New Digs, Still Classic

The Horseshoe's balcony gave fans a bird's-eye view of the player-packed arena. (Photo by Sam Gray)

The 2009 Classic appeared to be beneficial for both Sullivan and the Horseshoe, but this year's event was only a one-year contract. Sullivan expects to begin negotiations with the Horseshoe brass on what he hopes to be a 3- to 5-year deal.

The Horseshoe Casino proved capable of handling the 24-hour action. And by forging a relationship with Harrah's Entertainment, the Horseshoe's parent company, Sullivan hopes to land opportunities with the corporation's other 53 properties.

"Now I'm in with the casino group, and I think we're a perfect marriage for casinos - especially when they need bodies in these hard times," he said.

No matter where it lands in 2010, the Derby City Classic is not a specific location or time or place. It's the anything-and-everything event, a gathering of people who celebrate the game's many facets.

"I'm pumped up about next year, and I haven't been this excited in awhile," Sullivan said. "I'm starting to smile again because I see real potential for the future."

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