diff --git a/askbot/models/__init__.py b/askbot/models/__init__.py
index 05153b2b..76dc438b 100644
--- a/askbot/models/__init__.py
+++ b/askbot/models/__init__.py
@@ -3252,6 +3252,11 @@ def record_award_event(instance, created, **kwargs):
     We also recaculate awarded_count of this badge and user information.
     """
     if created:
+        try:
+            badge = get_badge(instance.badge.slug)
+        except KeyError:
+            return
+
         #todo: change this to community user who gives the award
         activity = Activity(
                         user=instance.user,
@@ -3265,8 +3270,6 @@ def record_award_event(instance, created, **kwargs):
         instance.badge.awarded_count += 1
         instance.badge.save()
 
-        badge = get_badge(instance.badge.slug)
-
         if badge.level == const.GOLD_BADGE:
             instance.user.gold += 1
         if badge.level == const.SILVER_BADGE: