You’ve just crushed a marathon — 42 kilometers of sweat, grit and self-doubt. At the finish line, they hand you a medal. That’s it. Your reward for months of early alarms, painful blisters and saying “no” to Friday night plans. And while the race is over, the story you carry with that medal is far from finished.
In the Philippines, wearing your marathon medal outside the race venue can sometimes draw funny looks. But elsewhere? It’s a badge of honor runners proudly rock for a day, a week, or even longer. At airports, coffee shops or while running errands, you’ll spot marathoners unapologetically showing off their “bling.” Before you raise an eyebrow, here are a few reasons why that medal deserves to shine — wherever they take it.
Personal achievement
“Imagine putting in hard work, dedication, sweat and tears into training for months, but receiving nothing to recognize your effort. How would you feel?” asked Singapore-based RunSociety in a 2020 article. That medal is more than just a shiny trinket; it’s a tangible reminder that the wearer has overcome physical and mental barriers to achieve something extraordinary.
Collector’s pride
For marathoners, each medal tells a unique story of the race it represents. The designs are often intricate, celebrating local culture, race history or even whimsical themes. Wearing a medal is about commemorating an event that will never be replicated in quite the same way.
Reason to celebrate
“Yes, they were taken aback, perplexed, and a little worried, but they were too kind to downplay my accomplishment of running Boston. Not a single soul suggested I remove my medal,” shared runner Matthew Meyer in a 2019 Runner’s World article. And that’s how it should be! Completing a marathon is no small feat. Runners wear their medals to honor their victory — because if you’ve just conquered 42 kilometers, why not celebrate it? That medal is their invitation to revel in their success and share it with others.
Perks of wearing bling
“Many runners score free coffee, beer or even a complimentary meal just by wearing their finisher’s medal,” said Canadian Running Magazine. “Pizza slices are also a common freebie, and who doesn’t dream of that during the tough sections of a hard race?” While this trend hasn’t caught on in the Philippines yet, it’s a fun tradition abroad. Some establishments reward runners as a way of celebrating their grit and determination.
Inspiration for others
Wearing a marathon medal is also a way to inspire others. Seeing someone walk into a coffee shop or an airport proudly displaying their hard-earned medal can spark curiosity and even motivation in others to take on their own challenges. It’s a silent but powerful message: “If I can do it, so can you.” S