Glasgow swimmer Katie Shanahan described the experience of competing at a home Commonwealth Games as “really special” after finishing sixth in the women’s 100m backstroke at Glasgow 2026.
Home pool advantage and championship experience
Shanahan, 22, who spent around eight years training at the Tollcross Swimming Centre, added the 100m final to a tally that already includes a silver in the 200m and previous bronzes from Birmingham 2022. She said racing in front of familiar surroundings and supportive crowds has been a highlight of the event.
“It's really, really special... I've trained in this pool for about eight years, so I know it quite well. It's been really special to train here and now race here. It's almost cool being back.”
Although the 100m was never a clear prospect for a podium finish—this particular race was won by Australia’s Iona Anderson ahead of five-time Olympic medallist Kylie Masse—Shanahan framed the result as a constructive step in a longer-term plan.
Looking ahead: learning from the final
Shanahan emphasised that the race gave her a valuable competitive outing and outlined improvements she intends to work on for the coming season, particularly in the 100m distance. She also highlighted the chance to race in the mixed relays during the past nights as an opportunity to perform in front of the home crowds.
- Event: Women’s 100m backstroke final
- Shanahan’s placing: Sixth
- Other results: Iona Anderson (gold), Kylie Masse (silver)
Medal summary at Glasgow 2026
| Swimmer | Medal | Event |
|---|---|---|
| Katie Shanahan | Silver | 200m backstroke |
| Katie Shanahan | Sixth place | 100m backstroke |
Shanahan acknowledged the role of the wider sporting infrastructure in supporting athletes at the Games, noting the continuing contribution of National Lottery funding to sport and community projects across the UK.
As she turns her attention to the next season, Shanahan said she is motivated to refine elements of her 100m performance, and relishes the prospect of returning to training and competition with the experience gained on home soil.
For local and national supporters, her mixed relay appearances and podium results across events have underscored her growing presence on the Commonwealth stage.
