Broadcast - National Winner:
Justin Burnett
“Veterans Day Feature” (11/10/11)
SPEED
Judges’ Comments:
A timely feature that demonstrates racing’s contributions beyond the track, this story’s effectiveness lies in its use of multiple sources and themes. It addresses a serious social issue with an updated approach and shows how racing can benefit society. This story meets all technical requirements while telling an inspiring story.
Broadcast - Local Winner:
Alan Cavanna
“NASCAR in the Classroom”
TV-WSOC
Judges’ Comments:
This story stood out because it appeals to a broader audience, thereby making racing more accessible. The reporter shows the complexity of racing by providing a behind-the-scenes look at the science and math engineering involved in the sport. Local viewers can see real-life application of concepts learned in academic classes by students who will be racing’s future, a unique approach to covering the sport.
Writing - Other Winner:
David Caraviello
“The Road to Relevance” (5/18/11)
NASCAR.com
Judges’ Comments:
This in-depth, behind-the-scenes piece about a NASCAR underdog provides an unvarnished look at the racing world. Without the exceptional narrative writing skills of this reporter, the story would not have been effective. However, the story’s strengths are two-fold: an interesting and relatable main character, plus a narrative structure that reveals the writer invested great time and energy in research, observation and interviews.
Writing - Daily Winner:
Don Coble
“Moment of Impact” (2/8/11)
Morris News Service/Florida Times-Union
Judges’ Comments:
Of all the death-of-Dale-Earnhardt stories, this one took the most courage to report. Using an unusual angle in covering this tragic anniversary, the writer captures the universal theme of guilt as experienced by survivors/those left behind. Thanks to seamless storytelling, readers have the opportunity to walk in Sterling Martin’s shoes, to relive the accident as if they were on the track themselves.
Photojournalism:
Will Lester
“Blown Up”
Inland Valley Daily Bulletin
Judges’ Comments:
Captures action not commonly seen in such photos. Excellent framing creates a sense of suspense and relates a story. Photo has “stopping power” causes a person to pause and examine the details.