CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT
To develop the medal for the 2025 Gold Rush 5K, I explored several concepts inspired by running, athletics, and UNC Charlotte’s 49er history. Early directions included a design built around a shoe tongue and laces, along with pickaxe-inspired concepts. While these ideas offered interesting visual possibilities, I wanted to create something that felt more connected to the race and the accomplishment of completing it. This led me to explore Olympic-style medals, which offered a timeless direction for the final design.
FINAL DESIGN
The Olympic-style medals from my moodboard provided the direction for the final design. I wanted the medal to feel like something runners would be proud to take home while remaining connected to UNC Charlotte. The octagonal gold shape represents achievement, while the green shoelace ties back to the “Lace Up” slogan and adds a sense of movement. A centered knot represents the connection between participants, while subtle patterning, bold typography, and Charlotte’s colors complete the design.
THE EVENT
The 2025 Gold Rush 5K was a success, bringing together over 700 participants. It was rewarding to see the event come to life and know that the medal I designed would be part of the experience for everyone who crossed the finish line.
