2014 Southern Classic/Tunica Cancelled

[Greg/Diamond]

Has your plan for a total of four like DCC's changed? Johnnyt

PS: It is a shame about the cancel as you are one of the good guys for pool.

Yes, plans have definitely changed.

The Derby City Classic was not designed as a format for professional pool. I would not design a pro tour with low entries, short races and allow lesser players to see how they would do with champions. The DCC was designed for many other reasons as a Gathering of pool people for one. I'll probably talk about these reasons at some other time.


Tunica/Southern Classic was not just another Tournament to me. It was an attempt to lay a foundation for a pro tour. I believe we must have a corporate sponsor to fund a tour. After talking to various big sponsors a few things became clear. They said they weren't interested in looking at any proposal unless I could give them a few things. They wanted a season for pool or at least 4 events, with a least 3 to 5 year contracts. Of course a TV package must be included. Since I had been working with Harrahs with the DCC, I got to talk with some key people about my dream of starting a tour. It so happens Harrahs is the largest customer of Coors Beer with their 54 casinos. I had an in if I could create 4 successful events with a TV package. I knew I'd have to buy TV at first, but I thought it was worth a chance. I was given a chance with Tunica and if the numbers panned out there I had a chance with Atlantic City and Vegas. I was only planning 3 DCC like events. One every 4 months with a big TV blow out in Vegas. Now here I am, the first Tunica event was ok to them, not great. I told them give it a chance and it would get better. Then I dogged it.

 

[Greg/Diamond]

Greg, if it matters, I'd like to give my personal reasons for not going to the Southern Classic, in the hopes that it might reflect some portion of other people's decisions, which you might be able to use in making a future business decision.

DCC, whilst really REALLY expensive, was the one week that my wife and I enjoyed getting totally away and enjoying pool at a high high level. I saw Pagulayan run 15 and out in a One Pocket proposition game on a bet with Jay Helfert. Seeing that sort of stuff is why I go to DCC.

That being said, DCC pretty much "shoots our wad" for the entire year, as far as vacations go. I simply can't afford to pay that amount a second time during the year. To tell you the truth, I don't like spending it the first time, but the business deal has been made with the devil that is the Horseshoe casino, so I do what I must.

With the economy being what it is, if these tournaments were held at a less expensive/remote location, I would FIND a way to come up with the money to attend.

As it is, other than the pool, the Horseshoe casino makes for a pretty miserable vacation, IMHO. The pool makes up for going once per year, but I simply won't go to a second event if it is held at a casino. There is NOTHING else to do during the week at DCC except watch pool. Driving 30 minutes to get to a decent restaurant? No thanks. I expected it would be the same at the Southern Classic?

Russ

I understand your feelings. I realize it's expensive to go to a tournament and most people have to choose one as a vacation. I really appreciate people choosing the DCC as that event. I new everyone couldn't go to tunica. I felt by having room for 7ft tables I would get different bodies that could supply the numbers that make a tournament work. Remember I'm doing Tunica not as just another event, rather a second stop to get me 2 more tournaments and a chance for a tour.

 

[Greg/Diamond]

I personally think a Casino is the worst place to have a pool tournament. How much action would be going on, if not for the Casino getting most of it? I'm speaking only for the action part of pool. I personally know many players who drive straight to the casino every time they make a score, which takes that money out of circulation. Casino's springing up everywhere, was one of the worst things to hurt action playing pool.

I have to admit 15 to 20 years ago I wouldn't have chosen a casino for a tournament. I wouldn't want players to loose on non pool tables, but remember back then there was only Atlantic City or Vegas. Now there's a casino within an hour of practically everyone. I spent 10 years working with a hotel Executive West in Louisville. I liked many things and learned much. In the end I wasn't as important as I thought. A hotel knows how to check someone in, but then you are on your own. Pool people are 24 hr. people. Hotels can't keep you safe or feed you 24 hours. A casino is used to handling 24 hr people. They have money to add, a place to eat and sleep, room for pool tables, parking and security. I'm sorry some players loose their money to casino games. At least some of the money they loose goes back indirectly making the tournament successful. Some big pool gamblers say they felt more safe gambling on pool at a casino than a hotel.

 

[(((Satori)))]

Yes, plans have definitely changed.

The Derby City Classic was not designed as a format for professional pool. I would not design a pro tour with low entries, short races and allow lesser players to see how they would do with champions. The DCC was designed for many other reasons as a Gathering of pool people for one. I'll probably talk about these reasons at some other time.


Tunica/Southern Classic was not just another Tournament to me. It was an attempt to lay a foundation for a pro tour. I believe we must have a corporate sponsor to fund a tour. After talking to various big sponsors a few things became clear. They said they weren't interested in looking at any proposal unless I could give them a few things. They wanted a season for pool or at least 4 events, with a least 3 to 5 year contracts. Of course a TV package must be included. Since I had been working with Harrahs with the DCC, I got to talk with some key people about my dream of starting a tour. It so happens Harrahs is the largest customer of Coors Beer with their 54 casinos. I had an in if I could create 4 successful events with a TV package. I knew I'd have to buy TV at first, but I thought it was worth a chance. I was given a chance with Tunica and if the numbers panned out there I had a chance with Atlantic City and Vegas. I was only planning 3 DCC like events. One every 4 months with a big TV blow out in Vegas. Now here I am, the first Tunica event was ok to them, not great. I told them give it a chance and it would get better. Then I dogged it.

For what it's worth Id like to say that you sir are a man that I admire.

I would also like to echo the post earlier in saying dont give up. You have a solid plan for a legit pro tour that is still doable, there are still otions to make it work and I believe the reward will be worth many times the effort for you and the whole community. This experience is not a failure it is a step towards success. Take what you have learned from it and keep on towards your goal.

Persistence my man.

I love what Nepoleon Hill had to say about about persistence.

"Persistence is the power of will. Willpower and desire when properly combined make an irresistable pair. Persistence to an individual is what carbon is to steel. In uncounted thousands of cases persistence has stood as the difference between success and failure. It is this quality more than any other that keeps the majority of men from great accomplishment. They will try a thing, but as soon as the going gets tough they fold. Experience with thousands of people has proved that lack of persistence is a weakness commen to the majority of men. But it is a weakness that may be overcome by effort. If you are to accomplish the desire you have set for yourself, you must form the habbit of persistence. Things will get dark, it will seem as if there is no longer any resson to continue, Everything in you will tell you to give up and quit trying, and it's right here that the men are separated from the boys. It's right here that if you'll go that extra mile and keep going that the skys will clear, that you will see the first signs of abundance that is to be yours because you had the courage to persist. With persistence will come success."


I appreciate what you do and wish you success.

Success with big fields on 9 ft. tables

 

[Chicagoplayer]

I trust Greg-

Probably in today's financial environment and the pool world in general there can only be one Derby City. That will remain as our annual "reunion" so to speak, the one place where all brands of pool players can get together and have a blast for a few days. I will continue to support this event as long as Greg has the time and energy to put it on. Plus I like the guy and his low key partner Chad. :thumbup:

_____________________________________________

to do what's right and fair for himself and the players.

my belief is this is only temporary...:grin:

-CP

 

[1on1pooltournys]

I have to admit 15 to 20 years ago I wouldn't have chosen a casino for a tournament. I wouldn't want players to loose on non pool tables, but remember back then there was only Atlantic City or Vegas. Now there's a casino within an hour of practically everyone. I spent 10 years working with a hotel Executive West in Louisville. I liked many things and learned much. In the end I wasn't as important as I thought. A hotel knows how to check someone in, but then you are on your own. Pool people are 24 hr. people. Hotels can't keep you safe or feed you 24 hours. A casino is used to handling 24 hr people. They have money to add, a place to eat and sleep, room for pool tables, parking and security. I'm sorry some players loose their money to casino games. At least some of the money they loose goes back indirectly making the tournament successful. Some big pool gamblers say they felt more safe gambling on pool at a casino than a hotel.

Hey Greg you gave it a shot and it didn't work out no big deal! Maybe this will turn out to be a blessing and something else will come along. One thing good about casinos is when you show up to play poker!! :thumbup:

Hope your doing well

 

[fathomblue]

Bump for the night crew.

 

[genomachino]

Keep up the good work.....

I was waiting on completing paperwork with Harrahs Tunica before making this announcement, but they move at such a slow pace I didn't want to cause any spectators or players any problems with future planning.

The reasons are simple. The numbers just didn't work for the Casino or for Diamond. I am disappointed, but not mad at anyone or myself for trying. If anyone feels they would like more information I would be happy to answer questions in person or on line as best I can. thanks, Greg Sullivan

Yourself and mark have and are doing allot of good things for pool.

It's always a pleasure to meet up with you guys.

Good for the game.

Thanks gene........

 

[Black-Balled]

I am inclined to agree that this short-term hiccup is a long-term blessing.

Do not forget, Greg: you are successful. I believe your successes will continue and we will enjoy them with you.

All hail the Greg.

 

[daylate$short]

Not so!

I told them give it a chance and it would get better. Then I dogged it.

I don't accept that you dogged it. You put on a World Class Event but the numbers just didn't materialize to make it as good as the Casino needed. Whatever caused that can be debated, but it was not any fault of yours.

I will continue to support the DCC. I've only missed one in the last 10 years, and I plan on being there again this year.

Thanks for all you do for pool!

Charlie

 

[CJ Wiley]

The Tunica Open sponsored by OFF anti mosquito spray

I attended and played in both Southern Classics. I had a blast each year. I'll have fond memories of both events and met new pool friends that I hope I'll have for a lifetime.

Looks like I'll turn my attention to the DCC, etc. and whatever other events that Greg Sullivan and Mark Griffin promote. Or perhaps something CJ Wiley comes up with......

R.I.P. Southern Classic Tournament

Thanks to Greg, Chad, Pat, Jay, Ken......and everyone involved from Diamond, Accu-Stats, etc. that made it happen.

It was cool hanging out with you guys in Tunica, but now that it's gone I have to say it was the worst place in the world for a pool tournament. I know several people that got almost bit to death by mosquitoes and playing on a boat is just not a pleasurable experience. My second match was during the time the air conditioning wasn't working and was under the streaming video lights......it was unbearably hot, and humid most of the time. This attracts bugs......millions of bugs and insects of all shapes and sizes.

I haven't complained about it out of respect for the tournament, but now that it's cancelled PLEASE no one else get the urge to do anything there again......Las Vegas, Reno, or even the Oklahoma/Louisiana Casinos would be MUCH, MUCH Better. imho

One of the dedicated pool fans in Tunica trying to stay awake for the next round of matches. :D

 

[spktur]

It was cool hanging out with you guys in Tunica, but now that it's gone I have to say it was the worst place in the world for a pool tournament. I know several people that got almost bit to death by mosquitoes and playing on a boat is just not a pleasurable experience. My second match was during the time the air conditioning wasn't working and was under the streaming video lights......it was unbearably hot, and humid most of the time. This attracts bugs......millions of bugs and insects of all shapes and sizes.

I haven't complained about it out of respect for the tournament, but now that it's cancelled PLEASE no one else get the urge to do anything there again......Las Vegas, Reno, or even the Oklahoma/Louisiana Casinos would be MUCH, MUCH Better. imho

One of the dedicated pool fans in Tunica trying to stay awake for the next round of matches. :D

CJ is just a Texas wimp worrying about a few mosquito bites. By the way CJ, the reason they biting around the boat like that was they were afraid to carry you off to the woods because the big boys would take you away from them.

 

[thewhiffer]

There is no Harrah's in Detroit.

The Harrah's (Caesars) is in Windsor, Canada across the river.


They had a couple of WPBA events in Windsor way back when but didn't draw 2 dead flies to them.

I don't want to correct you but that would be 2 dead flies plus my wife and I. Actually, the turn out for the one I attended was quite good, the event was really enjoyable and the hotel, restaurants were reasonable.

 

[JoeyA]

You are good for pool.

Thanks for all of your efforts.

Keep the faith.

JoeyA

 

[dnschmidt]

In my opinion the only place to hold a fairly big sized pool tournament is Las Vegas. DCC and the Southern Classic had one thing in common. They were traps. You go to this place in the middle of nowhere and you're trapped in the casino until the event's over. That's the beauty of Vegas. Unlimited other stuff to do and places to eat. That's why I liked the U. S. Open ten ball so much this year, which apparently isn't going to happen next year, because I'm not trapped in the Rio. I can stay wherever I like, eat wherever I like, and be in a real city that has stores, movies, Wal-Marts and whatever. What the hell do you do in Tunica, MS? Before they build the casinos this area of the U. S. had the highest poverty level in the country. What attraction does Southern Indiana possess. Hell, Indiana's biggest city, Indianapolis, is nick named Naptown. If Indy is Naptown is the rest of the state called already dead and buried town? Indiana in Winter and Mississippi in the heat of Summer. What could be more appealing for a vacation?

 

[akaTrigger]

Tough decision, but the right one business-wise. Thank you for the previous events!

 

[Nostroke]

Tunica has nothing for anyone-no food, no scenery-Mosquito hunting is good-but thats about it.

It has NOTHING for the single guy for sure. I am being totally honest when i say i was there 10 days and other than a players gf, there was not one attractive female there the entire time. When i got back home, the first 10 secs in a grocery store, I saw 4 ladies who would give anyone in Tunica the 6 out in looks. Dead serious-it was unreal and Mississippi IS officially the number one State for obesity and you will get no argument from me.

When i went to the DCC for the first time i learned despite the Mint Julips, book info and all, Louisville Is NOWHERE NEAR THE SOUTH! It is evidently somewhere north of Canada. I ran into a vicious blizzard there one year and an Ice storm another year and 18-28deg temps most other years.

 

[Nostroke]

I don't want to correct you but that would be 2 dead flies plus my wife and I. Actually, the turn out for the one I attended was quite good, the event was really enjoyable and the hotel, restaurants were reasonable.

I was there too

 

[fathomblue]

It was cool hanging out with you guys in Tunica, but now that it's gone I have to say it was the worst place in the world for a pool tournament. I know several people that got almost bit to death by mosquitoes and playing on a boat is just not a pleasurable experience. My second match was during the time the air conditioning wasn't working and was under the streaming video lights......it was unbearably hot, and humid most of the time. This attracts bugs......millions of bugs and insects of all shapes and sizes.

I haven't complained about it out of respect for the tournament, but now that it's cancelled PLEASE no one else get the urge to do anything there again......Las Vegas, Reno, or even the Oklahoma/Louisiana Casinos would be MUCH, MUCH Better. imho

I suppose I've lived in and been to enough places during my life to disregard skeeters, for the most part. I honestly don't remember them AT ALL in 2012. Now, in 2013, I did see them swarm the sweet, thin-skinned folks, but they didn't bother me at all.

The absolute worst 2 places I've ever seen for skeeters has been in the Jonesboro, Arkansas area and Poplar Bluff, Missouri. Defintely because of the rice fields in Arkansas. Not sure why in Poplar, but probably just about the same reason.

As for things to do in Tunica........I went there for one reason only. It wasn't for a piece of tail or to eat high on the hog. I went to play pool. Eleven+ days of it. I never got tired and it never got old, even tho I racked more there than I ever have in my life (thanks Carson).

There were enough restaurants amongst all the casinos (and on the roads leading to the strip) that I didn't get burned out on Quizno's like I did in 2012. I just decided to venture out and explore.

With that said, the South probably isn't the best place for a tournament during the beginning of summer, but I'd go to Alaska in the dead of winter for a great pool event, if I could swing it.

Btw, were the lights really that hot on the TV TABLE, CJ?

I've just about come to the conclusion that pool players are like rain. All the conditions have to be absolutely perfect or it ain't gonna happen.

Sack up, folks. :thumbup:

 

[lfigueroa]

Tunica has nothing for anyone-no food, no scenery-Mosquito hunting is good-but thats about it.

It has NOTHING for the single guy for sure. I am being totally honest when i say i was there 10 days and other than a players gf, there was not one attractive female there the entire time. When i got back home, the first 10 secs in a grocery store, I saw 4 ladies who would give anyone in Tunica the 6 out in looks. Dead serious-it was unreal and Mississippi IS officially the number one State for obesity and you will get no argument from me.

When i went to the DCC for the first time i learned despite the Mint Julips, book info and all, Louisville Is NOWHERE NEAR THE SOUTH! It is evidently somewhere north of Canada. I ran into a vicious blizzard there one year and an Ice storm another year and 18-28deg temps most other years.

So now a pool tournament promoter, attempting to do good and get an event and tour off the ground, must worry about mosquitoes, weather, and the sex drive of the single man.

Unbelievable.

The food at ‘37 was excellent. I ate there a couple of nights over the course of two events and the food was outstanding. You should have tried it and pulled yourself away from Dunkin’ Donuts. And, if you're going to a pool tournament looking for love -- to paraphrase Johnny Lee -- you're looking in all the wrong places.

Lou Figueroa