Inspiration Close to Home: Hearts Swimmers Celebrate the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow

What an incredible week it has been watching world-class swimming at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

The atmosphere inside Tollcross International Swimming Centre has been electric, with outstanding performances, unforgettable races and inspiring moments that remind us why we all love the sport. For our swimmers, families, coaches and volunteers, it has been a fantastic opportunity to see some of the world’s best athletes competing on Scottish soil.

It has been particularly special for everyone at Hearts Swimming Club to watch former Hearts swimmers Keanna MacInnes and Holly McGill representing Scotland on the international stage. Seeing swimmers who began their journey with our club competing at a home Commonwealth Games is an inspiration to every young swimmer currently training in our squads.

A huge congratulations goes to Keanna, who enjoyed a fantastic Championships, winning silver in the Women’s 100m Butterfly, silver in the 200m Butterfly before adding a third silver medal as part of Scotland’s 4x100m Medley Relay team. Her performances were a wonderful reward for years of dedication and hard work and a proud moment for everyone connected with Hearts Swimming Club.

We were equally proud to see Holly McGill wearing the Scotland cap and competing at the highest level. Watching another former Hearts swimmer represent her country on the international stage is a fantastic achievement and demonstrates the strength of the pathway available to young swimmers who dream big and work hard. She earned a silver medal too as part of the Medley Relay team.  

The Games have also been a wonderful experience for our current swimmers. Many of our members have travelled to Glasgow to watch the racing, support Team Scotland and experience the excitement of elite competition first-hand. We hope they return inspired, motivated and believing that one day they could be standing on those same starting blocks.

Behind the scenes, we are incredibly proud that our club president and coach Elinor volunteered throughout the Championships alongside life member Jo Maguire. Major sporting events rely on hundreds of dedicated volunteers, and it is fantastic to see Hearts giving back to the sport while helping deliver such a memorable event.

The Commonwealth Games have reminded us that swimming is about so much more than medals. It is about ambition, perseverance, friendship and community. Every international swimmer once attended their first training session, raced in their first gala and dreamed of competing on the biggest stage.

For our young swimmers, seeing former Hearts athletes representing Scotland—and standing on the Commonwealth podium—is proof that those dreams really can become reality.

Congratulations to Keanna, Holly, Team Scotland and everyone who helped make Glasgow 2026 such an unforgettable celebration of our sport.