Are you organising a running event and want to reward the participants?
Medals are one of the best ways to recognise not only participation in the race, but also the effort and hours of training required to get there.
We understand that choosing the right material or shape for the medals can feel overwhelming, but don't worry. At MedalStudio, we have years of experience in creating custom medals, so you've come to the right place.
In this article, we’ll explain the following four tips to make your running event medals truly memorable:
- Customise the medals
- Experiment with shapes
- Use the right materials
- Use a striking ribbon
Let's get started!
#1 Customise the Medals
If you want to ensure that participants never forget your running event, we recommend customising the medals.
There are different ways to personalise them, but we suggest considering the following factors:
Event Location
Is your event taking place in a major city like London? Consider adding an image of the skyline outline or some iconic landmarks or tourist attractions, such as Big Ben. We guarantee this will make the participants always remember the race.
Also, if the race passes near historic or tourist sites, think about representing them in the medal design. This helps tell a story and may even encourage participants to hang the medal in their home as a decorative piece.
Type of Event
When defining the design of your medal, it’s important to consider the style of the race.
For example, if it's a themed race like a colour run, we recommend using vibrant colours. Or, if it’s a children's race, consider using popular characters and friendly designs.
If it’s a corporate or sponsored event, don’t forget to include your company logo and a phrase that reflects its values.
Not only will this help participants create an emotional connection with the event, but it will also motivate them to keep participating in future events you organise.
Event Details
When customising a medal, it’s important to consider the date, race distance, and event location, as these details should be engraved on the medal.
If you prefer to hand out the medals after the event, you could even engrave each participant's name and their race position. This will make each individual feel special and recognised for their hard work and dedication.
Remember, customising your medals is very straightforward. Simply send us your preferences and any logos or information you would like to appear.
Our free design service includes a visual representation based on the images you provide, but it does not include the creation of a logo for you. However, if you require this service, we can offer it for an additional cost
#2 Experiment With Shapes
When customising the medals for your running event, we recommend considering the shape, as it can make them stand out and create a memorable visual impact.
There are many shapes beyond the traditional circle. For example, if your running event has an eco-friendly theme, you could use the shape of a tree or another nature-related element.
Additionally, for trail runs, you could opt for the shape of a mountain or irregular peaks. This will ensure that participants always remember the race and the challenge they overcame.
At MedalStudio, we offer all types of shapes. Each medal is uniquely designed to be any shape you envision, with layered construction for a stunning 3D effect that will truly stand out. Don’t forget to explore our product specifications for detailed information on sizes and colour options.
#3 Use the Right Materials
When organising your running event, it’s also important to consider your medals.
There are different options you can choose from, such as metal, wood, or acrylic. Each material is highly customisable and has unique advantages.
For instance, metal medals are among the most durable and resilient. They also look very elegant and high-quality, which can make the event truly unforgettable. We always recommend these medals for high-level sporting events. So, if you’re awarding a gold or silver medal in your running event, this material is the way to go.
Wooden medals, on the other hand, have a more rustic and vintage aesthetic, which makes them ideal for sustainable running events. Our wooden medals are 100% eco-friendly and easy to cut and shape. When choosing this material, just keep in mind that you need to handle them with care when cleaning, as moisture can damage them.
Acrylic medals are a favourite for many, as this material allows for extensive customisation. They also look elegant, are very lightweight, and remain affordable. So, if you’re organising a large running event, these medals may be the right option for you.
If you want to learn more about these materials, read our detailed guide.
#4 Use A Striking Ribbon
Last but not least, don’t forget to choose a striking colour for your medals.
Remember that colours also convey emotions, so if you want your medal to be truly memorable, try to pick a colour that matches the theme of your running event. For example, blue is ideal for corporate races, as it conveys trust.
Keep in mind that the ribbon colour should align with the official colours of your event. For instance, if your logo is green, try to incorporate that into the ribbon.
Don't forget that plain coloured ribbons are included in the cost of your medals. Simply click on the colour of the ribbon you wish to order. If you'd like to choose more than one colour, please call us or note it in the instructions box.
All of our medals come with our unique integrated ribbon system. The ribbons attach directly to the specially designed medals without the need for additional loops or catches.
Create Memorable Medals
If you're organising a running event, don't forget to personalise the medals. You can choose from different materials, use a special shape, and even choose the colour of the ribbon. This will make the event truly unforgettable.
If you have any questions regarding our custom medals, awards, or snoods please do not hesitate to email us at [email protected] or call us at 01377250449.
Updated: 05/05/2025