The Recognition Minute
Awards for South Africans July 21 2017, 0 Comments
May I state the obvious? We live in interesting times. As always!
The history of South Africa has given us lots to talk about. The wildness of the terrain has yielded so much to see. Diverse people live together in this colourful nation.
As South Africans, we have shown great resourcefulness in finding solutions to problems over the decades, even centuries. So, a little about our heritage of success, for which we could be forgiven for awarding ourselves a medal. No, make that a huge, silver trophy!
3 December 1967, on the tip of our African continent, Dr Chris Barnard performed the world’s first heart transplant. It was uncharted territory. A domain unexplored in humans. It was very risky since once he had removed the patients failing heart, there was no turning back. Either the recipient would never wake up or they would wake up with a functioning heart. If the heart did beat and give life, how well and for how long? There was no precedent. No one knew.
Louis Washkansky did wake up and Dr Barnard became the first ever to succeed in transplanting a human heart into another person. Kudos, trophies, medals and plenty of certificates all round. Barnard became an international celebrity and performed another ten heart transplants, one of the patients surviving for 23 years.
Another Doctor, Dr Selig Percy Amoils created a new method of cataract surgery, using his cryoprobe. He developed this method at Baragwanath Hospital and was awarded the Queen’s Award for Technological Innovation in 1975. His invention gave back sight to many, who could now enjoy their successes in the light. This put South Africa on the world’s stage of medical advancement again. His invention has since been on display in the Kensington Museum in London.
Another exceptional advancement in medical technology was the CAT scan. This was developed in Cape Town by physicist Allan Cormack and his associate Godfrey Hounsfield. It required medical and mathematical skill and innovation in order to achieve their goal: a scanner that could scan the whole body and translate the data into meaningful images. These scans were clearer than static X-Ray plates and took the medical world a leap forward in diagnostic ability.
Their work also deserved an enormous trophy and was recognized through a Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine.
A CAT scanner is used routinely today in the diagnosis and management of many medical conditions and allows for much better and more specific treatment.
One more South African medical invention: The Smartlock safety syringe.
The Smartlock syringe automatically retracts the needle into a sheath and locks it in place as the needle is withdrawn the patient. Therefore, no needle caps to place over used needles or a specific ‘sharps’ disposal container. This meant safety for all concerned.
Interesting times indeed. May our people continue earning awards for South Africa, whether in science or culture, sport or engineering.
In our next blog post, I will feature some other, world-renowned inventions by South Africans who deserve the gold medal of innovation and the trophy of success!
Comrades of South Africa who won The Medal July 13 2017, 0 Comments
In 1921, Bill Rowan, the first Comrades winner, crossed the finish line in Eight Hours and Fifty-Nine Minutes. He was one of 16 runners to finish the race and went on to represent South Africa at the 1924 Paris Olympics. A piece of history was carved into the records on that 24th of May, an event commemorated each year to this day.
Until 1962, the winner’s medal was awarded to South Africans mostly. Between ’62 and ’72, three Brits took the first gold medal, all finishing in under six hours. In 1965, a lady crossed the finish line in top position for the first time – her time: 10:07. That was Mavis Hutchinson.
Familiar names such as veteran Wally Hayward, Allan Rob and of course, Bruce Fordyce have been inscribed in the history books as winners and legends of this ultra-marathon. Eight successive wins for Fordyce from ’81 – ’88 set an exceptionally challenging record for the future, which is not likely to be beaten any time soon. His finish times remained reasonably consistent throughout with race no. 8 being close to his personal best, a remarkable achievement.
In 1989, Samuel Tshabalala took first place among the men and Frith van der Merwe received her gold medal in 5:54 on the down run; her second Comrades win and an improvement of 38 minutes over the previous year which was an up run. Tshabalala was the first Black South African contender to win Comrades.
There are many names not mentioned here who have helped place South Africa first in the medal and trophy stakes. Names such as Moshiywa, Mamabolo, and Ngomane come to mind. Among the ladies, let’s not forget Maureen Holland, Lindsay Weight, Caroline Wostman and Charne Bosman.
In 2014, Bongamusa Mthembu wins his first Comrades in 5:28:34. In his own words, it took him eight years to win. He started as a brick layer and ran to keep healthy. Latest achievements include gold medal status in six marathons since 2012 and of course, his latest victory, a gold medal for his win in 2017.
Gold Medals and Trophies are for the few but what would the Comrades Marathon be without the thousands who support and cheer and hand out water and energy bars as the winners run by. And who are the winners? Those who put in the hours of training before the great race; those who finish before the gun and those who tried but missed their award, who pick themselves up and try again.
Prestige Awards salutes all our South African Comrades.
For athletics medals with a South African flavour (athletics image with SA Flag colours ribbon), see: https://www.prestigeawards.co.za/collections/medals/products/athletics-medal and the new Mzanzi medal: https://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/multipurpose-mzanzi-medal-40
Wayde van Niekerk – a true South African wears the medals July 10 2017, 0 Comments
Do you remember, August 2016? Round about the middle of the month in Rio when a true South African stormed to victory. Wayde van Niekerk not only won the gold medal but set a new world record, covering 400 meters in 43.03 seconds!
This was a momentous occasion for the South African medalist as a world-class winner and the owner of the first gold medal in a track event for South Africa in 96 years. The previous record achieved by Michael Johnson over this distance had stood since 1999.
Minutes later, Usain Bolt ran the 100m in only 9.81 seconds, the third in a series of 100m titles. Wining trophies and medals was in the air.
Wayde was inspired by Bolt’s achievements and spent time in Jamaica training with him. “My favourite event is the 200m so I would love to race him one day when I am big,” said the fastest man ever over 400m.
It was earlier in the year that Wayde became the first athlete to run the 100m in under 10 seconds, the 200m in under 20 seconds and the 400m in under 44 seconds. Imagine the pleasant weight of three gold medals around your neck!
Now, he has added one more: a gold for the 300m in sub 31 seconds and has become the first man in history to hold the title over all four distances. What an exceptional athlete.
Wayde is humble in his achievement and readily acknowledges that there were significant others including Glen Mills, Usain Bolt’s coach in Jamaica. Back home, another true South African and unlikely coach, his white-haired grandmother, Ans Botha. This combination proved to be dynamite for van Niekerk.
We salute you Wayde! May these records again be confirmed and beaten by you, a proudly South African man and a role model to many, young aspiring athletes.
For athletics medals with a South African falvour (athletics image with SA Flag colours ribbon), see: https://www.prestigeawards.co.za/collections/medals/products/athletics-medal and the new Mzanzi medal: https://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/multipurpose-mzanzi-medal-40
Mzanzi May 26 2017, 0 Comments
Friday. Great weather. And two days to enjoy it.
Weekend, the traditional time for South Africans to gather, braai, quench their thirst and think about what life might be like in the snow. Then, grateful for the sun, the boerie and the beer, realise that life in Mzanzi is still good.
If you are in Cape Town, perhaps you will take a walk up a mountain somewhere. And when you summit, reward yourself with the view, the breeze and the thought that it is all downhill from there. You will have earned your medal!
If you are in Durbs, maybe a walk along the beach front. There is still time for a dip in the warm current off the Eastern border. Take part in a race through the hills or cycle to the Wild Coast and back. And when you are done, reward yourself with a glass of cool mineral water, ice and lemon. You have earned your medal.
Perhaps you are somewhere in Mpumalanga, among the citrus fruit and the pecan nut trees. Hiking through the gorges in search of a waterfall. Being on foot is challengin but it’s worth it because you too will have earned your medal. You will enjoy untouched lands of green moss and fresh spring water. An award or excellence. Nature’s gold medal to you.
But what if you are in Johannesburg? No mountain. No river. No sea. How will you earn your medal? Do no despair! This is where life happens, too. This is the buzz, the spark, the noise, the music. Restaurants and clubs, movies and shows, gyms and park runs and loads more. Any number of ways of earning your medal. If it’s your time to just kick up the feet and chill and still want a medal, all you have to do is visit www.prestigeawards.co.za and buy one. All possible without moving from the couch.
Wherever you are in Mzanzi, there will be a medal.
Look out for the special Mzanzi from Prestige Awards – coming soon!
A trophy is a trophy when… April 24 2017, 0 Comments
What makes a good trophy? It is a sign of achievement. It is a means of communication. It is also a work of art. It may even be central to your brand. Both traditional and non-traditional trophies share these aspects in common. What makes them different is style. And what makes them good - it's up to you!
Traditional trophies are typically in the form of a cup or a chalice, usually silver of gold in colour if not in substance and stand proud on a base. The base may be reserved for insignia, names of winners, dates, possibly quotes and other engraving. It gives a platform on which the trophy can stand, a sort of ‘red carpet’ or it's special shoe.
It is important that a trophy has height. Height speaks of a big win, a great achievement. It is more visible. Like all good trophies, it boasts about the winner and certifies success. This is not only true for traditional trophies but for any custom-made award as well.
Some organisations choose to break with tradition and design their trophies using contemporary materials such as acrylics, crystal or aluminium. This allows for many different shapes and sizes, to break with tradition and stand out in a crowd. The corporate brand can be included in the shape or colours of the trophy, making it all the more unique.
To be different, one can have a pair of shoes bronzed and mounted with a plaque describing the purpose of the trophy. In keeping with a South African theme, animal statuettes can be beautifully incorporated, representing values such as strength, dexterity, ingenuity or speed. Or, how about a sports emblem such as a cricket ball or boxing glove?
Whatever your need, if it is in the line of trophies, there is something available for you. If not already made, you can have it designed and made with our help. Have a look at a few examples here: https://www.prestigeawards.co.za/collections/types?q=Trophies%20-%20Customised
A GOLDEN TROPHY FOR NETBALL April 20 2017, 0 Comments
This month we see the start of the Brutal Fruit Netball Premier League (#BFNPL) and this is the Trophy they will be shooting for!! This custom-designed trophy depicts the three pillars of excellence – tuned body, tuned mind, tuned spirit. It is slender and tall, symbolic of reaching skyward towards the goals; the path to victory and achievement. The beautiful netball crowns the golden trophy, supported by the three pillars of excellence which are reminiscent of the players in full stretch for the netted hoops.
The wining team can look forward to owning this trophy, if only for a moment. Proof that they are tops. This trophy will entice and lure the players to run, throw and shoot all in the name of netball and success and sportsmanship, one of the marks of our beautiful country. And it promises to be Brutal!
A Brutal Netball Trophy April 07 2017, 0 Comments
Netball is a sport played and contested in relatively few countries internationally. South Africa is one of them!
This month we see the start of the Brutal Fruit Netball Premier League (#BFNPL) in Durban. Two opening matches on the 21st of April kick off the tournament – or should I rather say ‘shoot off’.
This year they will be playing for a custom-designed trophy that depicts the three pillars of excellence – tuned body, tuned mind, tuned spirit. It is slender and tall, symbolic of reaching skyward towards the goals; the path to victory and achievement. The beautifully crafted netball crowns the golden trophy, supported by the three pillars of excellence which are reminiscent of the players in full stretch for the netted goals.
The wining team can look forward to owning this trophy, if only for a moment, as proof that they have summited. This trophy will entice and lure the players to run, throw and shoot all in the name of the game of netball for the sake of success and sportsmanship, one of the marks of our beautiful country. And it promises to be Brutal!
Netball April 04 2017, 0 Comments
Netball is a fast, exciting, true team sport that involves throwing, running, jumping and catching.
Netball may be considered similar to basketball but how similar is a matter worth noting. Some differences are found in the equipment and number of players in the team. Dribbling is not allowed, no running with the ball; 7 players per team; ball must be passed in 3 seconds; ball and basket are slightly smaller; there is no backboard; players are designated to certain areas of the court. Netball also has similarities to European handball, korfball and ultimate frisbee.
Traditionally, in South African schools, netball was the winter sport reserved mainly for girls. While boys played rugby or soccer, the girls tackled netball. Unlike Rugby, Netball is not a contact sport. Players play the ball, strictly, and not the man. But strength and fitness are key, as with most sports that require physical exertion.
Recognition is given in the form of trophies and medals, which are awarded to players and teams alike. Now is the time to think about what your trophies will look like.
Trophies come in many shapes and sizes, traditional and unique. Custom trophies can be designed from the base up, so to speak, in a choice of many different materials. Materials frequently chosen are acrylic (Perspex), aluminium and wood. So don’t confine your thinking to a cup or a statuette if you are looking for something a little different. There is so much more to make netball special this season!
Have a look here: https://www.prestigeawards.co.za/search?q=custom&x=0&y=0
Add spirit to your hockey game with a netball trophy from Prestige Awards.
Not much hockey and plenty of cricket! March 23 2017, 0 Comments
Well, let’s back away a little from the hockey theme to see what else is happening on the sports front, this weekend. It’s none other than Newzealand vs our boys in the third game of the test, having won one, drawn one. Saturday’s game will be the decider.
New Zealand are spending time debriefing and soul-searching as they try to prevent their season ending with a whimper following the three-day thrashing at the Basin Reserve.
Five days and a session of toe-to-toe cricket - throughout the Dunedin game and until lunch on the second day in Wellington - unraveled with alarming speed against South Africa. No wonder Kane Williamson looked bemused as he tried to explain it away in the bowels of the Basin on Saturday evening.
New Zealand - both the players and management - have been reluctant to say that the visit of South Africa would define their season. But if they do not put in a better performance at Seddon Park starting on Saturday the last few weeks will certainly influence how their 2016-17 campaign is judged.
Both cricket and hockey trophies are available now at Prestige Awards, whether for your game in the nets on the super turfs or just for some neighbourhood fun in the park.
All trophies from Prestige Awards can be customised for the occasion http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-player-female-miniature-award
Resin trophies are molded according to a three-dimensional design then cast. The resin is given and antique gold look, which brings with it a sense of tradition. http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-goal-resin-trophy
Aluminium trophies can be mounted on a smart wooden base. These trophies were designed by Prestige Awards and are unique in their class. These trophies are also customisable to reflect the name of the club, school or event. We would love to discuss with you and ideas that you have for different designs and bring them to life in our factory. http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-m-ring-floating-trophy-t0425
Add spirit to your hockey game with a hockey trophy from Prestige Awards.
The All-important Badge March 20 2017, 0 Comments
From the first day of life, maybe even before a child is born, a name is selected. That name will stay with that child until the day they die. It is a life-long investment that is made on their behalf.
Perhaps that is why our names are so important to us. Even if we share our name with another, somehow, when our name it called we tend to believe it is for us alone. Have you ever been in a crowd and heard your name being called?
When we meet new people, is it not our names that we use first to introduce ourselves? “Hi, I’m Jack. You are?” Or, we may simply say our name and hand over a business card. A business card is something for the other person, whether stranger or friend, that contains many details but most important of all, our name.
Names are great conversation-starters. This is why so many more people in business wear badges, more than ever before.
The cashier in the bank has a name badge pinned to her chest. The waiter wears his badge prominently, so that patrons can call for him when they need service. It is also useful to the waiter, to help the customer remember who they should tip.
In the security industry, employees need to be identified in order to differentiate them from civilians and other perpetrators of mischief. For this reason, badges are manufactured to specific specifications, unique to that organisation.
Badges are not only worn as a means of personal identity. Many forms of insignium are worn to indicate rank or level of achievement, in the form of a scroll or possibly some other shape associated with the purpose – a star, a cross or a particular logo.
At Prestige Awards, we make badges. We bring identity to the school teacher, the corporate employee and the pupil. We recognise achievement and help give you your identifiable brand so that you are addressed properly and remembered.
Badges are made to order. The badge may be pinned with a brooch pin or held onto the clothing using a strong magnet. It’s your choice. Direct your search to this link for more ideas: https://www.prestigeawards.co.za/collections/badges
We have been recognising people since 1983. Why not ensure that you are one of them; one of us!Who Recognised St Patrick? March 17 2017, 0 Comments
Well, today is a Green day if you live in Ireland. 17 March - a day to remember St. Patrick, patron saint of Ireland. He is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland in c400 AD and for ridding Ireland from all it's snakes.
Legend has it that St. Patrick used the shamrock, a plant with three leaves to teach about the Christian Holy Trinity. This rather intriguing yet simple little plant is now the symbol of St. Patrick's day.
The absence of snakes in Ireland gave rise to the legend that St. Patrick chased them into the sea after they attacked him during a 40-day fast he was undertaking. Was he the early snake whisperer or did he have special powers that banished these serpents for good? It doesn't matter. What might matter more is that he is still remembered today, 1500 years later. Now that is recognition!
St. Patrick was never awarded a medal or a trophy for his work. He didn't boast any obvious academic achievements and may have lived a very non-competitive life, yet he has been immortalized with green shamrocks, and usually with lots of Guinness as well.
There are no medals or even certificates for being a saint today. In fact, awarding trophies is not likely at all, as the recognition of saints usually happens many years after their death. It is widely believed that St. Patrick died on this day, which is why the 17th of March was chosen for this annual celebration.
If you are celebrating excellent academic or sporting success, or top-class business performance in the corporate world, Prestige Awards has the trophy, the medal and the certificate for you. Many classical and traditional options are available for view. For a really special occasion, we will help you design something unique, to be remembered for the next 1500 years.
Contact us via the website or email: sales@prestigeawards.co.za
HAPPY SAINT PATRICK'S DAY ALL!
One Umpire, Two Umpire, Three Umpire, Four! March 16 2017, 0 Comments
Except for December perhaps, field hockey season could be yours to choose. While competitions may be held during a specific season, there is always time for a friendly or a bit of extra practice.
Indoor turf is a wonderful invention, allowing for all year round hockey. This means extra time to prepare for the competitions, for the trophies, the accolades and the medals.
As with all team sports, there are rules that give clear boundaries to the manner in which the sport is to be played. Players may have one aim in mind: to score trophy-winning goals but this, not at all costs. When a player is seen by one of the two umpires to break the rules, they will be blown up, the play stopped and the necessary sanction imposed against them.
Field hockey is a little different to some other team sports in that there are two umpires controlling the game. Technically, each umpire is responsible for one of the two halves of the field but in practice, they often control the diagonal half of the total playing field. Sometimes a reserve umpire is appointed since injury is a possibility in this fast-moving game. In world class games, technology is used to check certain decisions. A video umpire is also available.
A video umpire is reserved to assist with decisions pertaining to the legality of a goal. Some of the more common transgressions that are well monitored by the video umpire are related to whether the ball actually crossed the goal line, whether it was hit from within the circle and whether it touched a player’s stick illegally. There is little chance to sneakily break the rules these days… or maybe just occasionally, but it’s not worth it. The trophy stakes are high and the competition is fierce!
All trophies from Prestige Awards can be customised for the occasion, making them special: http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-player-female-miniature-award
Aluminium trophies can be mounted on a smart wooden base. These trophies were designed by Prestige Awards and are unique in their class. These trophies are also customisable to reflect the name of the club, school or event. We would love to discuss with you and ideas that you have for different designs and bring them to life in our factory. http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-m-ring-floating-trophy-t0425
Resin trophies are molded according to a three-dimensional design then cast. The resin is given and antique gold look, which brings with it a sense of tradition. http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-goal-resin-trophy
Add spirit to your hockey game with a hockey trophy from Prestige Awards.
Never Too Young for a Medal or Too Old for a Trophy March 10 2017, 0 Comments
There are some sports that are clearly not for the young of age. Running over hurdles, weight lifting and possibly gymnastics need some height and some power and height but hockey is different. Start whenever you want to!
If you are young and you want to play, find a stick your size and begin. If you are at varsity, choose a stick and boots that fit and play. Now, this is where it gets interesting. If you are a veteran, young or old, it is never too late. Just start to play.
Starting something new is challenging at times but before you decide that the challenge may be beyond you, think first of the benefits. One does not have to be a hockey star or living legend, earning all the trophies and weighted down with gold medals. Nor does one need risk becoming a late legend with no trophies and medals left for the mantelpiece.
There are many reason to play hockey, such as social, health and some good networking, too.
Hockey can be a strenuous game, so start out slow, at your own pace. Be prepared to leave the shore or familiarity (and the couch, also often too familiar) and begin.
For those young players who dream of winning in their varsity years, it is advisable to start no later than during the first year of high school. Even better would be to start during their first years of junior school, between ages four and seven. To become familiar with the game and develop the skills takes a little time. Starting early may give one the edge but nevertheless, it is always the right time to start. It is also good to become known among the hockey fraternity if you want to be noticed for selection for regional or provincial teams.
Learning is a process, so the sooner one starts, the better. Even a toddler can begin by being involved in the sporting activities and watching the game, for just a few minutes every week to develop interest in the game. If Mom, Dad or older sibling play hockey, even better. Parents who know just a little about the game can start teaching their children in the back yard!
One way of encouraging hockey is for kids to attend camps. This allows them to try out a stick, hit some balls and learn a few tricks from enthusiasts in an unpressured environment while having great fun. Playing around with a sport as well as playing the sport is how it all starts, which is why football and rugby seem to come so naturally to many kids in SA, and sometimes cricket and tennis as well. It also why people may wait until later in life before playing hockey!
So remember, if road-running medals are not your thing, squash trophies are a piece of old tacky, you can always play for a hockey award. And if medals and trophies are for someone else, then I say again, just start. It’s a fantastic, racy sport that will keep you fit for as long as you can run upright and hold a stick.
One day, when you throw in the stick, don’t throw in the towel because hockey would be so much less without you. Become a spectator.
Trophies help add spirit to any game. All trophies can be customised for the occasion. http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-player-female-miniature-award
Resin trophies are molded according to a three-dimensional design then cast. The resin is given and antique gold look, which brings with it a sense of tradition. http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-goal-resin-trophy
Aluminium trophies can be mounted on a smart wooden base. These trophies were designed by Prestige Awards and are unique in their class. These trophies are also customisable to reflect the name of the club, school or event. We would love to discuss with you and ideas that you have for different designs and bring them to life in our factory. http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-m-ring-floating-trophy-t0425
No Trophy Without a Stick March 08 2017, 0 Comments
It is said that the hockey stick is the most important piece of equipment used in the game. Well, put another way, a game of hockey without sticks just isn’t hockey.
The stick is no ordinary branch from a tree. It undergoes a lot of punishment in the hands of the player, which means careful crafting from the right materials is essential.
Sticks can be made from a variety of materials, traditionally from hard wood such as ash. As technology developed, other materials with equally strong, flexible properties were used. These include composites such fiberglass, graphite, carbon and Kevlar. Kevlar is a trade name for a very durable, spun fibre, used originally as a replacement for steel in racing car tyres.
Right-handed players may have an advantage when it comes to hockey since only right-handed sticks are manufactured.
The stick becomes a natural extension of the player, who skillfully maneuvers it to either gently coax the plastic ball in a dribble, or send it scooting as a 100km/h towards the goal. Length and weight vary and can be chosen to suite each player’s needs. The weight of a hockey stick ranges between about 500gm and 750gm.
Composite materials may have some advantages over wood in strength and flexibility of design. Wood is also water absorbent and should be kept dry. However, water can be attracted from both the field and the players, which is why the grip is importantly made of water-proof materials, such as suede, secured with plastic tape.
A stick is always a potential weapon. In a fast-moving game like hockey, sticks can get in the way of players, either to trip or injure. A referee is always on the look out for rough play as competitive teams strive for their trophies and medals.
The trophies at Prestige Awards are also not all alike. Some are cast from resins, with fine detail and colouring. Trophy cups could be made from metals, such a nickel, silver or pewter. Certain designs also lend themselves to aluminium, a nice, slick option, representing the speed of play. Shields are traditionally made of wood with brass or silver plaques that display winners' names. Trophies in the form of mini-statuettes of male and female players are available in plastic, coated in gleaming gold and are ideal as memorabilia for each player in the team.
Trophies help add spirit to any game and can all be suitably customised for the occasion. http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-player-female-miniature-award
Resin trophies are molded according to a three-dimensional design then cast. The resin is given an antique gold look, which brings with it a sense of tradition. http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-goal-resin-trophy
Aluminium cut-out trophies can be mounted on a smart wooden base. These trophies were designed by Prestige Awards and are unique in their class. We would love to help you with your unique design, to bring it to life for your event. http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-m-ring-floating-trophy-t0425
The Role of a Ball March 06 2017, 0 Comments
Think of a team sport that does not involve a ball. Well, there is badmington, which uses half a 'ball' and some feathers. Then there is ice hockey which uses a puck. But the ball is a prominent part of many team sports, as well as the individualistic games, like golf. The one notable difference between these games is the variety of balls that are used (and abused - think squash!) during the game.
A ball is usually round, except when it's not. Then it is usually more torpedo-shaped (what shape is that?) as in Rugby and American Footfall.
Let's look at a field hockey ball. This spherical object is dribbled and hit from stick to stick during a game. It will hopefully find it's way to the back of a the goals on occasions, just to make the game a little more exciting (as if it's not exciting enough).
The hockey ball starts out life as a piece of cork, or as just a piece of platic. The rest of the ball is made from hard plastic and is usually white. Some balls are made in other bright colours, which is all OK as long as it is in contrast to the field. (That would exclude green balls for obvious reasons)
The balls have a circumference of about 230mm and weigh around 160gm. When this round object is travelling at full speed (even half-speed) can you out-run it? Can you even run after it and catch it? Well, not likely if it is drag-flicked at top league, international player's speed of about 120 km/h. In fact, you had better have a stick in your hand, be clad from top to toe like a goalie, or duck or jump as fast as you can. The hockey ball becomes a formidable weapon that is best avoided, if you can't play it. And remember, Astro Turf has made higher speeds possible.
Like other ball sports, the ball is integral to the game, as are the goals. Remove the ball, or the goals and all you will have is a jumble of players just swinging sticks around, looking for something to do. So, I'm sure you would agree that the ball is a critical element in field hockey... and perhaps deserves a little more respect than just being smacked around. On the other hand, why not. A good smack never hurt a hockey ball.
Now, for those who get past the formidably kitted-out goalie (often enough), they will have the right to the trophy. Raising a trophy is the third, important element (in addition to the ball and the goals) without which, hockey would be less exciting all round. But remember, it is not the amount of goals that your teams scores. It is the amount of goals they score PLUS one over the opponent. One more wins the medals and the trophies.
At Prestige Awards, we carry a range of trophies that help add spirit to any hockey game, and maybe a little bit extra speed! Trophies in the shape of cups, challises or plates and shields for the club; mini-trophies for each player are ready in male and female statuettes. See: http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-player-female-miniature-award Medal - gold, silver & bronze - also available with hockey motif, just waiting to be engraved with your name or team's logo.
A special trophy made from resin and hard wood may be an option for a floating trophy. The trophy is molded according to a three-dimensional design then cast in resin. The resin is given an antique gold look, which brings with it a sense of tradition. http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-goal-resin-trophy
But, if you can't find anything that you really would like for your team, talk to us. We also design trophies and all sorts of other awards. Be a little unique.
Enjoy your game of hockey!
Synthetic Turf for Speed and Trophies March 03 2017, 0 Comments
For some, winter in South Africa is a complete non-event. Consider the ice-hockey players from Calgary who plays on a frozen lakes. They rush by in minus 25 degrees, sometimes colder. For any sportsman from Canada, our winters are sunny and pleasant. But for us, what could be better than taking some time to watch a game of hockey in the winter sun. Our weather lends itself to picnicking, relaxing and cheering for the trophy winners through most of the year in Gauteng (central province).
If indoor is what you prefer, that is available too. The game is played on a synthetic turf, which replaces grass. However, not all outdoor fields are grassed. Turf has gained in popularity for outdoors as well.
As early as the 60s, the first synthetic turf was developed as a replacement for grass. This was useful as indoor sports were growing in popularity. The first brand was named Astro Turf and has become the generic name for most synthetic turfs, of which there many.
The advantages of synthetic turf may seem obvious. It is always green, nice and even and never needs irrigation or cutting. However, there are disadvantages. Synthetic turf does have a life-span, which means it needs to be replaced as high cost and periodically needs cleaning with toxic chemicals.
Astro-Turf was first installed at a prep-school in Rhode Island. The turf became better known in the public arena when installed in the Astro Dome in Houston Texas.
Synthetic surfaces have changed the sport of field hockey significantly since being introduced in the seventies. It has increased the speed of the game considerably and changed the shape of hockey sticks to allow for different techniques, such as reverse stick trapping and hitting.
Players on synthetic turf generally need to be conditioned differently, being a faster game with slightly different rules. But, it is great to watch!
At Prestige Awards, we carry a range of trophies that help add spirit to any hockey game. Trophies in the shape of cups, challises or plates and shields for the club. Mini-trophies for each player are ready in male and female statuettes. See: http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-player-female-miniature-award Medal - gold, silver & bronze - also available with hockey motif.
A special trophy made from resin and hard wood may be an option for a floating trophy. The trophy is molded according to a three-dimensional design then cast in resin. The resin is given an antique gold look, which brings with it a sense of tradition. http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-goal-resin-trophy
Enjoy your game of hockey!
With a Ball and a Stick March 01 2017, 0 Comments
Watching a game of field hockey is an exercise in itself. Spectators have to keep their eyes on a fast-moving plastic of fiberglass composite ball, which is hit and flicked across the field at high speed. The players always seem to be on the move. It is fast.
Typically in South Africa, Hockey is considered a winter sport, usually played outdoors on grass or turf. Two teams of eleven players each compete, their aim: to get the ball past the opposing goalkeeper.
The ball is propelled by hitting it with a wooden or fiber stick which is curved and flattened at one end. The goalie also carries a stick, which may be shaped slightly differently to give it more surface area. As in soccer, the goalie is the only one who may touch the ball with other parts of his body other than the stick.
The history of field hockey can be traced back to early civilizations but the modern game was developed in the British Isles circa 1860, with the first formal hockey club formed in 1861.
Field Hockey is now the second biggest team sport, world-wide, played by men and women, in over 100 countries. Hockey is played by many sports clubs and offered widely in schools, who play competitively for trophies and cups.
Socially, hockey is a sport that is played by men and women of all ages, as long as they can wield a stick! The trophy and the medal my not be the object of the game when played merely for fun but the game is usually just as fast.
At Prestige Awards, we carry a range of trophies that help add spirit to any hockey game. Traditional silver cups, which can be customised for the occasions and miniature statuettes for male and female players for the whole team. http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-player-female-miniature-award
A special trophy made from resin and hard wood may be an option for a floating trophy. The trophy is molded according to a three-dimensional design then cast in resin. The resin is given an antique gold look, which brings with it a sense of tradition. http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-goal-resin-trophy
Something more modern perhaps? We have trophies that are constructed from aluminium and mounted on a smart wooden base. These trophies were designed by Prestige Awards and are unique in their class. These trophies are also customisable to reflect the name of a club or event. We are open to discussing your design and bringing it to life in our factory. http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-m-ring-floating-trophy-t0425
Enjoy your game of hockey!
OSCAR - A Trophy of Excellence and Merit February 27 2017, 0 Comments
It’s Oscar time again! The 89th time round, to be precise. And no less glitsy than the 88th. It red carpet time and time for actors and actresses to be recognised and awarded for their talent. The trophy: and Oscar Statuette.
This statuette is the most recognised trophy in the world.
The aims of the academy were set out in 1929. “How best to honour outstanding movie-making achievements and thereby encourage excellence in all facets of motion picture production.” It was a call to greatness for this industry and this golden award continues to call today.
The statuette is of a knight with a sword, standing on a reel of film. Originally a flat design by MGM art director Cedric Gibbons, then turned into a three dimensional trophy that we have to day.
Prestige Awards has been operating in the awards and recognition business since 1983. Many trophies and awards are available for your recognition evenings, including replicas of the Oscar. See: http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/achievement-oscar-award
You could have your trophy, your medals or signage designed by Prestige Awards to your specifications. Custom made trophies are gaining popularity as schools, companies and clubs who need to differentiate themselves from other institutions. Excellence is the name of the game and we aim to help you to give recognition to your most excellent employees, school learners and club members.
The Oscar is made of solid bronze, coated in 24 karat gold. If you really want your trophy coated in gold, it is possible. More favoured are materials that represent gold, silver or bronze. Trophies are also made from aluminium, acrylics and resins, which can be enhanced with a number of different finishes. A trophy for every occasion, all in the name of excellence.
GIFTS FOR YOUR VALENTINE February 10 2017, 0 Comments
Roses are Red, Violets are Blue,
Prestige has gifts just right for for you
Gifts for your love on Valentines day are going to be a must. In America alone, it is estimated that 145 million Valentines cards are sent over this period. This excludes many that will be sent digitally. About 224 Million roses are grown in the USA, red ones, just for Valentines day. These are amazing statistics when you think about the industry and the impact it has on services and people.
The highest amount spent on gifts is $4.4 Billion on silver, gold and diamonds, mainly in the form of jewelry. So, have you thought of your gifts yet?
Prestige Awards is in the business of awards, rewards and gifts. We have ideal gifts for you, which are available on line or from our showroom in Ferndale, Randburg. Walk in at 427 York Ave or phone us on 011 781 0833. So, while Valentines Day is on your mind this weekend, pay a visit to www.prestigeawards.co.za and be on time with your gift.
Williams, Federer and Nadal January 29 2017, 0 Comments
Yesterday was a family affair, where two blood sister fought to win the ladies Australian Open championships. It is not the first time they have faced off in professional tennis. This was a record-breaking event, with Serena taking full honours. She was heard to have said, "Its a win for the family". Such was the spirit of her achievement, shared with the whole family, and no less with Venus and their fans.
Today, two more champions battle it out, providing enthralling tennis at it's best. What is it within a man when two games down, fights to win back his position and a whole lot of respect to boot. Such stamina, character, fortitude and grit is supported by the prospect of winning, raising trophies, wearing medals and many people from teachers, coaches and family giving their all for the reward, alongside. The duce! And now, 14:15 SA time - Federer wins the men's singles, Australian open, 2017. What champions!
TENNIS RACQUETS: EVOLUTION OR REVOLUTION January 25 2017, 0 Comments
THE TENNIS RACQUET
The man known as Slew was asked in the late 1970s about the changes in the equipment used to play tennis. He didn't hesitate. "You can play with a tomato can on a broomstick if you think you can win with it," he quipped. As the then-chairman of the US Tennis Association, his opinion carried.
But oh, how times have changed.
In 1993, Hester Slew died at the age of 80. During his lifetime he saw a game that evolved immensely. Wooden racquets became steel. (Jimmy Connors won at Wimbledon with a Wilson T2000 steel racquet). Steel became carbon. Carbon will - sooner rather than later become graphene.
Not all players used steel racquets, some being more comfortable with the wooden-frame models. Administrators were worried about the direction the sport was taking and questioned whether tennis drifting in a similar direction to motor sport where the game would be won or lost because of the technology and not the player?
Although Connors used metal until the mid-1980s, he soon found he was being left behind in the technology stakes. His rivals had shifted to more advanced designs and manufacturing techniques. Steel began to lose it’s shine but instead of returning to wood, other alternative were being explored. The result of all this innovation would herald a sport that was on its way to changing beyond all recognition.
Unlike Slew Hester, those responsible for tennis regulations today - the International Tennis Federation (ITF) - were bothered about technology. They keep tabs on everything - squishing every ball, for example, to ensure it makes the grade - bouncy, but not too much.
When the ITF looks at racquets its principal concern is whether they offer too much power. Given a free rein, a manufacturer could make a racquet so good at smacking the life out of a ball that the game of tennis would quickly descend into being little more than a serving competition. In other words, bone-dry boring. The awards and medals would then be highly predictable and spectators would dwindle.
The ITF tests racquet power using machines that move faster than the eye can follow. A computer calculates the speed of each ball. At 120 mph capability, the steel racquets fell well within the stated limits. However, to give some perspective of the power of players, Andy Murray delivered his fastest shot at a speed of 145 mph! A mind-blowing 233 km/h!
In the small Austrian town called Kennilbach, Head Inc., innovators of top racquets, set up shop. It is here that the champions Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray and Maria Sharapova’s raquets are manufactured to their precise specifications. Innovation for improvement is ongoing and there are many more materials in the wings, waiting to add to the exhilaration for the crowds, watching tennis balls flying at speeds previously thought impossible.
Awards are part of the drive to be great. See http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/search?q=tennis&x=0&y=0 for the trophies and awards available to you, for all your champions! And there is much more to come.
TENNIS AND TROPHIES January 19 2017, 0 Comments
TENNIS TROPHIES
It is Australian Open time again, the first on the annual calendar of four grand slam tournaments. Each year, about this time, tennis fans gather to watch the drama of hard-won tennis matches. Who will lift the final trophy is always top of mind but that is only a small part of this major competition. It is also who will get the medals along the way to victory and who might upset the cart by stealing a match from a favourite, right under their noses.
Lifting the winning trophy, a weighty, silver, perpetual cup is a dream most of us won’t realise in a lifetime but we can be part of the glory of victory it all when these awards are presented.
The Men’s Singles trophy, called the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup after a former Australian tennis champion, has a history. It bears hallmarks of London, dated 1906, making it 111 years old this year. Standing proudly at 43cm high, including the plinth, it bulges to an overall width of 39cm, including the impressive handles. The design was based on a large marble vase, dated second century AD, found in 1770 in what was the gardens of Emperor Hadrian’s villa. The original vase would have been of the best that Rome had to offer to satisfy the emperor and, therefore, represents the excellence that is dished up on the court today!
The trophy is what we see and applaud. What else awaits the winner? This year, the singles winners (both mens’ and women’s) can look forward to a cool $3.7 million, which translates into a neat 50 Million Rand. If you feel that a win is out of reach, you could bow out with 5 Million at the Quarter finals, which would at least buy you a new pair of shoes and a ticket home with a suite case full of change.
If you play tennis, coach tennis or are in charge of selecting the trophies for you club or school, have a look here:
http://www.prestigeawards.co.za/search?q=tennis&x=0&y=0 for a wide variety of options, and make your event a grand slam to remember.
Origins of Cricket January 11 2017, 0 Comments
Cricket originated in England during the late 16th century and became its national sport 200 years later. International cricket matches began in 1844 and 34 years later, test cricket was recognized, albeit retrospectively.
During the 19th and 20th centuries, the game of cricket spread and became a competitive sport that traversed language and culture. Today it’s the second most popular spectator sport in the world! However, its rise to popularity in the USA has been resisted by zealous supporters of baseball, one of the favoured summer sports in that country.
What would a game be without rules? How would one know who would lift the cup? The basic rules of cricket seem to have been understood from the beginning but being a game for gamblers, firm terms were needed to avoid arguments off the field. Formal written codes of practice and the Articles of Agreement were drawn up, purportedly by the second Duke of Richmond and one other. In 1744, the Laws of Cricket were recorded for the first time and some 30 years later the 'lbw' law and bat width was finalized.
Cricket continued quite uneventfully, interrupted only by major wars, owing to the lack of players and funding but curiously, on the eve of the Battle of Waterloo, British soldiers played a cricket match in the Bois de la Cambre park in Brussels, to be called later La Pelouse des Anglais, The Englishmen’s Lawn.
Bowling of the ball as we know it today was not always in fashion. 'Round arm bowling' as it is known gathered pace in the 1820s, causing concern among traditionalists and rule-makers. What would cricket be like today if Dale Steyn delivered under-arm balls to Adam Gilchrist! In 1889 the four ball over was replaced by a five ball over and then, by 1900, the current six ball over was introduced, which remained except for a short period of experimental eight ball over games, ending with the break out of the Second World War in 1939.
One of the most significant crises to hit international cricket was the suspension of South Africa from international competition in 1970, which lasted until 1993 when the South African Government’s apartheid policies began crumbling. It was then that South Africa was restored to international competition and regained its glory.
Test cricket is not for everyone. In the 1960s, English country teams started playing one-innings games which grew in popularity and in 1969, a limited overs national league was created. Limited overs cricket was further enhanced by television, high-speed camera’s allowing for ultra-slow motion replays and review, and digital technology. Cricket analysis was no longer dependent on sharp eyes and experience eye but evolved with the availability of more exact analytics, which has lead to the introduction of the third umpire.
Today, most schools play cricket and enjoy the input of coaches and umpires who have been seasoned by a heritage of over 300 years. Not only do the scholars play for coveted team trophies but for equally important awards such as ‘bowler of the year’, ‘best fielder’ and ‘most improved player of the season’. Supporters are also awarded tokens of appreciation in the form of shields and medals, which adds to the spirit of this wonderful game. Long live cricket!
RESOLUTIONS ARE FAMOUS January 05 2017, 0 Comments
The ten most commonly broken new year’s resolutions are:
- Loose weight; get fit
- Stop smoking
- Learn something new
- Eat healthier; diet
- Get out of debt; save money
- Spend more time with family
- Be less stressed
- Travel to new places
- Volunteer
- Drink less (presumably alcohol)
If this is the case, then looking around, we would expect to see many hard-working overweight smokers with a glass of grog, on their own hiding from the debt collectors! Sound familiar?
While new year is a time for reflection and an opportunity to start your race anew, it means checking what you really want to achieve and what exactly it would look like once you have achieved it. A new activity instead of a new outcome may just be the problem with our famous resolutions that fail. We need an outcome, represented by something tangible.
Imagine your resolution is engraved on a trophy. It describes in a few words what you had achieved and the date. The date is important. It is written in past tense so that you see it as an accomplishment. It is not a wish; it is a firm resolution.
Imagine, also, that along the way to achieving your resolution you have been awarded a medal for each step of the way. If you had resolved to travel to new places, the trophy might say “Arrived in Greece – 7 October 2017” (remember – past tense) and the medals would be steps along the way such as (1) “Map and Travel Evening with Family” – pretend it was a bronze medal. (2) The silver medal could be “Travel Agent Engaged” and (3), your gold medal for this achievement, “Tickets to Athens Bought.” By this stage, you are well on your way to achieving your resolution.
I like to call this your medal plan, which you can adopt for any endeavor and is especially useful for those famous resolutions that are somehow stashed away for most of the year and brought out for an airing during the excitement of another new year. So, along with us all at Prestige Awards where you could buy medals to make you resolutions more tangible, we wish you well along the journey to achieving your dreams in 2017.
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