In mid 2000, the Sydney design group, Bang Design, developed this plastic distance marker for athletics events at the Sydney Olympic Games. Bearing the letters 'OR', it was positioned on the field of play to indicate Olympic record distances for events like discus and javelin. Made from a rotational molding, its plastic body was lightweight and durable to increase maneuverability and to withstand outdoor conditions. Its yellow tone appeared prominently on the field, and complemented the light-blue lane markers that were also designed by Bang.

The distance markers were designed as companions to the Bang lane markers, which represented speed and athletic agility through their sleek and elongated bodies. The sets of distance markers included two distinct styles - a yellow marker that featured the letters 'WR' or 'OR' to denote world and Olympic records, and a blue, numbered marker that indicated record distances in metres. These two types of markers appeared together on the field of play. Bang oversaw the production of the lane and distance markers, which numbered together in the low hundreds. This project was one of several that Bang conducted for the Sydney 2000 Games.

Bang first worked with SOCOG in 1997 when it researched visual themes for the Sydney Olympics, and developed models of public architecture that would enhance the look of the city. This exercise introduced Bang to several design projects that represented Sydney as a vibrant and youthful host of the Olympic Games. Aside from developing the lane and distance markers, Bang designed plastic containers for Aboriginal message sticks (gifts to visiting Olympic officials), as well as cases to hold the Olympic victory medals. In 1999, it submitted a tender to design the Olympic and Paralympic torches, progressing to the final round of the design competition.

This plastic distance marker was designed by Bang Design in Sydney in mid-2000 to mark world record distances in athletic events at the Olympic Games. It was positioned alongside a blue, numbered marker that indicated record distances in metres.

This plastic distance marker was one of less than 100 to have been made for the Sydney Olympic Games. It was made in Sydney in mid- 2000 from a rotational molding. Bang Design managed the entire production process.

This distance marker was positioned on the field of play to mark world record distances in athletic events. It was used throughout the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.

Made for and owned by the Olympic Coordination Authority/Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games, and donated to the Powerhouse Museum after use in the Games.

Distance marker, Olympic Games, Sydney, 2000, plastic, designed by Bang Design, Sydney 2000, used at athletics events during the Olympic Games, Sydney, 2000

Distance Marker Three sided, yellow molded plastic. The three sides of the marker are curved squares. The tops of each square join to create a flat triangular shaped top to the marker. The base of the marker is open. Each of the sides has large adhesive dark blue letters "OR" [Olympic Record] stuck to them. On two of the sides above the OR in smaller text is "Sydney 2000". Above the OR on the third side are the Olympic rings. PHM number on back of side featuring the Olympic Rings.

Made: 2000

2001/84/332

2000

405 mm

810 mm