Stephen Mackenzie Returns to Ullapool, Regains Best Form — image accompanying Athletics Weekly's report. Image accompanying Athletics Weekly’s report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
Stephen Mackenzie, the Scottish long jump record-holder, struggled in the US but found his form again in Ullapool. He broke the long-standing record with 8.15m in Birmingham. Mackenzie's journey included a sports scholarship in Oklahoma, but injuries and mental struggles led him back.
Returning to Ullapool in 2021, Mackenzie enrolled in a Quantity Surveying course in Edinburgh. He credits his former coach, John Scott, for helping him regain his mental strength. Now, under coach Brian Gordon, Mackenzie focuses on mental resilience and consistency. Read more racing coverage.
Mackenzie emphasizes the importance of mental toughness and consistency in achieving top performances. Ullapool's quiet environment and accessible facilities have also contributed to his success. For Mackenzie, there is truly no place like home. Related: Niko Nozawa Sets New Meet Record at National High School Championships.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Athletics Weekly. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
Reader questions
Questions about this report
What should runners know about Stephen Mackenzie Returns to Ullapool, Regains Best Form?
After a challenging period in the US, the Scottish long jumper found success back home. Stephen Mackenzie, the Scottish long jump record-holder, struggled in the US but found his form again in Ullapool. He broke the long-standing record with 8.15m in Birmingham. Mackenzie's journey included a sports scholarship in Oklahoma, but injuries and mental struggles led him back.
When did Runner World publish this racing brief?
Runner World published this brief on August 5, 2026. The underlying Athletics Weekly report was dated August 5, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from Athletics Weekly. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
THE WEEKLY BRIEFING
Start the week a step ahead.
A concise edit of the running stories worth knowing, sent every Monday.
