Medals for 2025 Island Games are unveiled
BBCThe medals for the Orkney Island Games have been revealed with 100 days to go until the event begins.
From 12–18 July, Orkney will welcome about 2,000 athletes from 24 island groups to compete in 12 sports.
It marks the first time Orkney has hosted the Games in its 40-year history, making it a landmark occasion for the islands and the biggest sporting event in its history.
Guernsey hosted the event for the third time in 2023, and will be sending a team to Orkney alongside Jersey, Alderney and Sark.
The 20th International Island Games will bring together athletes to compete in a wide variety of disciplines.
Orkney is gearing up to host athletes, coaches, and spectators from dozens of island nations, creating an event that is as much about community and camaraderie as it is about competition.
With 100 days to go until the Games begin, the medals that will be presented to each winning athlete have been revealed.
Creative Orkney and Orkney 2025 ran a competition for the design of the medals and ribbon.
Judges picked islander Jodie Brown's standing stones medal design to feature on all 1,272 medals presented at Orkney 2025.
They show Orkney's Standing Stones of Stenness, which are believed to be older than Stonehenge and an iconic island landmark.
Ms Brown, aged 23 from Kirkwall, will receive her own commemorative set and present a medal during the Games.
She said the Neolithic stones depicted represent first, second and third in each competition as well as the Orkney's rich history.
The ribbon design was won by Olivia Yorston, whose striking concept represents the flag colours of Orkney and features all the official Island Games logos.
The medals have been sponsored by Orkney jewellery designer, Sheila Fleet.
Kirsty Talbot, director of Orkney 2025, said: "Orkney is a thriving hub for creatives, attracting artists, writers, musicians, and craftspeople from across the globe.
"With only 100 days to go until we welcome the world, excitement is building and we are very much looking forward to creating positive memories which will last a lifetime."
Gordon Deans, chairman of Orkney 2025, said staging the Games had been a logistical challenge.
"The Games is supported by principle funders the Scottish Government and Orkney Island Council, and would not be possible without the incredible efforts of the Orkney community," he said.
"Over 800 volunteers have stepped forward to take on vital roles, from stewarding events to supporting athletes and spectators.
"Their dedication showcases the warmth and hospitality that make Orkney such a special place."
The Games kick off with an opening ceremony and athletes' parade in Kirkwall on Saturday 12 July, hosted by Lorraine Kelly.
Highlights include the triathlon in Stromness, cycling road races through the West Mainland, and the half marathon in Kirkwall.
The opening ceremony and sporting events are free and open for all to attend.
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