We worked with Victoria Sprague, runner, designer, and member of the Gun Lake Tribe of the Potawatomi Indians, to create a medal ribbon in tribute to this unique Chicago/Boston weekend of Indigenous Peoples Day. The ribbon is free to any athlete who presents their finisher's medal at any Heartbreak location after the race that night or the following week (while supplies last; it can be fitted with the existing ribbon).
Victoria tells us: "I wanted to do a beaded looking style since it's a commonly used art technique across multiple Native tribes. These colors [red & black] typically signify strength and power and I just think they look badass."
Symbols in the design:
Feathers: "A sign of being blessed but more so they were awarded to those who were successful or did well in battle."
Morning stars (the white shapes): "A symbol of guidance and hope."
The text "Kche Maji" means "run hard" in Potawatomi. Have look at the design below and learn more about the Native American story behind the name Heartbreak Hill here.
