The world’s top auctioneers will gather in Bolingbrook, Ill., this week to compete for $25,000 in prize money at the 2004 Auctioneer World Championships, hosted by Manheim’s Arena Auto Auction on May 14-15. This year’s events include individual auctioneer and ringman competitions for trophies and cash prizes. The 16th annual event is considered “the Super Bowl for auctioneers,” according to Event Director Scotty Gray, who operates his family-owned Lakeside Auto Auction in Rockwall, Texas. He has been directing the event since 2000 and cherishes the championship for the camaraderie it fosters among auctioneers. The first-place auctioneer will receive $10,000. The winning ringman will receive $5,000. Each will also get a trophy.