500 Festival Earns Six Awards In International Events Competition

The IPL 500 Festival Parade, top, and OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon are popular events during the 500 Festival in Indianapolis every May.

The 500 Festival, a vital part of the month of May and Indianapolis 500 every year, earned three first-place awards among the six honors it received earlier this month in the annual International Festival & Events Association/Haas & Wilkerson Pinnacle Awards.

Each year, the IFEA recognizes outstanding examples of quality and creativity in the promotional programs and materials produced by its 2,000 member festivals and events around the world. More than 1,500 entries were submitted in multiple categories for the 2005 Pinnacle Awards, which were presented in San Antonio.

"We're happy that the outstanding work of the 500 Festival staff and volunteers has been recognized with these awards," said Joie Chitwood, Indianapolis Motor Speedway president and chief operating officer. "The Festival enhances the Indianapolis 500 in so many ways, as people across Indiana and the world look forward to Festival events every May."

The 500 Festival won these Gold Pinnacle Awards:

•Best T-Shirt Design: 2005 OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon T-shirt

•Local Television Broadcast: 2005 IPL 500 Festival Parade on WISH-TV 8

•Best New Event within an Event: 2005 Remote Mini-Marathons in Afghanistan and Iraq

The 500 Festival earned this Silver Award:

•Best Education Program: 500 Festival and Indianapolis 500® Education Program

The 500 Festival won these Bronze Awards:

•Best Event Photograph: OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon Start Line (photo by Banayote Photography)

•Miscellaneous Clothing: 500 Festival Snakepit Ball Doo-Rag

The judges for the IFEA/Haas & Wilkerson Pinnacle Awards are recognized professionals in the areas of graphics, promotions and public relations, broadcast and special events planning and management, according to the IFEA.

The mission of the 500 Festival, which originated in 1957, is to produce events and programs that celebrate the success of the Indianapolis 500-Mile Race and enhance the quality of life for the citizens of Indiana and their guests. These events and programs, produced largely by more than 7,000 volunteers, enhance the image of the city and state by showcasing their cultural, educational and social benefits to the world.

With annual participation of more than 425,000 people from around Indiana and the world, the 500 Festival has grown to be one of the largest festivals in the nation.

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2006 Indy 500 tickets: Fans are encouraged to submit their ticket orders for the 90th Indianapolis 500 on May 28, 2006 to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway as soon as possible. The most convenient, fastest method is online at www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com. Fans also can purchase tickets, camping or parking for the 90th Indianapolis 500 through the IMS ticket office at (800) 822-INDY.


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