CHICAGO -- The Chicago Cubs today announced Geneine Dietz - a resident of Wilmette, former gameday usher of 10 seasons and a lifelong Cubs fan - won the Cubs Charities World Series Ring Raffle. Ironically, from more than 25,000 raffle tickets sold, Dietz's randomly selected winning ticket number of 001907 corresponds with the year of the team's first World Series championship. The 2016 World Series Ring offered through this raffle was donated by Jostens and is the only player-grade version available for fans to own.
"It's a wonderful honor and privilege to receive a World Series Ring from the Chicago Cubs. I would like to thank the Ricketts family and the entire Cubs organization for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and gift," said Geneine Dietz. "My friends and family are giddy with excitement and I can't wait for them to see the ring for themselves. For generations to come, I know my family will take special care of the beautiful World Series Ring!"
The ring, which commemorates the team's historic 2016 season, is made from 14-karat white gold. Its top features the traditional Cubs bullseye logo masterfully crafted from 33 custom-cut genuine red rubies surrounded by 72 round white diamonds, all within a circular perimeter made up of 46 custom-cut, genuine blue sapphires. The bezel is surrounded by 108 round, white diamonds lifting the Cubs logo to victory and signifying the end of a historic 108-year championship draught. Overall, the ring contains 214 diamonds at 5.5 carats, 3 karats of genuine red rubies and 2.5 karats of genuine sapphires.
"Last year's World Series journey was remarkable and so is the dedication of our fans. We launched the Ring Raffle to give them the unique opportunity to win arguably one of the most prestigious championship rings in all of sports with proceeds benefiting Cubs Charities," said Mike Lufrano, Cubs executive vice president of community affairs. "We are thrilled to share this special player-grade ring with a lifelong Cubs fan who will get to treasure this piece of history with her family and friends."
The raffle generated more than a quarter of a million dollars to benefit Cubs Charities, which increases access to sports opportunities and targets improvements in health, fitness and education for those at risk. For more information, visit www.cubs.com/ringraffle.
About Cubs Charities:
Cubs Charities harnesses the passion of Cubs fans to improve the lives of children and families across Chicago and beyond. Cubs Charities' goal is to provide increased access to sports opportunities and targets improvements in health, fitness and education for those at risk. Through grants to quality nonprofit programs, development of parks and baseball fields, and other community initiatives, the Cubs and Cubs Charities help fulfill a commitment to be the best in the game, on and off the field. For more information, visit www.cubscharities.org.