A Wooden Medal for the Vertigo 2026 Charity Race
On May 21st, 2026, the Tour Légende in La Défense hosted a new edition of Vertigo, the iconic vertical charity race organized by Playground in support of the NGO Play International.
The concept remains unique in the French sports landscape: climb 822 stairs and 40 floors as fast as possible while supporting education-through-sport programs around the world.
For the 2026 edition, participants received a laser-engraved wooden medal certified Origine France Garantie, manufactured by Ultime Sport in its workshop located in Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse in the French Alps.
A French-Made Engraved Wooden Medal
The Vertigo 2026 medal is made from wood and customized through laser engraving.
Designed and produced by Ultime Sport in the Chartreuse mountains, this finisher medal highlights fully French manufacturing with French-sourced materials and local production certified Origine France Garantie.
The wooden finish gives the medal a natural identity consistent with the responsible and charitable values carried by the event. Laser engraving ensures a precise and detailed result while reinforcing the visual identity of this unique vertical race held in the heart of La Défense.
This French manufacturing process directly supports local craftsmanship and a more responsible approach to sports awards production.
A Unique Vertical Race in La Défense
Vertigo is considered the first vertical charity race in France.
The challenge is simple: reach the top of the Tour Légende by climbing:
- 822 stairs
- 40 floors
- 165 meters high
Participants could compete individually or as part of a four-person corporate relay team.
The finish line at the top of the tower offers a panoramic view over Paris and La Défense after an intense effort inside the building’s staircases.
Playground and Play International at the Heart of the Event
The race is organized by Playground in collaboration with the NGO Play International.
Funds raised through registrations help finance education-through-sport and play-based programs in several parts of the world where access to education remains difficult.
Play International notably operates in:
- Senegal
- Burundi
- the Balkans
Vertigo combines physical challenge, team cohesion and social impact through sport.
A Charity Village at the Foot of the Tower
Throughout the evening, the Vertigo Village welcomed participants and spectators with:
- DJ sets
- sports activities
- games and entertainment
- networking spaces
- massages
- a charity bar
The awards ceremony also took place inside this afterwork-style village designed to extend the experience beyond the race itself.
A Medal Reflecting the Spirit of the Event
Choosing an engraved wooden medal perfectly reflects the identity of Vertigo.
Produced in France by Ultime Sport, this award highlights French materials, local craftsmanship and a more responsible vision of sports medals.
The contrast between natural wood and the urban environment of La Défense perfectly symbolizes the spirit of this vertical race combining sport, solidarity and commitment.
FAQ Vertigo 2026 Medal
What material is used for the medal?
The Vertigo 2026 medal is made from engraved wood.
Where was the medal manufactured?
The medal was produced by Ultime Sport in Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse, France.
Does the medal have a certification?
Yes. The production is certified Origine France Garantie.
What does the Origine France Garantie label mean?
The certification guarantees that the materials come from France and that the manufacturing process takes place in France.
Who organizes Vertigo?
The event is organized by Playground in collaboration with Play International.
How many stairs did participants have to climb?
Participants had to climb 822 stairs.
How many floors does the tower have?
The course goes through 40 floors inside the Tour Légende.
How high is the tower?
The finish line is located 165 meters above ground.
What are the funds used for?
Funds collected help finance education-through-sport programs in several countries around the world.
Where does Vertigo take place?
The race takes place inside the Tour Légende in La Défense, near Paris.