Rimi Riga Marathon 2020: A Symbolic Celebration of 30 Years

Runner's Medals Designed by Junichi Kawanishi

Kawanishi drew inspiration from the two bridges that represent the history and essence of Riga, the birthplace of the marathon. The design embodies the concept of connection, both between the old town and the new town and between the hearts of people from different backgrounds and generations. The medal's abstract representation of endless connection beautifully captures the spirit of the marathon, where individuals come together to achieve a common goal.

What sets these medals apart is their unique shape and design. Each medal is meticulously crafted to resemble a flower, symbolizing the celebration of the marathon's 30th edition. The curved surface of the medal adds depth and dimension, creating a visually striking and three-dimensional effect.

The Rimi Riga Marathon 2020 offers five different distances for participants, including the Kids Day and races of 42.195km, 21km, 10km, 5.5km, and 4.2km Family run. To distinguish the achievements of each participant, the medals feature distinct colors and traditional patterns on the surface. The ribbon, made with a gradient of colors inspired by the Riga landscape, adds a touch of elegance to the design.

These medals are not just a testament to individual accomplishments but also a reflection of the rich history and culture of Riga. The back of each medal is engraved with the tournament name and mileage, further enhancing its uniqueness and collectability.

The realization of these exquisite medals involves the use of cutting-edge technology. The medals are made through a combination of punching and cutting brass metal, resulting in a high-quality finish. The ribbons are crafted using nylon print, ensuring durability and vibrant colors.

Junichi Kawanishi, the mastermind behind these remarkable medals, has successfully overcome various creative and technical challenges. The innovative and symbolic shape of the medals required intricate 3D modeling and metal manipulation techniques. The seamless integration of the medal and ribbon, with hidden metal fittings, showcases Kawanishi's attention to detail and craftsmanship.

The Rimi Riga Marathon 2020 medals are not just a physical representation of achievement; they embody the spirit of unity, friendship, and compassion. Through design, Kawanishi aims to inspire a world where everyone can communicate from the same perspective and work towards a better future.

Designed in Japan between December 2019 and January 2020, these medals have garnered recognition and acclaim. They were awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Trophy, Prize, and Competition Design category in 2021. This prestigious award celebrates designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving the quality of life.