Ukad Mascot Makeover For Beijing

UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) has revealed a new look for its anti-doping mascot to mark the launch of its education campaign for athletes ahead of the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Squeaky the duck was first unveiled 10 years ago, before London 2012, and is a symbol of an athlete’s commitment to clean sport education and remaining ‘squeaky clean’.

The rubber duck is presented to each athlete when they complete their Pre-Games Clean Sport education scheme ahead of a major competition, with UKAD working with national governing bodies and all home nations to reinforce the values of an anti-doping mindset.

To mark the build-up to Beijing 2022, the mascot has had a makeover, and now features the colours of the flag of China. The duck is rebranded ahead of each Olympic, Paralympic and Commonwealth Games, meaning athletes can collect unique versions of the duck throughout their careers.

Since London 2012, there have been eight versions of Squeaky, each in different colours that reflect the upcoming Games’ host country. Ahead of Beijing 2022, Squeaky has been brought to life in a series of animations and graphics designed to reinforce the various clean sport responsibilities for athletes.

UKAD’s Head of Education, Paul Moss, said, “Squeaky is a light-hearted image and campaign, which is easy and fun to share online and helps us to highlight the importance of clean sport education in the lead up to major sporting events.

“This is just one way of getting the message across to give athletes something they can be proud to associate with. Squeaky’s messaging is simple, athletes need to know their rights, responsibilities and the rules when it comes to anti-doping in the run-up to a major competition.”

Athletes and athlete support personnel will receive information regarding their Pre-Games Clean Sport education programme via their national governing body.

“Education is a core part of our work at UKAD and ahead of Beijing 2022 we will be delivering clean sport training to 194 athletes,” Moss added.

“In the lead up to these important Games, we are excited to share Squeaky with the incredible athletes who are heading to Beijing, which they can hold up as a testament to their completion of their clean sport education.”