The excitement grows during the World Aquatics Championships Fukuoka 2023, but it's not just the athletes and competition that are capturing attention. The medals themselves have a remarkable story to tell.
Crafted with a touch of local heritage and community involvement, these medals showcase the beauty of Fukuoka's traditional craft, Hakata-ori, which has almost 800 years history. A true celebration of courage and connection, these medals are set to become cherished mementoes for the athletes and a symbol of unity for aquatic sports worldwide.
At 50 days to go landmark on May 25, 2023, the stunning medals were unveiled to the world, each one a testament to the craftsmanship of Fukuoka's artisans. A call was made to the residents of Kyushu region, with particular emphasis on Fukuoka, Kumamoto, and Kagoshima cities, to submit their designs. The chosen design, envisioned by the talented Daisuke Kobayashi of SUKEDACHI DESIGN, embodied the theme of 'the sparkle of water that spreads around the world.'
“I feel incredibly honoured,” Daisuke Kobayashi shared his feeling to World Aquatics. “When we think about what ‘water’ means to swimmers, who spend a significant amount of time with water in their lives, we believe that water has a context of effort, suffering, and joy that surpasses our imagination. This medal features a unique water-inspired design, symbolizing the essence of these championships. I would be delighted if it serves as a tribute to the bravery and enthusiasm of the medallists.”
The front of the medal portrays the essence of aquatic sports, with an elegant combination of 'caustics' - the beautiful phenomenon when light dances on the water's surface - and the iconic "shape of Kyushu." These overlapping circles of light symbolize the radiant future of aquatic sports and their connection to people worldwide.
On the reverse side, the World Aquatics emblem takes center stage, gracefully transforming into a "rising wave." This wave represents the "evolution" of the athletes, the championships, and the regions that come together in this grand sporting event.
Adding an extra touch of local flavor, the medal ribbons are designed by Sanui Orimono, a local textile manufacturing company and a member of the Hakata-ori Manufacturer Union, and woven using Hakata-ori, a traditional craft that Fukuoka is renowned for. The ribbons are crafted from 100% high-density silk fabric and feature a tribute pattern in vibrant blue, mirroring the championships' image color. To evoke the calming essence of water, light blue stripes run through the ribbons, adding a subtle aquatic touch. A perfect finishing touch, the championships' name and logo are woven in pure white with gold, silver and bronze streaks alongside, ensuring a timeless elegance.
What makes these ribbons even more special is their unique reversible design. When medallists proudly hoist their hard-earned medals, the same captivating image adorns the front side, displaying the championships' name and logo.
“By having the medal ribbons for the championships made in Hakata-ori, we have been given a wonderful opportunity to introduce medallists from around the world to the beauty of Hakata-ori,” said representative director of Sanui Orimono Katsuhiko Sanui. “Hakata-ori is a high-density silk fabric, and the medal ribbons are meticulously woven with the emblem of the World Aquatics and the championships logo. I believe the medallists would perceive a stark contrast between the medal ribbons they have received in the past and the exquisite Hakata-ori ribbons.”
German swimmer, Leonie Beck, who secured the first gold medal of the entire championships in the Open Water Swimming women's 10km event and later clinched another title in the 5km event, couldn't help but express her admiration during the women’s 10km post-race press conference. "During the entering ceremony when I saw the medals I said to Chelsea (Gubecka), ‘Wow, they look beautiful. I like them a lot.’"
Beyond the medals, Fukuoka 2023 proudly embraces its heritage by offering original goods crafted from traditional crafts such as Hakata dolls, Hakata Magemono, and Hakata Hariko. These treasures will be available for purchase at Marine Messe, the heart of the championships' main venues, throughout the event.
For those attending the championships, a delightful surprise awaits. The medal ribbon will be displayed every day at Marine Messe, and it will also host a daily Hakata-ori products sale. Furthermore, participants will have the opportunity to experience Hakata-ori accessory production and paint Hakata dolls. So, if you're in the vicinity, make sure to seize the opportunity and immerse yourself in Fukuoka's rich traditional craftsmanship.
Fukuoka City presents an enchanting video showcasing the history and culture of its traditional crafts, including the fascinating production process of the Hakata-ori medal ribbons. Be captivated by the timeless artistry that adds depth and meaning to this global sporting event.
As the world takes in the grand spectacle of the World Aquatics Championships - Fukuoka 2023, the stage is here not only for a display of athletic prowess but also for a celebration of local heritage and the indomitable spirit of unity that aquatic sports bring to the world. With medals woven with care and compassion, Fukuoka welcomes athletes and spectators alike to be part of this extraordinary journey.