The 1960 Victory Gala - 10/13/10

Pittsburgh Pirate Bill Mazeroski’s walk-off home run to defeat the New York Yankees in the 1960 World Series is still celebrated 50 years later — and now, for a charitable cause. The black tie dinner to benefit the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy and Pirates Charities raised funds for the support and installation of two tributes — a bronze commemorative sidewalk plaque in Oakland and the Bill Mazeroski statue outside of PNC Park. “Anytime you have an event that incorporates an outdoor component, and the weather cooperates, it’s a success,” says Bill Ferguson, development officer of corporate and government relations at the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy. The evening included screenings of video footage uncovered in Bing Crosby’s estate, including filming in the locker room, interviews with the team, and that infamous home run. “I think the players were extremely moved by it. The evening itself was a great event that brought people together to celebrate, in my mind, the most important sports event in Pittsburgh history.”

Photography by Megan Wylie Ruffing