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Island Games medals symbolise Orkney’s ‘rich cultural heritage’

An iconic Orkney landmark has inspired the medals that will be presented at this summer’s Island Games.

Today marks 100 days to go until this year’s Games in Orkney.
Today marks 100 days to go until this year’s Games in Orkney. / Orkney 2025

Following a competition launched two years ago by Creative Orkney in partnership with Orkney 2025, Jodie Brown’s eye-catching standing stones medal design was chosen and her sketch has become reality to feature on all 1,272 medals that will be presented.

‘Jodie has created a very iconic design with so much that symbolises Orkney’s rich cultural heritage,’ said famed Orkney jewellery designer Sheila Fleet, who has sponsored the medals.

‘The hollow circle stands for Orkney and the presence of the iconic standing stones. As a medal it has great impact.

‘It shows the real potential of an up-and-coming designer, so we are absolutely thrilled to have given Jodie the opportunity to work with us on the design of a new Standing Stones collection that will be launched around one month before the Games.’

Jodie Brown’s eye-catching standing stones medal design was chosen for this year’s Games.
Jodie Brown’s eye-catching standing stones medal design was chosen for this year’s Games. / Orkney 2025

The ribbon design was won by Olivia Yorston, whose striking concept represents the flag colours of Orkney and features all official Island Games logos.

Excitement for the Games is increasing and tomorrow marks the start of the 100 days to go countdown.

From 12-18 July 2025, Orkney will welcome around 2,000 athletes from 24 islands across the globe to compete in 12 sports: archery, athletics, badminton, bowls, cycling, football, golf, gymnastics, sailing, squash, swimming, and triathlon.

‘Orkney is a thriving hub for creatives, attracting artists, writers, musicians, and craftspeople from across the globe,’ said Kirsty Talbot, director of Orkney 2025.

‘It is therefore extremely fitting that the medals designed for the athletes of Orkney 2025 celebrate Orkney’s iconic landscape and will be a perfect tribute to the winning athletes who compete in our Games.

‘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.’

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