Jemma makes Women’s 800m Euro semi as Scots compete in Birmingham

Tuesday 11th August 2026

Photos by Sam Mellish/British Athletics

Jemma Reekie has progressed to the Women’s 800m semi-finals at the European Champs in Birmingham.

But Erin Wallace missed out after racing in the heats on Tuesday lunchtime at the Alexander Stadium.

It was a solid run from Jemma at 1:58.45 to take fourth in her race and qualify for Thursday’s semi via one of the non-automatic places.

Shortly before that, Erin was fifth in her race at 2:01.10 and the Giffnock North AC athlete duly confirmed her season is now ended.

Jemma said: ‘I was expecting the race to be quick, I was happier for it to be quick than for it to be slow. I think I ran the race well tactically. I just wasn’t able to access what I know I am capable of accessing down the home straight.

‘Preparation has been going well. The Commonwealth Games were a disappointment and it was a quick turnaround between the two championships, but I am happy where I am at.’

Erin said: ‘I was just trying to run a good race tactically because it’s something I’ve not been as great at in the past. I put my best foot forward in what I had today and it just wasn’t enough.

‘This season has been frustrating at times. I’ve had the form there but just not been able to deliver on what I’m capable of but I’m definitely going to look back and see what I can do next year to change that.’

On Monday night, Sarah Tait raced in the 3000m steeplechase heats.

The Lasswade AAC athlete has had a tough year since being injured at the World Champs last year and in Birmingham duly placed 12^th in 9:55.17.

‘I am disappointed, I wanted to come here and prove something to myself,’ said Sarah.

‘After the World Champs in Tokyo I had six months off running and only go back to training around February, March time.

‘The goal for this season was to get on the start line for two home championships (Commonwealth games and European championships). Maybe in I have been a bit greedy. I probably should have taken a break but, these are lessons you have to learn. I look forwards to next year.’

Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Stephen Mackenzie missed out on a final place in the Men’s Long Jump – with his 7.85m best leap placing 15 with the top 12 to progress.

‘It was great to get out there alongside all those great jumpers, but obviously disappointed I didn’t make the cut today.

‘I had a lot of confidence coming in off a bronze medal in Glasgow. I really thought I could leave my mark early on with an 8m one but it wasn’t to be.’