Big Walk Trophies: What They Are & How to Win

Big walk trophies are awards given for completing long-distance walking events, typically covering 20 miles (32 km) or more in a single day. You enter a race or challenge, finish the distance within the time limit, and receive a physical trophy, medal, or commemorative item. This article covers the types of events, how the awards work, how to choose one, common pitfalls, costs, and training considerations.

Formula

The calculator above works out your average walking pace and speed for a given distance and finish time. The formulas are:

Pace (min/km) = Finish time (minutes) ÷ Distance (km)

Speed (km/h) = Distance (km) ÷ (Finish time (minutes) ÷ 60)

Where:

• Finish time is the total time from start to finish, in minutes.
• Distance is the official course length, in kilometers.
• Pace is the average time per kilometer, in minutes per kilometer.
• Speed is the average movement speed, in kilometers per hour.

For miles, divide the distance in km by 1.60934, or multiply pace in min/km by 1.60934 to get min/mile.

Worked Example

Using the default values from the calculator above: a 42.2 km walk (a marathon distance) completed in 480 minutes (8 hours).

1. Pace = 480 ÷ 42.2 = 11.37 min/km (rounded to 2 decimals).
2. Speed = 42.2 ÷ (480 ÷ 60) = 42.2 ÷ 8 = 5.28 km/h.

So the average pace is about 11 minutes 22 seconds per kilometer, and the average speed is 5.28 km/h. That is a typical recreational walking pace for a long event.

What Counts as a Big Walk Trophy?

There is no single governing body that defines a “big walk trophy,� but the term generally refers to awards from events that require sustained endurance. Common categories include:

• Marathon walks – 42.2 km (26.2 miles), often with a cutoff of 7–9 hours.
• Ultra walks – 50 km, 100 km, or even 100 miles, sometimes held over 24–48 hours.
• Long-distance challenges – organized walks of 20–30 miles on trails or roads, often with a time limit.
• Charity walks – events like the London MoonWalk or the Susan G. Komen 3-Day, which give medals or trophies to finishers.

Some events give the same trophy to every finisher; others have tiered awards for first place, age groups, or fastest time. The trophy itself can be a metal medal, a glass or acrylic statue, a plaque, or a specially designed keepsake.

How the Award System Works

Most big walk events follow a simple rule: finish the course within the cutoff time, and you get the trophy. The cutoff is usually based on an average pace that is slower than a typical walker’s speed. For example, a marathon walk with an 8-hour cutoff allows a pace of 11.37 min/km (18.3 min/mile), which is comfortable for most healthy adults.

Some events require checkpoints along the route. You must reach each checkpoint by a certain time or you are asked to withdraw. This prevents walkers from falling too far behind and being out on the course after dark or when support stations close.

For competitive walkers, there may be separate awards for:

• Overall male and female finishers
• Age group winners (e.g., 20–29, 30–39, etc.)
• Masters (usually 40+) categories
• Team or relay divisions

These awards are typically presented at a ceremony after the event, while the finisher trophy is given at the finish line or mailed later.

How to Choose a Big Walk Event

If you want to earn a big walk trophy, consider these factors:

• Distance – Start with a distance you can complete comfortably. A 20-mile walk is a good first goal; a marathon walk requires more training.
• Terrain – Road walks are faster and easier to pace; trail walks have hills and uneven ground, which slow you down.
• Cutoff time – Check the official cutoff. If it is generous (e.g., 10 hours for a marathon), you have more margin for rest breaks.
• Support – Events with aid stations every few miles are easier than self-supported walks where you carry everything.
• Cost – Entry fees range from free community walks to several hundred dollars for large charity events. The trophy is often included in the fee.
• Reputation – Look for events that have been run for several years and have published results. That indicates a well-organized course.

Read past participant reviews to learn about actual cutoff enforcement, course conditions, and whether the trophies are as described.

Common Problems and Misconceptions

A frequent misconception is that walking a long distance is easy and requires no training. In reality, walking 20–30 miles stresses your feet, joints, and back. Blisters, chafing, and muscle soreness are the most common issues. Many events have medical tents, but you should carry your own blister kit.

Another issue is cutoff times. Some walkers assume that if they finish, they get the trophy, but events with strict checkpoints may pull you off the course if you fall behind. Always know the checkpoint schedule and keep a buffer.

Also, “big walk trophy� is sometimes used colloquially to describe any participation award, even for short 5K walks. If you want a true endurance trophy, verify the distance and cutoff before registering.

Finally, some events give a separate medal for completing a series (e.g., three walks in a year). That is not the same as a single-event trophy, so check what you are actually earning.

Costs and What You Get

The cost of a big walk event varies widely. A local club walk might cost $10–$30 and give a simple ribbon or small medal. A large marathon walk can cost $50–$150 and includes a finisher medal, a T-shirt, and aid station food. Charity events often have a minimum fundraising requirement of $500–$2,500, but the trophy is usually included once you meet that goal.

Some events charge extra for a personalized trophy (engraved with your name and time). Others mail trophies after the event for an additional shipping fee. Always read the registration page to see what is included.

If you are on a budget, look for “virtual� walk events. You walk the distance on your own time, submit proof, and the trophy is mailed to you. These are often cheaper, but you miss the group atmosphere and on-course support.

Training and Safety Considerations

To finish a big walk and earn your trophy, follow these guidelines:

• Build mileage gradually – Increase your longest walk by no more than 10% per week to avoid injury.
• Practice with your gear – Wear the shoes and socks you plan to use on race day. Break them in over several shorter walks.
• Hydrate and eat – Drink about 500 ml (17 oz) of water per hour, and consume 30–60 grams of carbohydrates per hour during the walk.
• Know the signs of heat illness – Dizziness, nausea, or confusion mean stop and seek help. Do not push through.
• Use the calculator above – Input your planned finish time and distance to see if your pace is realistic. For a first marathon walk, aim for a pace of 12–13 min/km (19–21 min/mile).

If you have any health conditions, check with a doctor before undertaking a long-distance walk. The trophy is not worth a serious injury.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to run to get a big walk trophy?

No. Big walk trophies are specifically for walkers. Many events require that you maintain one foot on the ground at all times (the definition of race walking), but most long-distance walking events simply require you to keep moving forward. You can walk at any pace as long as you finish within the cutoff.

What is the average time to finish a marathon walk?

For a 42.2 km walk, most recreational walkers finish in 7–9 hours. That is an average pace of 10–13 min/km (16–21 min/mile). The calculator above can help you find your pace for any target time.

Can I walk a marathon without training?

It is possible but not recommended. Walking 42.2 km without preparation often leads to severe blisters, joint pain, and extreme fatigue. A 12-week training plan that gradually builds your longest walk to 30–35 km is a safer approach.

Are virtual walk trophies the same as in-person ones?

Usually the trophy or medal is identical, but virtual events do not have on-course support, aid stations, or official timing. You also miss the communal experience. If you only care about the physical trophy, virtual is fine; if you want the full event, choose in-person.

What should I do if I miss the cutoff time?

You typically do not receive the finisher trophy, but some events give a “participant� medal or certificate. Check the event rules. If you miss a checkpoint, you may be asked to take a shortcut or be transported to the finish. Always read the policy before the event.

How do I find big walk events near me?

Search for “walking events� or “ultra walk� plus your region. Websites like Race Roster, Active.com, and local running clubs list walking events. Charity organizations often host walks with trophies, and many are open to the public.

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in t | Finish time | min | 480 | 0
in d | Distance | km | 42.2 | 0 | 100000
out pace | Average pace | min/km | t / d | 2
out speed | Average speed | km/h | d / (t / 60) | 2