Trophies & Medals
Discover the story behind each of the trophies presented at the OGI games.
OGI Padre Russo Winners Shield
The shield given to the victorious team of the OGI event that year, represents their hard work, determination, and skill put in to achieve the title. In 2002 the OGI Winner’s Shield was renamed the Padre Russo Winner's Shield in memory of their beloved supporter, the late Padre Roberto Russo of St Peter’s Italian Church in Clerkenwell.
Mazzini Garibaldi Sportsmanship Trophy
In 1984 The Sportsmanship trophy was introduced and is awarded as a symbol of the team expressing the most sportsmanship throughout the games. It reminds us that despite the competition, we are still united as a community. The trophy is named after The Mazzini Garibaldi Charitable Foundation, devoted to supporting the Italian community in the UK and has been involved with OGI since it's inception.
Les Rickard Trophy
The first OGI games organised and run by an independent O.G.I committee took place with Les Rickard as President in 1986. In 1988, following his untimely death, the Les Rickard trophy was introduced to commemorate his memory and is awarded to the team with the best ratio of athletes to medals.
Vic Heissl Award
Introduced for OGI 2018, to honour one of our original founders and the first President of OGI, Vittorio Heissl, who sadly passed away aged 84 on 26th July 2016.
The OGIC felt that this award should reflect the ideals of Vic himself, who always believed that OGI was not just about the winning but about the taking part and bringing everyone, young and old, together, making new friends and encouraging them to become actively involved in the Italian communities life, in whatever capacity they could. Not for personal gain but out of a sense of civic duty and pride in our achievements and a desire to ensure that future generations continue to feel a part of our legacy.
OGI Medals
The OGI medals are a symbol of individual athletic achievement. Presented as gold, silver, and bronze, these medals are awarded to the top three athletes or teams in each event, honouring their dedication, skill, and perseverance. More than just a token, they serve as a cherished reminder of the effort made through participation and athleticism. Placed around the athlete's neck upon a podium, each medal reflects the shared values and connections that bring our community together.
