The Finnie Diaries | February Frolics!
Wow, another month over just like that - I can-neigh believe it!
In February, I found myself trotting here, there and everywhere - spreading Games magic all across Glasgow…
Schools’ Baton Relay Magic
We kicked off the month in the most unforgettable way by launching the Schools’ Baton Relay. Pupils from every single learning community in Glasgow came together to mark the occasion – we even had our own opening ceremony complete with all the Commonwealth nation flags!
Each learning community received their very own baton to take back to their schools and communities to kick-start the Glasgow 2026 activities and celebrations! I made SO many new friends, and I even met the amazing Lexy Gillies, the youngest Scottish Thistles player. She is such an inspiration!
I also had the most magical visit to see five-year-old Jessica Swannack, the winner of our recent Finnie t-shirt design competition. I have already met lots of children wearing MY face on their T-shirt, which is pretty surreal even for a unicorn! The judges said Jessica's design ‘perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the Games’ and I personally could not agree more. Jessica, you are a superstar!
Going for Gold!
I have been so busy trying out lots of our brilliant Glasgow 2026 sports. This month, I got involved in SIX sports. These unicorn muscles are still tingling!
I attended Athletics Trust Scotland’s Glasgow 2026 panel and met sporting legends Eilidh Doyle, Melanie Woods and Megan Keith. I loved hearing about their different journeys with their sport, and I was definitely a bit starstruck!
I met the amazing boxer and Glasgow 2014 gold medallist Charlie Flynn, also known as ‘the Mailman’, as the Commonwealth Sport Foundation’s charity partners were announced. Me and Charlie even had a mini boxing match… but don’t worry, only light punches!
At the All-Star Judo Junior Development Competition, I watched some fantastic throws and even gave it a go myself. Don't I look the part??
I also trotted along to Basketball, Gymnastics and Netball events.
At the 2026 Scottish National Artistic Gymnastics Championships, I collected LOTS of brilliant advice from gymnasts. My favourites were:
- Point your toes
- Stay tight in your flips
- Be brave
- Believe in yourself
- Get your basics really good before you do anything more advanced
- Show it off, don’t be afraid
I even overheard someone say, “She’s absolutely brilliant.” I pretended not to blush, but my mane definitely sparkled a little brighter.
World Gaelic Week
To celebrate World Gaelic Week, I visited the Glasgow Gaelic School with the wonderful Joy Dunlop. Joy helped translate my story into Gaelic and told the children all about the Games. It was super impressive to hear about it in Scotland's native language! I even learned to say “’S e Finnie a th’ ann!” which means “It’s Finnie!” I felt very proud of myself. Tapadh leibh to everyone who made me feel so welcome <3
Special Moments
In true Valentine's style, February was full of heart-warming moments.
I enjoyed a lovely visit to Applecross Nursing Home, where residents are getting ready to take part in Games-themed activities in the lead-up to the summer. I loved hearing about their plans and seeing how excited they are for the Games!
I also visited the Argyle Street Ash Tree with the Lord Provost of Glasgow to celebrate the launch of the European Ash Tree of the Year. Trees and unicorns both love standing tall and shining bright, so it was a very fitting event for me!
And during Valentine’s Week, I spread some extra love around the Glasgow 2026 office, handing out roses and passing on messages of appreciation. Nothing says love like a unicorn with flowers!
A Very Exciting Finale
Right at the very end of the month, I popped along to Chryston Primary School to film a VERY exciting video with some brilliant pupils, two incredible para-athletes and a very special athlete. I cannot say too much yet, but school pupils should get very excited for what is coming next month!
February may be the shortest month of the year, but it has been packed full of sparkle, smiles and of course sport!
Another month down, another month closer to the best summer ever! March, I am ready for you!