SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) - The California Capital Airshow has been awarded the International Council of Air Shows (ICAS) Pinnacle Gold Award for its partnership with the City of Rancho Cordova on the #InspireTheFuture campaign – a special effort that provided 3,600 students and parents with free tickets to the 2017 California Capital Airshow. Every school in Rancho Cordova received free airshow tickets, valued at nearly $175,000 And, on Aug. 24, 2017, these tickets were delivered in a memorable and inspiring way—via Blackhawk helicopter. 

The 2nd annual Operation #InspiretheFuture kicked off with 1,100 students gathering for an outdoor assembly when they were surprised to see pilots from the California Army National Guard land a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter at Dave Roberts Community Park to deliver "Top Secret" cargo boxes filled with backpacks containing free Airshow tickets. 

"We are proud and grateful to be recognized with the California Capital Airshow for the City's efforts in delivering free Airshow tickets to thousands of students in our community," said Cyrus Abhar, City Manager of Rancho Cordova. "We knew that Operation #InspiretheFuture was a success as soon as we saw the faces of students light up as pilots landed a Blackhawk helicopter to deliver free tickets for the Airshow. It is certainly something we were excited to be a part of, and we are happy the students enjoyed it and were inspired by it." 

The California Capital Airshow attracts over 100,000 spectators to the City for a heart-pounding lineup of performances and entertainment that the whole family can enjoy. The Airshow teaches students about Rancho Cordova's military history, introduces students to STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) through interactive exhibits, and provides an up-close opportunity to experience the thrill of flight. 

The purpose of the Pinnacle Awards program is to maintain and expand ICAS's efforts in ensuring that innovative thinking, fresh approaches, and creative solutions receive the attention and publicity that they deserve.