Eiffel Tower adorns Paris 2011 European Athletics Indoor Championships medals

A replica of the medal that will be awarded to competitors at the 2011 European Athletics Indoor Championships in Paris next March.

The image of an athlete running against the backdrop of the iconic Eiffel Tower, reflecting the rich tradition of athletics in the city, will adorn medals awarded to competitors at the 2011 European Athletics Indoor Championships in Paris.

The biggest athletics event on the world indoor calendar in 2011 will take place in the French capital city through 4-6 March.

A separate commemorative medal, circular in shape, has been designed to be distributed as mementos for the championships.

European Athletics has approved both medal designs presented by the Paris 2011 Organising Committee.

Commemorative medal for Paris 2011

The medals will be produced for the 26 disciplines contested in Paris next year. Following the tremendous success of French athletes at the European Athletics Championships in Barcelona this summer, a number of athletes, most notably sprint sensation Christophe Lemaitre, have become household names in France and across Europe.

A sellout crowd is expected for the three days of competition at the Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy venue.