THESE are the designs of the 2017 half marathon medals.

Now in its 34th year the Reading Vitality Half Marathon will see thousands pound the town’s pavements on Sunday, March 19.

Redesigned every year, the 2017 victors’ medals shows the Maiwand Lion leaping on a hollow background. It hangs from a pink ribbon.

Nick Fifield was one of the first runners to see the new medal after taking part in a special training run organised by Sweatshop.

“It looks pretty spectacular, nice and heavy, it gives you something to aim for and I’m really looking forward to the race next year,” he said.

“The Vitality Reading Half Marathon is special, I was amazed by the number of people that turned up last year.

“It’s a phenomenal crowd and the whole atmosphere is great, I like the fact that so many people turn up, it’s almost like a carnival.”

Judith Manson, race director, said: “The medals are so important, they are a badge of honour for every runner so we work hard to create a medal that participants will wear with pride, whilst truly representing Reading.

“It was great to hear such positive feedback from runners at the training run about the new medal, who seemed particularly impressed with the leaping lion centre-piece.

“It’s definitely one which will stand out on any medal shelf.”

If you are taking part in the half marathon tomorrow, why not tweet us a photo of you and your medal after the race - @rdgchronicle