Perth sprinter Lois Garland reflects on biggest achievement yet after becoming 200m national champion

Perth’s Lois Garland is reflecting on the biggest achievement of her athletics career after being crowned 200m national senior champion.

The Perth Strathtay Harrier (21) sprinted to gold - and a personal best - at the Scottish Athletics National Senior Championships in Grangemouth.

Garland’s time of 24.22 saw her cross the finish line ahead of second-placed Sarah Malone and Rebecca Matheson in third.

“Winning gold at national champs is definitely my biggest achievement so far,” Garland smiled.

“I’m pleased with my time as it’s a big outdoor PB, I knew I definitely had it in me to run faster than I had all season. I was confident after running a comfortable heat.

“After running a strong bend in the final I knew I just had to stay strong for the last 50m. It was a great competitive final against some talented sprinters.

“Winning the gold - as well as getting a PB - is always the most rewarding experience.”

The Scottish title success has provided Garland with an extra spring in her step - and she made sure to highlight the work of coach Alan Erickson.

“There was a lot of hard work and dedication from me and Alan, as it was a long up and down season,” Garland said.

“This included slight muscle pulls, adapting programming and learning what my body was able to do. The build up was definitely a great learning experience.

“Alan’s ability to adapt my whole training process over this season is one of the main reasons I was able to peak at the right time better than I have before.

“It’s shown me that the hard work and patience we have been putting in this season has paid off.

“And it has given me a great confidence to set more ambitious goals for next season.”

Former St John’s Academy student Garland has every right to set