Certificates as Part of Your Prize Distribution
Photo by magerleagues
Recognition. For the most part, whether we admit it or not, we all seek it. Perhaps not in a loud and attention-getting way, but even the simplest thank you or good job is desired when we accomplish something significant.
When planning a race the prize ceremony is all about this recognition. Just how much attention you can draw to a person who places in their age category and the actual value of their prize is greatly dependent upon your sponsorship resources and budget.
For most of the races I’ve been involved in planning, many members of the committee felt that certificates of completion were necessary in those places and categories for which we did not have a tangible prize.
A certificate is simply a piece of paper (often cardstock) which has a place for the participants name, the gender, age category, placement and name of the event/logo. Then it is signed, often stamped by a high ranking individual in the organization. Because you don’t know who will place where, all of the certificate can be completed prior to the event except the name. This would be written in after the race.
Certificates are typically something used in smaller scale races to ensure recognition is given to those who deserve it. Some races provide medals, some provide certificates which are, let’s face it, very inexpensive.
So my question is, as a race planner or participant, how do you feel about certificates of completion? Are they valued by you or your participants, or is it just the same as not giving those persons anything (when you don’t have an adequate budget) and just verbally recognize them?
Note, I’m speaking of those 2nd and/or 3rd place winners in your age groups. I’d argue that some type of actual prize is appropriate for your 1st place finishers whether taken out of your budget or donated.
Personally, I value a certificate about as much as a medal or trophy. Honestly, not that much. I’m just not the type of person who wants stuff to sit around especially for a smaller scale race such as a 5K. I guess a bigger event such as a half marathon would be different. However, someone may feel the same towards a 5K as I do a half marathon. Everyone’s abilities and goals are different. That being said, some individuals who might be first time participants may highly value a piece of paper stating they participated and finished.
What type of person are you? Should race planners be advised to include certificates or save the minor resources it takes to print them?
Certificates of completion may be fine for most participants, but overall and age group winners should get awards. Certificates are not awards.
An award should be something that cannot be consumed or used – no apparel. Plaques, paperweights, mugs, steins, or race-themed items are best.
They should list the exact category of the award winner. Just listing the name of the race makes it a souvenir, not an award.
Don’t reduce the quality of the award to save money. People who win races deserve recognition.
you are dead on right…recognition is that all everyone seeks…every individual no matter how much in life has he succeeded he would yet want more recognition…