British long-distance champion Eilish McColgan leads a life defined by high-intensity training and the constant pursuit of a personal best. From record-breaking runs on the track to the mental load of elite competition, her routine is a masterclass in discipline. Yet, for Eilish, staying grounded is about more than just the miles; it’s about the small rituals that clear her mind. When running feels like a "job," she turns to reading, music, and unplugging from the digital world to find her calm before a big race.

That mental strength has been forged through significant setbacks. Eilish is no stranger to the grit required for a comeback, having navigated major surgeries, including a broken foot in 2011 that left her with seven screws and a metal plate. These injuries taught her the art of patience and perspective. "With age and experience, it gets easier to rationalise setbacks," she explains, noting that maturity has allowed her to gain a healthier perspective on failure and respond better mentally when things don't go to plan.

For Eilish, self-expression is a key part of her confidence on the track. She views makeup, hair, and nails not as a distraction from sport, but as an extension of her personality. Whether it was her iconic tartan hair bubble at the Commonwealth Games or a fresh set of gel nails, these styling choices are her way of staying true to herself. "I prefer to have my makeup and nails done even when training or racing," she says, believing that as she has matured, she has felt less need to conform and more freedom to accept herself exactly as she is.

This philosophy is the heartbeat of her collaboration with Mylee on a limited-edition range of gel nail wraps. Designed for those who live life at a fast pace, these wraps offer an athlete-approved, durable manicure that withstands the toughest training sessions. For Eilish, the ever-changing colours and designs are a visual representation of how she feels in the moment.

Looking ahead, Eilish remains focused on the next starting line, carrying the belief that elite performance and personal style aren't mutually exclusive. Her journey proves that you can be one of the toughest athletes in the world while still embracing the small details that make you feel like you. As Eilish puts it: if a pop of colour builds your confidence, go for it.