Before that, GB’s Paula Radcliffe held the record for almost 20 years after running 30:21 in Puerto Rico in 2003.
Kenya’s Brenda Jepchirchir won the Valencia race in 29:26.
“I’m really proud of myself. Crossing the finish line I was a bit emotional because it’s been a very long three years to get back to this level,” said McColgan, after working her way back from knee surgery.
Sweden’s Andreas Almgren set a men’s European record of 26:43 as he won in Valencia, beating his own previous best – set on the same course – by nine seconds.
Joe Wigfield equalled the British men’s record of 27:38 – matching Rory Leonard’s time from Valencia last year – while Andy Butchart set a Scottish record with 27:43, 19 seconds quicker than Callum Hawkins’ time in Valencia in 2020.
The world records for men – 26:38 by Joshua Cheptegei – and women – 28:46 by Agnes Ngetich – were also set in Valencia.
