In a competition like no other, Republic Airline employees and teams from around Indiana will face off against a 24-ton aircraft in the seventh annual Pulling For Wishes Plane Pull. Scheduled for Saturday, April 22, 2017, at Republic’s hangar near Indianapolis International Airport, the event primarily benefits the non-profit Indiana Children’s Wish Fund (ICWF), and will feature dozens of teams competing for the fastest time to pull an Embraer 175 aircraft.
“This is a wonderful event in support of a wonderful cause,” said Amy Chiappe, Republic’s Director of Inflight and a key organizer of the event. “Our people love a challenge and, most importantly, they love the chance to help provide a wish for a child. It’s become one of the real highlights of our calendar, and this year is no exception.”
In addition to providing support for the ICWF, this year’s event will help benefit programs and initiatives at Riley Children’s Foundation and Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St. Vincent, both leading Indianapolis organizations dedicated to the health and well-being of children.
“This event is great fun, and it’s amazing to watch people face off against a giant aircraft … and win,” said Terry Ceaser-Hudson, Executive Director of ICWF. “Most amazing of all, though, is how the people of Republic have really embraced our organization and its mission. We are truly blessed to have their support and love for our Wish children.”
To earn a spot in this charity tug-of-war, teams of 10 people must raise at least $500 in pledges or donations. Prizes are awarded for the three fastest pulls as well as for best team costume.
The event, which is free and open to the public, starts at 9 a.m. and will feature food, music and appearances by local celebrities including the Indiana Pacemates, Pacers mascot Boomer and the Colts Cheerleaders. This year’s event also will feature an extensive kid zone of activities sponsored by Kroger, including face painting, a bounce house, interactive games and aircraft tours.
Joe Staysniak, sports radio talk show host for 1070 The Fan and former Colts player, will serve as the master of ceremonies.
The evening of Saturday, April 22, Prime 47 in Carmel will host the Pulling for Wishes Plane Pull Gala, an exclusive cocktail attire tent experience, featuring a special performance by renowned comedian and impressionist Frank Caliendo.
For more information or to register a team, visit www.rjet.com or www.IndyWish.org, call the Indiana Children’s Wish Fund at (317) 913-9474 or email [email protected]. Registration deadline is April 14, 2017. Tickets for the evening gala can be purchased through ICWF.
Last year’s event raised more than $430,000 to benefit ICWF, which grants wishes to children ages 3-18 suffering life-threatening illnesses. ICWF has granted over 3,200 wishes to Indiana children during the past 33 years. Wishes include trips to Disney World, meeting celebrities, shopping trips, home computers and much more.
Since 2011, Republic’s Plane Pull has raised $1.4 million for ICWF.
The Pulling for Wishes Plane Pull is dedicated to the memory of Carmel resident Tyler Frenzel, who suffered from leukemia and passed away in 2004. Tyler’s wish to visit Disney World was granted by Indiana Children’s Wish Fund.
