Kissimmee, FL – May 5, 2023 – The Greater Orlando Sports Commission has unveiled its list of finalists for the 2023 SPORTYS. Two Osceola Heritage Park executives have earned nominations: Mary Burd, Assistant General Manager & Director of Finance at OHP, for the Best in Business Operations; and Robb Larson, General Manager of OHP, for Executive of the Year.

In her role as Assistant General Manager & Director of Finance, Mary Burd is responsible for overseeing the financial operations and fiscal health of OHP, establishing strategies that provide the facility with financial stability, and making recommendations to increase business and operational efficiency. Her leadership has been critical for OHP's long-term financial health and one of the reasons OHP continues to attract thousands of athletes across numerous sporting events each year. 

Robb Larson, General Manager of Osceola Heritage Park, has overseen the venue's operations and growth for the past two decades. Under his leadership, OHP has become one of the premier sports and entertainment destinations in Central Florida, hosting events such as the Special Olympics, Chelsea FC Training and Open Practice, and the Florida High School Athletic Association State Wrestling Championships, as well as hosting the training of Orlando City SC and home games for Orlando City B. Larson also oversaw the return of Mecum Auctions, the world's largest collector car auction, which set a record of $234 million in sales in 2023, and North America's premier country music festival, Country Thunder, which welcomed 50,000 weekend visitors to OHP in 2022. 

Shawn LaDouceur, Director of Marketing & Public Relations at Osceola Heritage Park, expressed his delight at the news. "We are thrilled to have Mary and Robb recognized as finalists in their categories for a SPORTYS Award. Their commitment to excellence and their dedication to the success of Osceola Heritage Park has made it a leading destination for sports events of all kinds, including making it home to three professional athletic teams: Orlando City SC, Orlando City B, and the newly announced Osceola Magic." 

The SPORTYS Awards are presented by Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute and honor sports business professionals who excel in their field, and whose contributions and impact are vital in making Greater Orlando one of the country's premier sports destinations. The 2023 SPORTYS will air on WKMG-TV News 6 and stream online on Saturday, June 17 at 7:00 PM with the winners being revealed during the broadcast.