Connie Austin of Sarasota, Fla.-based Coast to Coast Getaways was recently named the $10,000 grand prize winner in Carnival Cruise Lines’ “Book Five & Win” contest, which ran from August through October. In addition, 40 travel agents won $1,000 cash prizes as part of the contest, making the total giveaway to travel agents $50,000.

To qualify for the contest, travel agents simply needed to enter their bookings during the contest period on GoCCL.com, the line’s travel agent Internet portal. Travel agents who made five bookings were entered into the contest for one of 40 $1,000 cash prizes or the $10,000 grand prize. Winners were randomly selected.

Pictured here with an oversized $10,000 check are (from left): Coast to Coast Getaways COO Larry Biondi, President/Owner Jose Martinez, and VP of Operations Brenda Cooley; Carnival Business Development Manager Judy Rowe; grand prize winner Connie Austin; and Carnival’s Divisional VP of Trade Sales Kirk Neal

“We absolutely loved this contest as it not only showed travel agents how much we appreciate them, but because it’s so fun to surprise them with cash gifts right before the holidays,” said Joni Rein, Carnival’s vice president of worldwide sales. “It’s the perfect way to end the year on a celebratory note.”

A complete list of “Book Five & Win” winners may be found on GoCCL.com.