In a classic case of premature design, organisers of the world's largest half marathon, the Great North Run, have been forced into an embarrassing apology. The finisher's medal for the 2025 event, unveiled this week, features a significant geographical error, incorrectly naming the finish line location.
The commemorative medal, intended to celebrate the runner's achievement, boldly states 'Sunderland' as the finish. This has left participants and locals baffled, as the race famously concludes in the coastal town of South Shields, not Sunderland.
An Immediate Backtrack
Event organisers quickly acknowledged the gaffe. A spokesperson stated, "We hold our hands up – we’ve made a mistake... We’re already working on a new design which will proudly proclaim South Shields as our finish line." They confirmed that the incorrect medal was a prototype and assured that no runner in 2025 would receive it.
A Tradition of Iconic Medals
The finisher's medal is a cherished souvenir for the 60,000 participants who tackle the 13.1-mile route from Newcastle to South Shields each year. This blunder is particularly noticeable given the event's prestigious history and the importance of the medal as a keepsake.
The organisers have promised a corrected design will be revealed in due course, ensuring the 2025 event is remembered for the right reasons.
