Age group awards

The Tombstone 10k trophies are all made by the local high school shop class. In an unrelated note, the Tombstone 10k sucks balls.

I'd go for the mug. I have my marathon award out, but otherwise they go into closet.

One award I liked was a $20 gift certificate to a running shop. Perhaps a local store would consider donating several certificates to your race.

Here in Indy it seems that gift certificates from local running stores are the most popular, and I expect that in most cases the stores donate tehm; a great way to generate both good will and traffic. Typically about $15-20 for 1st, $10-15 for 2nd, $5-10 for 3rd. Usually multiple gift certificates cannot be used on the same purchase which also works to the stores' advantage. Most common is 5 year age bands, separate sexes. Personally, I think medals are kind of cool but you probably cannot get a free ride on them the way you can on gift certificates.

Definately THE best award. I'm hoping I can swing a deal like this. I agree that it would be a huge benefit to me, and the store generates much more foot traffic with a $25 than by getting their name on the tshirt etc..

It seems to be a win-win.

I also agree with the gift certificates. I don't have interest in another cheap plastic trophy. I'd be happy with almost any practical reward though- nalgene water bottles, mugs, dry-fit socks, winter running gloves...

Please also be aware that most high school associations (and, to a large extent, the NCAA as well) have rules against competitors accepting awards having tangible value--as opposed to a first-place mug, a plaque, or a trophy. You're doing a favor for this crowd, and their coaches, if you avoid the gift certificate or merchandise kind of award for competitors in the lower age brackets. Maybe consider reducing their entry fees instead?

I am not sure how easy this is, but what about a coffee mug that says, "Acme 10k - 3rd Place Overall" or soemthign along those lines.

It would be a pretty cool gift, I know I would like it, and it would seem to appeal to almost all of the age groups.

You could do coffee mugs or water bottles or whatever was easiest.

I've given out pint glasses with the race logo on them. People seemed to enjoy the useful awards more than a plaque or a medal.

On the glasses, instead of putting anything as direct as "40-45 age group 2nd Place" simply put "Award Winner" or nothing at all. If you put nothing on the glasses (except the race logo) you can use any extra glasses to thank volunteers and others who helped put on the race.

If I'm not mistaken, you should be able to get them for $3-4 per glass.

i've got enough coffee mugs, plaques, t-shirts, medallions, etc. gimme cash or running store gift cards.

I've always thought it would be nice to get a free entry that you can use or give away to someone for the next year's race. What a great promotional tool.

Age awards that I have liked:

trophy

dinner out

bottle of wine with award printed on label

coffee mug with award listed

Waterproof blanket

$20 gift certificate at running store

free dry cleaning

Beer stien with engraved award

Nylon exercise bag

The only ones that I have not liked are

Ribbons

Cotton Shirt

plastic trophy

money (admission fee)