Can anyone tell me about the DCC?

Rocket354

Rocket354

AzB Silver Member
Silver Member
I'm thinking of attending the '23 Derby City Classic. I've never been and searching threads has yielded a little but not a whole lot of the information I'm looking for (there are a lot of threads discussing the events and results which makes searching for answers to the more logistical questions harder).

My questions, in no particular order:

1) The website has the TV VIP seats listed as sold out, but others as available. However for those other options it says: "The Derby City Classic shop is closed. If you are wanting to purchase tickets please do so at the event." Er, if I wait until I get there would I still get tickets?

2) The tickets all seem to be for a single-table arena. If I didn't purchase tickets, what would I have access to watch (I'm thinking like early rounds, etc)? Any cost? Any seating, or SRO for these other areas?

3) I would almost certainly not be a participant in the events (C+ player, here) but would love to play some casually or low-stakes action. What options would there be for me at or nearby the event?

4) The schedule isn't 100% clear to me. Do they backload all the final rounds for the events to the last three days? Could I then only watch anything with tickets if they'd all be in the TV arena?

5) Are there any other nearby attractions if I wanted a little time away?

Also, anything else that might be pertinent. Much appreciated!
 
Never been, always want to go, it is Super Bowl of 9 Ball, Banks, and One pocket.

Book now should be great way to spend time watching best of best.
 
Rocket354 said:
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4) The schedule isn't 100% clear to me. Do they backload all the final rounds for the events to the last three days? Could I then only watch anything with tickets if they'd all be in the TV arena?
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As for your question 4, here was the schedule for the 2022 DCC: https://derbycityclassic.com/event-info/. Note that the final rounds for the 4 main events (including the Bigfoot 10-Ball) were scheduled for Days 4, 5, 7, and 9 of play (One-Pocket actually carried over to Day 8). So, no, the events' finals are not all backloaded to the last three days, but they do put them all in the Accu-Stats streaming arena.
 
Rocket354 said:
I'm thinking of attending the '23 Derby City Classic. I've never been and searching threads has yielded a little but not a whole lot of the information I'm looking for (there are a lot of threads discussing the events and results which makes searching for answers to the more logistical questions harder).

My questions, in no particular order:

1) The website has the TV VIP seats listed as sold out, but others as available. However for those other options it says: "The Derby City Classic shop is closed. If you are wanting to purchase tickets please do so at the event." Er, if I wait until I get there would I still get tickets?

2) The tickets all seem to be for a single-table arena. If I didn't purchase tickets, what would I have access to watch (I'm thinking like early rounds, etc)? Any cost? Any seating, or SRO for these other areas?

3) I would almost certainly not be a participant in the events (C+ player, here) but would love to play some casually or low-stakes action. What options would there be for me at or nearby the event?

4) The schedule isn't 100% clear to me. Do they backload all the final rounds for the events to the last three days? Could I then only watch anything with tickets if they'd all be in the TV arena?

5) Are there any other nearby attractions if I wanted a little time away?

Also, anything else that might be pertinent. Much appreciated!
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1) Just my 0.02 but the VIP tickets are VASTLY overrated. I prefer to sit in the risers, as this offers (what I think to be) a much better view of the action on the TV table. Because I prefer the riser seats (which you get to sit in for free if you enter an event), I know nothing about purchasing the seats close to the TV table that I tend to not prefer.

2) Even if you don't purchase tickets for the TV table, you still have access to TV table risers (as I said, they are better in my view) and you have access to watch every other match in the ballroom provided that you paid admission for the day or entered an event. It is slightly cheaper to enter an event than pay admission for the whole week--this is why so many players opt to enter the event--even weaker players. There is a balcony on the second floor that offers great views of multiple matches. These seats cost only the daily admission fee or you can enter an event.

3)There are basically no extra tables. When there are extra tables, guys are matching up or warming up for the next match. This is not the best environment for "friendly" action with your buddies. If you want to just hit a few balls, wake up early and hit the tables. This is about the only time it is easy to find a table.

4) The finals are not back loaded. I think the Banks Final is Monday or Tuesday night. I think the One Pocket Final is normally scheduled for Thursday or Friday, but I believe they have run late in the past. However, by Wednesday most of the one pocket matches are pretty good, and nearly all are by Thursday.

I have been to the Derby every year since 2015 and once in the Executive West, maybe around 2003. There is nothing like the Derby. I enjoy it and look forward to it every year.

kollegedave
 
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#5. There are really no other close by things to see and do except for the Casino.
The Derby itself is fantastic so I wouldn’t worry about it.
You may want to book your rooms early because those will fill up.
If your going to stay for more than a few days bring food and drink. There are only a few food choices at the Casino.
 
kollegedave said:
1) Just my 0.02 but the VIP tickets are VASTLY overrated. I prefer to sit in the risers, as this offers (what I think to be) a much better view of the action on the TV table. Because I prefer the riser seats (which you get to sit in for free if you enter an event), I know nothing about purchasing the seats close to the TV table that I tend to not prefer.

2) Even if you don't purchase tickets for the TV table, you still have access to TV table risers (as I said, they are better in my view) and you have access to watch every other match in the ballroom provided that you paid admission for the day or entered an event. It is slightly cheaper to enter an event than pay admission for the whole week--this is why so many players opt to enter the event--even weaker players. There is a balcony on the second floor that offers great views of multiple matches. These seats cost only the daily admission fee or you can enter an event.

3)There are basically no extra tables. When there are extra tables, guys are matching up or warming up for the next match. This is not the best environment for "friendly" action with your buddies. If you want to just hit a few balls, wake up early and hit the tables. This is about the only time it is easy to find a table.

4) The finals are not back loaded. I think the Banks Final is Monday or Tuesday night. I think the One Pocket Final is normally scheduled for Thursday or Friday, but I believe they have run late in the past. However, by Wednesday most of the one pocket matches are pretty good, and nearly all are by Thursday.

I have been to the Derby every year since 2015 and once in the Executive West, maybe around 2003. There is nothing like the Derby. I enjoy it and look forward to it every year.

kollegedave
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Thanks, this is all very helpful. So it sounds like there are separate admissions? So I'd have to pay each day to enter and then an extra $105 if I wanted a VIP finals pass? Or it's one or the other? I hope I don't sound like an idiot but from looking at their web site I have no clue what I'm getting for each price. I see daily PM general admission is $9, $15 for VIP, then $105 for a finals three-day VIP pass (then $185 for a 9-day VIP event pass and $240 for VIP TV). What's the difference in those VIP levels? What do I get for $15/day VIP that I don't get at $9 general, and what do I get for $105 three-day pass VIP that I don't get for $15x3=$45 three individual VIP day passes?

Risers sound good, but with my back I like having a back to my chair.

Basically I'm trying to decide whether or not to go for the full 8/9 days or some shortened trip (the final 3/4 days) since PTO is at a premium. I'd like to know what my options are and what I'd be facing cost-wise.

And, regardless, it sounds like if I want to actually play then I should sign up for an event. So that right there suggests a shorter trip might be in the cards, regardless of the general/VIP level. But I'd be happy to pay for close-in seats in the TV arena...if I could.
 
Poolhall60561 said:
#5. There are really no other close by things to see and do except for the Casino.
The Derby itself is fantastic so I wouldn’t worry about it.
You may want to book your rooms early because those will fill up.
If your going to stay for more than a few days bring food and drink. There are only a few food choices at the Casino.
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Thanks for the tip. Do the rooms allow for cooking/food prep, or by "bring food" you mean prepackaged/durable items?
 
These are basic rooms, NO kitchen, small fridge and maybe a microwave.
Since the food options are limited I would fill a cooler with stuff especially if your there for more than a few days.
I remember seeing a picture of Busty and Efren in their room years ago with all types of groceries and a rice cooker
 
Rocket354 said:
Thanks, this is all very helpful. So it sounds like there are separate admissions? So I'd have to pay each day to enter and then an extra $105 if I wanted a VIP finals pass? Or it's one or the other? I hope I don't sound like an idiot but from looking at their web site I have no clue what I'm getting for each price. I see daily PM general admission is $9, $15 for VIP, then $105 for a finals three-day VIP pass (then $185 for a 9-day VIP event pass and $240 for VIP TV). What's the difference in those VIP levels? What do I get for $15/day VIP that I don't get at $9 general, and what do I get for $105 three-day pass VIP that I don't get for $15x3=$45 three individual VIP day passes?

Risers sound good, but with my back I like having a back to my chair.

Basically I'm trying to decide whether or not to go for the full 8/9 days or some shortened trip (the final 3/4 days) since PTO is at a premium. I'd like to know what my options are and what I'd be facing cost-wise.

And, regardless, it sounds like if I want to actually play then I should sign up for an event. So that right there suggests a shorter trip might be in the cards, regardless of the general/VIP level. But I'd be happy to pay for close-in seats in the TV arena...if I could.
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On admissions, you can buy an admission every day like you are going to the movies. The single day admission allows you to go all over everywhere...for a day. However, after you buy a few admissions, to some people it is worth it to just enter instead, as they can attend the tournament without worrying about the admissions and they get the experience of playing.

I have been once for the full 9 days. I have to tell you that I love pool, but doing the 9 days (for me) was pretty rough. Although, that was one year when I went two and out--that dang Chang Jung-Lin! I go Saturday and drive back Thursday...generally. I find that to be enough, but maybe you would like more or less DCC, I don't know.

kollegedave
 
Rocket354 said:
Thanks, this is all very helpful. So it sounds like there are separate admissions? So I'd have to pay each day to enter and then an extra $105 if I wanted a VIP finals pass? Or it's one or the other? I hope I don't sound like an idiot but from looking at their web site I have no clue what I'm getting for each price. I see daily PM general admission is $9, $15 for VIP, then $105 for a finals three-day VIP pass (then $185 for a 9-day VIP event pass and $240 for VIP TV). What's the difference in those VIP levels? What do I get for $15/day VIP that I don't get at $9 general, and what do I get for $105 three-day pass VIP that I don't get for $15x3=$45 three individual VIP day passes?

Risers sound good, but with my back I like having a back to my chair.

Basically I'm trying to decide whether or not to go for the full 8/9 days or some shortened trip (the final 3/4 days) since PTO is at a premium. I'd like to know what my options are and what I'd be facing cost-wise.

And, regardless, it sounds like if I want to actually play then I should sign up for an event. So that right there suggests a shorter trip might be in the cards, regardless of the general/VIP level. But I'd be happy to pay for close-in seats in the TV arena...if I could.
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First, there are plenty of threads on here talking about the event and everything around it. You got to do some more searching. Tickets haven't gone on sale yet so don't worry about the status in the online store.

There are VIP chairs around the tv table and then vip chairs on risers farther back in their front rows. Those are the VIP seats. All right on the map on the website. General seating risers with no backs blow for hours of seating. The rest of the event room there are just tables around the main room where you might be able to get a seat right at the table or else stand. There might be a row of bleachers up top for looking down on main room, can't remember. VIP seats don't get you anything outside of the TV arena other than GA admission to rest of matches.

Which events do you want to watch? The final three days are not the best unless those are the events you want to see. On Thursday you will see 1P dragging all day screwing up the schedule until the final match and then the usual run of the mill 9 Ball then and the rest of the days. The Bigfoot if you like that combined with all the Banks is great to spectate and what makes the event unique.

Are you going to be driving a car. If not playing, and have a car (and know how to drive in winter) then you got lots of options. Don't fall for the comments that you have to stay at the casino the whole time and there is nothing else close by, etc. It is an easy little one county road drive 9 miles back up to New Albany. There are plenty of restaurants there and right over the bridge in Louisville. Don't forget the Rustic Frog. Also perfectly fine hotel options in New Albany too.

Also there is the entirely separate Action Room where those seats are controlled by PoolActionTV.

You are going to get all the same opinions here that have been mentioned in another dozen threads on this site. Good luck.
 
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It used to be if you play in any of the events you had access to the arena every day . It is cheaper to play and have access your entire stay than to buy multiple passes.
huck
 
Joe_Jaguar said:
First, there are plenty of threads on here talking about the event and everything around it. You got to do some more searching. Tickets haven't gone on sale yet so don't worry about the status in the online store.

There are VIP chairs around the tv table and then vip chairs on risers farther back in their front rows. Those are the VIP seats. All right on the map on the website. General seating risers with no backs blow for hours of seating. The rest of the event room there are just tables around the main room where you might be able to get a seat right at the table or else stand. There might be a row of bleachers up top for looking down on main room, can't remember. VIP seats don't get you anything outside of the TV arena other than GA admission to rest of matches.

Which events do you want to watch? The final three days are not the best unless those are the events you want to see. On Thursday you will see 1P dragging all day screwing up the schedule until the final match and then the usual run of the mill 9 Ball then and the rest of the days. The Bigfoot if you like that combined with all the Banks is great to spectate and what makes the event unique.

Are you going to be driving a car. If not playing, and have a car (and know how to drive in winter) then you got lots of options. Don't fall for the comments that you have to stay at the casino the whole time and there is nothing else close by, etc. It is an easy little one county road drive 9 miles back up to New Albany. There are plenty of restaurants there and right over the bridge in Louisville. Don't forget the Rustic Frog. Also perfectly fine hotel options in New Albany too.

Also there is the entirely separate Action Room where those seats are controlled by PoolActionTV.

You are going to get all the same opinions here that have been mentioned in another dozen threads on this site. Good luck.
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Thanks for your thoughts. I recognize there are plenty of threads, but searching for "derby city classic" or variations returns many, many threads discussing the events/results and not so much the logistics of attending. I found it difficult to wade through pages and pages on the threads list just for the occasional tidbit of information, and so I started my own thread with my own specific questions.

You are right that the seating chart is on the map on the website...but they don't allow purchases at the moment and don't differentiate between a $15 daily VIP pass and a $105 three-day VIP pass, which seems odd since I don't know what I'm getting with either. Nor do they specify whether I need to buy in advance or if I can just show up and buy. Hence, my questions regarding that.

I'd really like to see the bigfoot, banks, 9ball. So I think my plan is to assume they will follow the same schedule as last year and actually aim for the first weekend. Friday - Tuesday/Wednesday, so I can watch bigfoot and banks. It appears as if the hotel can be cancelled up to 24hrs in advance so I can make reservations and then figure out my tickets in the meantime. I'd really like an actual seat in the first few rows so I will either try to buy a 9day pass in advance (since the three-day pass is only for the second weekend) or, if I get some clarification, I'll just buy daily VIP passes to get a seat.

I will have a car. I'll search New Albany and Louisville for things to do if I want to get away for a morning or afternoon.
 
I agree that the "riser" seats are fine, but they have been a little more in demand in recent years. It's good to be about 10 to 15 minutes early for a match and to choose a seat that has not been reserved. Those have someone's name on the back of the chair.

Also note that daily ticket prices drop at about 4:00pm.

If you have transportation, there's a great little place maybe 20 minutes away that has craft beers and really good pizza. I always find a way to get there between events once or twice during the tourney. https://newalbanian.com/
 
Most of your questions have been answered so far but I figured I'd provide some additional info to give you a better understanding.

To understand the venue, let's compare it to huge high school gymnasium. So you have the main gym floor, with seating on each side. Above the seating areas you have an upper gym on each side. The upper gyms are separated by a hand railing where you can look down onto the main gym floor. This is pretty common in high schools so it should be easy to visualize.

All three gym floor areas will be filled with tables. On the main floor, they will designate one of the end tables as a TV Table and partition it off with a temporary wall. The TV Table will have extra seating surrounding it which is designated as VIP. There may be different levels of VIP access depending on how close you want to sit but I'm not totally sure about that. I think the VIP seating is more comfortable too. Regardless, you can still see the VIP table from most other areas in the venue without having a VIP ticket so VIP is not necessary in my opinion.

In order to enter the main gym floor and main seating areas you need to buy a daily general admission ticket (unless you have VIP access or youre are a player). As others have said, it's cheaper to buy a players pass than pay daily general admission (even if you forfeit all of your matches).

The upper gym areas are free to access. From the upper gym you can look down into the main gym and watch matches. During tournament hours, the upper gym will also have tournament matches being played, without much seating available. Before and after tournament hours you can play on these upper tables, but you have to put in quarters (every hour I think). Most will be full with action matches going on.

The main gym floor areas close down each night after the tournament. I'm pretty sure the upper gym areas close down as well a few hours after the main floor closes.

So that's the main tournament venue. Beyond that, there are a few hallways which circle around the upper levels of the tournament venue and connect to the rest of the hotel/casino. Along these hallways are several rooms (maybe 10) which are used for action. They are free to enter, open 24/7, and are constantly full of action. Once again, you need quarters to play by the hour. Some rooms are small with only one table and usually a streamer setup with a camera. Some rooms have 2-4 tables. The largest room has maybe 12 tables and is constantly full with spectators crammed in against the walls.

The hotel rooms are all connected to the venue but it's a good 15 minute walk to get back to your room so don't plan on going back and forth a lot.

The tournament starts with banks, then goes into one pocket, and finishes with 9-ball. Each event takes 3 days roughly and they overlap some. Most of the action matches seem to be one pocket from what I've seen. Not much rotation action except on the streaming tables with pro caliber players. All tables are 9 FT except for a few bar boxes in the action room.

I was a solid B player when I went and I was nowhere near confident enough to try to match up with random players in the action room. I wouldn't suggest it as a B or C player.

Hopefully this helps. I went once for a few days back in 2015 and unfortunately I haven't made it back since. I'm sure some things have changed since 2015. There is a good chance I am misremembering some things too so feel free to correct me if you're reading this and notice anything wrong.
 
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