National Thoroughbred racing association campaign gallops into Clio hall of fame

NEW YORK (Sept. 13, 2017) – The New York advertising agency DeVito/Verdi and the National Thoroughbred Racing Association took a victory lap of sorts this past week when their acclaimed radio ad campaign was named to the Clio Awards Hall of Fame.

The Clio Awards, one of the most prestigious international advertising awards shows, recognizes and honors creativity and innovation in the industry.  The organization’s judges announced this week that the NTRA campaign, “And They’re Off,” was one of two entries deemed worthy of the Hall of Fame in this year’s voting.

The commercials that comprised the NTRA campaign all followed a similar approach: a fast-talking announcer provides running play-by-play of an everyday outing or happening with the same brio as if he were calling an action-packed horse race. Invariably, all of these events fall short of the excitement and thrill of visiting a thoroughbred racetrack.

The two radio spots from the campaign that earned entry to the Clio Awards Hall of Fame were “Dinner Date” and “Walk The Dog.”

Hear additional radio ads from the campaign.

To be eligible for the Clio Awards Hall of Fame, entries must have won a gold award in a major international advertising show in the past.  The entries must also be at least five years old, with a first appearance or airing prior to 2012.

Since its debut in 2002, the “And They’re Off” campaign has garnered scores of advertising and creativity awards, including top prizes at Cannes, Clio, and Mercury award shows.

According to the Clio Awards, Hall of Fame selections are for “outstanding work from the past that has stood the test of time and cemented a place of honor and respect in the hearts and memories of consumers and advertising professionals alike.”

“We knew right from the gate that this campaign would be a winner,” said Ellis Verdi, president of DeVito/Verdi.  “And it’s an absolute thrill to see it recognized by the Clios for its Hall of Fame.  This is one of the most acclaimed and award-winning radio ad campaigns in history.  We’re so proud it’s been given its due.”