The World Athletics U20 Championships are just over a month away but a key part of the visual identity of the meet was unveiled on Wednesday as the finisher medals were teased in a social media post by USA Track & Field and Tracktown USA.
The gold, sliver and bronze medals are inspired by “Oregon’s natural beauty and rich track and field legacy,” and will be issued to each athlete who reaches the podium at Hayward Field in Eugene from August 5 to 9.
“The intention for the design of this year’s medals was to be reflective of what the great state of Oregon is known for, while also capturing the energetic spirit of the U20 athletes and audience” Oregon 26 chief marketing officer Karen Ramming said. “The shapes, color tones, and textures bring that symbolism to life in a vibrant way. We are proud of what our creative team has designed.”
Podium athletes will also get a set of honorary pins in the same medal design that they can share with coaches, family members, friends and teammates who supported their competitive journeys.
“The medal features geometric Oregon trees and wings, which come together to represent the traditional track and field winged foot symbol,” according to a report from World Athletics. “The symbol of wings carries a double meaning in the state of Oregon, as the state motto of ‘She flies with her own wings’ was officially adopted by the state legislature in 1987.”
