In mid 2000, the Sydney design group, Bang Design, developed this plastic lane marker for athletics events at the Sydney Olympic Games. Bearing the number '5', it was the fifth marker within a set of eight, and was positioned on the fifth lane at the start of track events. Made from a rotational molding, its plastic body was lightweight and durable to increase maneuverability and to withstand outdoor conditions. Its light-blue tone appeared prominently on television, and complemented the yellow distance markers that were also designed by Bang.

The SOCOG design brief for the lane and distance makers emphasised function instead of form, however the result blended both practical and aesthetic elements. Its tripod design, with a curving leg on either side and a long leg extended at the rear, resembled a sprinter crouched in a starting block while its sleek contour captured the energy of the track athlete. 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.

The athletics lane markers and a similar set of distance markers were designed by Bang Design of Balmain, Sydney in mid 2000. They were developed to encapsulate speed and agility, and to appear prominently on the track for officials, spectators and the television audience.

This plastic lane marker was one of around 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 lane marker was the fifth in a set of eight, and was positioned on the fifth lane at the start of track 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.

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

Lane Marker. Three sided, light blue molded plastic. The three sides of the marker are curved. There are two square short sides one longer side. The top of the marker is closed and flat. The base of the marker is open. Each of the sides has a large adhesive white "5" stuck to them. The long side and one of the short sides have the Olympic Rings in white above the "5". The remaining short side has "Sydney 2000" in white text above the "5". Towards the top of the longer side are six conical shaped holes that are open at the top and the bottom. PHM number on back of long side.

Made: 2000

2001/84/322

2000

405 mm

830 mm