Charlotte Watson wasn't in the starting line-up, her readiness to step in at any moment underscored her dedication and the crucial role reserves play in team dynamics.
Watson’s journey to the Olympics is a testament to her perseverance and reflects the high calibre of athletes the region continues to produce.
At just 26, her experience in Paris positions her well for future international success, making her a source of pride and inspiration for her local community.
Charlie Aldridge is setting up for success in 2028
Charlie Aldridge, from Perth, Dundee's neighbouring city, had a brilliant performance in the Men's Mountain Biking race back at the opening of the games.
He came in at 6th place, with fellow teammate Tom Pidcock winning gold for Team GB.
Although he did not win any medals, his stellar performance in the race sets him up for potential success in 2028 if he chooses to compete for Team GB again in four years time.
Conclusion
As Paris 2024 draws to a close, it’s clear that Dundee and Tayside athletes delivered a mixed yet memorable performance. While no medals were secured, there were several standout moments that highlighted the resilience, sportsmanship, and potential of the region’s athletes.
Eilish McColgan’s remarkable achievement of competing in her fourth consecutive Olympic Games, coupled with her touching display of sportsmanship, cemented her legacy as a true Olympian.
Laura Muir’s personal best in the 1,500m, despite missing out on a medal, reaffirmed her status as one of the world’s top middle-distance runners.
Mark Stewart’s ability to step up under pressure in the Men’s Madison final, and Charlotte Watson’s unwavering readiness as a reserve player, exemplified the determination and dedication of Dundee’s athletes.
Meanwhile, Charlie Aldridge’s impressive 6th-place finish in mountain biking signals a bright future for the young talent as he eyes potential success in 2028.
Though the Games may have been bittersweet, the performances of these athletes have brought pride to Dundee and Tayside and left an enduring mark on the Olympic stage.
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