Megan Keith considers switch to track 10,000m after Olympic qualifying success

Megan Keith, the European Under-23 cross country and 5,000m gold medallist, has surprised herself by excelling in the track 10,000m event, despite initially finding it “pretty boring.” In her first 10,000m race, the 21-year-old from Inverness clocked an impressive 30 minutes 36.84 in California, meeting the Olympic qualifying standard.

Keith, who is now open to a potential switch to the 10,000m event, admitted, “I think it probably is up my street. The only times we have discussed it is when I have told my coach or my training partners or my family that I will never be running one.” She added, “But time passes and here I am, so I wouldn’t be surprised if it is where my strengths lie. But I am still getting to grips with how mundane it is.”

After her remarkable performance, Keith now ranks fourth on the UK all-time list for the 10,000m event, behind notable names like Jessica Warner-Judd, Paula Radcliffe, and fellow Scot Eilish McColgan. Despite her achievements, Keith remains humble, stating, “I do not see myself in their realms at all. But it is very special being mentioned like that.”

While achieving the Olympic qualifying standard is a significant milestone, Keith acknowledges that securing a spot in the Team GB squad for Paris is not guaranteed. She will need to perform well at the British trials in May, where a top-two finish could secure her a place. With Commonwealth Games gold medallist McColgan being the only other UK athlete with the required time, Keith is optimistic about her chances.

As she continues to push herself in the sport, Keith remains focused on her goals and is determined to make the most of the opportunities that come her way. With her talent and dedication, she is certainly one to watch in the world of athletics.