With a turnaround time of just three and a half weeks, JGPR developed and executed a comprehensive media and public relations plan for the Pulitzer Electric Air Race.
SECTOR
Aviation
CLIENT
Pulitzer Electric Aircraft Race Steering Committee
GOAL
To raise awareness about the Pulitzer Electric Air Race, in Springfield, Ohio. The events were organized as a 100-year tribute to the original Pulitzer Trophy Race, originally held in 1925. The organizers are seeking to increase public awareness and confidence in flying — particularly electric aircraft — and to give attendees the opportunity to see, touch and experience aircraft firsthand.
Background
JGPR was hired less than four weeks before the start of the race. Organizers sought to boost visibility for this year’s event and lay the groundwork for stronger awareness and fundraising in future years.
With a turnaround time of just three and a half weeks, JGPR developed and executed a comprehensive media and public relations plan. The strategy focused on establishing local media connections in Ohio, promoting the six-day event schedule and producing a steady stream of press releases in the weeks leading up to the race day.
JGPR worked directly with the Pulitzer Electric Aircraft Steering Committee and took the lead on all media relations efforts.
Concept
In a matter of weeks, JGPR implemented an aggressive, multi-platform PR campaign to maximize reach and engagement. From Sept. 16, when the first media advisory was released, through Oct. 11, JGPR issues eight press releases highlighting key events, media opportunities and pilot features.
The team leveraged national and local media relationships to secure placements in top aviation publications and regional outlets, ensuring consistent coverage throughout the event’s run.
Components
Developed a comprehensive media strategy, including advisories, press releases, targeted outreach and pre-event interview coordination.
JGPR Account Manager Cody Shepard led publicity efforts, crafting stories about participating pilots and promoting individual race events to maximize sustained media interest.
Impact
In just 3 1/2 weeks, JGPR generated a combined audience reach of more than 4.2 million across social media, television and print, with an estimated publicity value exceeding $64,000.
WDTN, the NBC television affiliate in Dayton, and WKEF, the ABC affiliate, covered the opening days of the multiple-day event, speaking with organizers. The local newspaper, the Springfield News-Sun, also attended the opening STEM Day and produced a photo gallery and video. These placements helped draw public interest in the official race day event.
Each story delivered positive coverage that drew community members to the official race day and helped achieve the event’s goal of building public excitement and confidence in the future of electric flight.
