Summer Shaw returns to McDonald's job after winning Commonwealth Games bronze

Summer Shaw, who won Scotland’s first judo medal at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, has returned to her part-time job at McDonald’s. Shaw secured a bronze medal in the women’s 48kg event, fulfilling a dream she has held since age eight.

A biology student, Shaw balances her athletic career with work and studies. She noted that while her employers have been flexible with her schedule, finding such accommodating part-time work can be difficult.

Shaw highlighted the financial realities of competing in sports like judo, where reaching the top level does not guarantee financial stability. While she receives an Athlete Performance Award (APA) from UK Sport and the National Lottery to assist with living and training costs, she noted that some competition expenses must still be paid out of pocket.