By KPC Sports Correspondent
The World Athletics U20 Championships Oregon 26 has unveiled the medals that will be awarded to the world’s top young athletes during the global showpiece at Hayward Field in August.
Inspired by Oregon’s natural beauty and rich athletics heritage, the medals are shaped around the Oregon 26 event logo, which incorporates geometric trees and wings that combine to form the iconic winged foot symbol associated with track and field.
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The wing design also reflects Oregon’s state motto, “She flies with her own wings,” which was officially adopted in 1987.
Organisers have also incorporated Oregon-inspired colours into the medal ribbons.
Gold medals will feature blue ribbons symbolising the state’s rivers and waterways, silver medals will be attached to red and orange ribbons inspired by Oregon’s sunrises and sunsets, while bronze medals will be adorned with green ribbons representing the region’s lush landscapes.
“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,” said Oregon 26 Chief Marketing Officer Karen Ramming.
“The shapes, colour tones and textures bring that symbolism to life in a vibrant way. We are proud of what our creative team has designed,” she added.
In a unique gesture, medallists will also receive specially designed honorary pins matching their medals to share with coaches, family members, friends and teammates who played a role in their journey to the podium.
Organisers said the pins recognise that every medal-winning performance is built on the support and sacrifices of many people behind the scenes.
More than 1,700 athletes from over 135 countries are expected to compete at Hayward Field from August 5-9, 2026, in the 21st edition of the World Athletics U20 Championships.
The event will mark the second time Oregon has hosted the prestigious championships, with the world’s brightest rising stars set to battle for global honours in one of athletics’ most iconic venues.
