It was so fantastic to speak to the lovely Mhairi MacLennan about her personal athletic experience, as well as discussing the petition she, Anna Gorden, and Kate Seary drew up, calling UK Athletics (UKA) to have a "zero-tolerance" approach to coaches.

We begin the episode by exploring how Mhairi discovered running and how she became successful in the athletics field. We speak about how running can be a space to channel anxiety and emotional stress, which can be releasing but also lead to a complicated and problematic relationship with the sport. Mhairi suffered numerous illnesses, including a chronic chest infection, which was very challenging both mentally and physically. It was the space and time the COVID-19 pandemic allowed from competitive running that gave Mhairi the opportunity to reflect and begin to nourish both her body and mind. We speak about the importance of prioritising our mental wellbeing, the power of therapy, and healing practices such as yoga, as means to allow us to build balance in our lives, and allow our passions to have a place in our lives, but not be controlling.

We go on to discuss the fantastic and necessary petition and letter to UKA calling for a zero tolerance policy regarding abuse towards athletes. The petition has been incredibly impactful, yielding 2000 signatures, being supported by 800 clubs, and reaching 5 countries. Mhairi is a deeply passionate advocate for the safety of athletes, and generating incentives for change in order to ensure they are protected from abuse and harassment. We additionally bring to light the importance and significance of coach-athlete relationships, not being afraid to use our voices, and the necessity to actively change policies in order to protect athletes and women in the industry.

This is a really important episode, and we hope that you enjoy!

*Disclaimer: We speak about the impacts of abuse, harassment and misconduct in this episode. This is to caution anyone who may find this triggering or upsetting.  

Websites for support through this link:

https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/guides-to-support-and-services/abuse/

Follow my Journey: https://www.instagram.com/healingwithtorzi/

Follow Mhairi: https://instagram.com/mhairimaac

CHECK OUT THE IMPACT OF THE PETITION: https://athleticsweekly.com/featured/athletes-call-zero-tolerance-life-bans-athlete-welfare-rule-breaking-coaches-1039940440/

*This episode was recorded remotely, so I apologise for any audio issues!

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