How did you feel when you found out that your submission was the favourite after receiving the highest number of votes? 

All of the emotions. As someone who is utterly obsessed with designing, running and sportswear, it means a whole lot to me. It’s honestly a dream to get to work with the Wizz Air Hackney Half and to see my design on a HOKA T-shirt. 

Can you tell us about your design process, vision and approach for the event t-shirt? What inspired your design concept?

The inspiration behind the design was to try and replicate the buzz of Hackney on race day and those post-race feelings. I wanted to create a fun T-shirt with elements that represented the energy and effort of the race.

My graphic style is naturally bold and sporty, so I consciously used little mascots and stickers to keep the design fun. The course map graphic kind of happened organically around the Hackney “H” and then the rest of the design just fell into place. 

What does Hackney mean to you?

Hackney was my first experience of living in London when I moved here ten years ago and I’ve lived in East London ever since. It’s an inspirational place for designers to feel the creativity of the borough. 

What makes Hackney and the Wizz Air Hackney Half so different and unique?

Out of all of the races I’ve done there’s just a different atmosphere at Hackney, there’s a special buzz that no other race has. The energy from the supporters is something else. It’s a party the whole way round, but most importantly it is by far the coolest race. 

Can you describe any specific elements or features of the design that you feel particularly proud of or that hold special significance?

The course map will always hold special significance because the Wizz Air Hackney Half was my first ever race and really what started my obsession with running. 

Are there any hidden or subtle details in the design that people might not notice at first glance, but that you included for a specific reason?

I tried to make sure everything in the design is there for a reason. From the character setting off too fast, to gritting your teeth to get through the final miles. 

The heart is placed next to Victoria Park because that is my absolute favourite place to run, but it’s also on that specific spot because that’s where I overtook my mate in the 2019 race.

How does it feel seeing your design come to life? And how do you think it will feel to see over 20,000 wearing a t-shirt with your design on?

I think it will feel surreal to see finishers in the T-shirt because I’m so used to just staring at the design on a screen. 

I’m really looking forward to seeing where I’ll spot the T-shirt outside of Hackney post-race. I’m not sure I’ll be able to run around Victoria Park without seeing someone wearing it, but I don’t think I’ll ever tire of that. 

What are you most looking forward to at the Wizz Air Hackney Half?

I’m looking forward to finishing the race and seeing everyone enjoying themselves in their finishers T-shirts. That post-race atmosphere is unbeatable. 

Who would you love to see wearing your shirt crossing the finish line?

I’m looking forward to seeing my partner wearing it, she’s been super supportive throughout the process. But if it’s a celebrity/runner then I’ve got to go with the G.O.A.T, Courtney Dauwalter. 

We can’t wait to see all our fantastic 2024 participants in this year’s event tee.

All participants will receive their t-shirt ahead of the event, either via post (if you opted for race pack delivery), or when collecting your race pack on Friday 17th between 5-7pm or Saturday 18th May between 9am-6pm.

Miss out on a place this year? Make sure you register your interest for 2025 so you can be amongst the first to hear when tickets go on sale.