Now that the two year contract is over, there has to be a better choice than Alltech.  Some improvement was made about the scoreboards but they were still hard to read (even with readers,lol).  Seats and floor in actual seating area were still filthy --- not knocking staff there they can only keep a building  so clean that was made for horses. I saw numerous little kids playing in the dirt that was on all the seats.  Many people had headaches and problems from the dust.   Yes I know wrestling is a sweaty sport but it is an indoor sport.

    As for taking KY wrestling  to greater heights, wrestling in a horse arena sure isn't the way. Our kids deserve to participate in an atmosphere that feels welcoming. and sounds and is  classier than a Horse Park. Using a knife to cut up the balls in the pre-finals celebration, that inevietably went over the Great Wall, was absurd. They could have let the air out and given them to little kids or  Goodwill.  Bottled water $3.00,  come on that is ridiculous.

     Also, not having brackets for sale or even posted was  very hard for our elderly fans.   Most grandparents do not have smartphones so they can get trackwrestling.   Many relatives were there that wanted to buy a hardcopy so  they could fill the brackets out themselves to help pass the time as they waited for their wrestler and to know  who they were watching wrestle.

I couldn't agree more. The men's restroom only had two stalls and most of the sinks didn't work and the one that did was cold water. Also $14.50 for 2 pcs. of pizza 1 bottled water & 1 Power Aid is robbery. I say move it to Freedom Hall or Rupp or WKU.

Rupp? Too big and too expensive.

If we can't afford to have medals bigger than a dime, there is no way we could afford Rupp. WKU is not a central location.

Frankfort

Memorial Coliseum - Parking was a free-for-all for both youth and High School. High School lighting is awful, 3 rows of lights made it so dim you couldn't see, couldn't video record. They should have an elevated platform for the finals, with all lights out except over the mat.  

I have only heard one complaint that has anything to do with Alltech erana. The dust.. Dust and dirt? Really? I dont know what area you were sitting Mam, but I think someone had done a bit of vandelism if your seats were filthy and you saw kids playing playing in dirt. The area where our school sat was clean both days. Our little ones were also playing on the floor and were no more dirty than if they were playing on the floor anywhere else.  Also as far as the scorboards are concerned, I sat in the section by mat 6 all the way in the corner and I was able to see the score of the matches on mats 3 and 4 in the other end of the arena.  No matter where the tournament is held the concession prices are going to be rediculous just like at a ball game or a concert. The awards being a joke and brackets not being posted had nothing to do with the arena. These are all KHSAA issues. 

As far as having the opinion of holding the event at a place "classier than a Horespark", all I can say is that it seems we have a different view of what is and is not classy! Everone that has came from another state as a guest of our family the last two years to watch have all commeneted how great the location is or how great the venue and arena is for our State Tournament. Comments like "wow, this is really cool" or "wow, this is really big time here"  This is Kentucky. We are known to the rest of the country as the Bluegrass State which is defined by the thourghbread industry. I for one am proud of that. Our dual teams singlets last year had a horse on it. Did this project the image of our team being unclassy?  I dont understand the comment about headaches or people having problems from the dust. Our school had about 75 to 80 people there for two days and not one complaint about a headache or allergies or anything involving dust.

Everyone from our school likes the Alltech Arena and we all hope the tournament stays there. I have a few complaints from the tournament this year such as the awards, brackets not being posted or sold but these are all KHSAA issues. The only thing I would like to see improved on that is directly an issue with the arena is that would be really cool if the finals matches could be wrestled under a spot light like they were at Frankfort.

I heard kids say they were suffering from allergies from all the animal dander in the arena. The place smelled like horses and cows.

Really? Wow. OK not sure what to say to that. I can only assume that we must have grown up differently. I grew up climing trees and playing in dirt and creeks as the things kids normally do here in Kentucky. Maybe It really is a problem for some. I just cant understand why none of our 75-80 people in our section struggled with allergies or headaches. This will be my last reply in regards to this issue but to say the place smelled like horses and cows is just flat out an exaggeration! Each to their own. We will just have to agree to disagree.

It must have had something to do with the ventilation.  Our section was completely covered with dirt - the seats and the floor.  We also had several parents and kids who were having a hard time with allergies and asthma.   Nice venue, but not suited for wrestling.  Don't expect it to change, however.

Centrally located is a lowsy reason not to have it in louisville. I do believe that either the Cross Country or the track and field state meet is at UL. I know it would be too much to go to yum but come on now. Louisville or well the state in general has alot better places to hold the state tournament.

The pre state finals is a huge thing in KY. I know alot of guys who the week of state when not talking about comp. in the bracket could only think of 2 other things that were 1. first LARGE meal after the second day began and 2. what wacky things they would do before the state finals.
WE NEED people who have wrestling experience running this ONLY. Just like you wouldnt want an ex wrestler running the bowling, chess, or basketball state championships! Popping the balls was just wrong.

Refdad, I grew up in the projects in the Ville but did those same things you did LOL!

I don't have animal allergies, but I assure you, I heard people complaining about it. And it did smell like manure. Ask rideemout, he posted the same thing.

The track and field state finals is usually at UK, but they are remodeling the track so it has been at U of L the last 2 years. And that U of L track facility is NICE!!!

Move It back to Frankfort !!!!! The atmosphere for the finals with the lights going down and the closeness to the mats made the atmosphere increadable. I understand at Alltech the spacing is much better and could potentially create a lot less chaos , BUT the atmoshere at the finals and semi-finals was just not the same. The civic center is the perfect size for 5,000 screaming wrestling fans!  Alltech seemed clean and I didnt notice manure but if I did I wouldnt have cared ,  what kind of person dosnt love the smell of manure in the morning!

Now with it only being 2 days, you can't go back to Frankfort. With only having space for 4 mats, it would have to go back to 3 days. Personally I would hate that. It's much better being 2 days.

Lexington does not deserve our $$$. Take a look at the coverage in the Herald.

Alltech just can't compete with Frankfort's atmosphere. Frankfort has a really neat downtown area. Great hometown places to eat. I really miss it being held there. Don't get me wrong, I know there were issues, but all in all, Frankfort was great. P.S., If we had 16 man brackets instead of the dreadful 32, we could easily do our State Tournament in 2 days and on 4 mats. I know this is a whole other can of worms, but I had to bring it up. Also, wrestling the semi finals on 4 mats was terrible. This is the most exciting round, and we just breezed through it. We definitely need wrestling people putting together and running our tournament.

Really? Wow. OK not sure what to say to that. I can only assume that we must have grown up differently. I grew up climing trees and playing in dirt and creeks as the things kids normally do here in Kentucky. Maybe It really is a problem for some. I just cant understand why none of our 75-80 people in our section struggled with allergies or headaches. This will be my last reply in regards to this issue but to say the place smelled like horses and cows is just flat out an exaggeration! Each to their own. We will just have to agree to disagree.

we have 3 boys sick after leaving there. warm up area was cold. i agree that the place is nice, but not for wrestling,

Cross country is also at the Horse Park. State track eventually is moving to UK, so the KHSAA will have boys basketball, tennis, wrestling, XC and track in one city.

I would Love to see it back in Frankfort too! I loved that venue! On another note Broadbent Arena here in Louisville(behind Freedom Hall) seats 6,600 and is open for rental Feb. next year the weekend of the 21st-23rd., and Louisville Gardens could be a possibility. It holds 6,000+. Both of those arenas have that Gladiator feel like the Arena in Frankfort has! 

The KY Fair grounds charges about $8 to park!   And that's this years cost; with the "new" theme park coming, they'll probably jack up that cost even more.  Plus  it's a little walk to the arena once there.   The Fair grounds usually has several things going on at the same time (flea markets, other shows, etc).

.

I still hate the 32 man bracket too but it has been going well on 6 mats, except you can't watch ALL the good matches. You could possibly do a 24 man bracket, making the 3rd place match at regions actually mean something. Winner goes to state. Give a first round bye to all region champions. I wonder if you could squeeze a 24 man bracket out in 2 days on 4 mats.

We have pretty much tried everything else.

Broadbent Arena is open as of right now for Feb. 21-23 2014, and thousands of hotel rooms one block away!

I just wish they could mix it up the brackets. Just have different bout numbers . I really don't know if any other prime locations. I would think that the 3 colleges that run wrestling in Kentucky would be interested but I don't know what type of facilities they have. NKU has a great arena and they of course don't offer wrestling there but it's not centrally located. I was thinking maybe Memorial colliseum ?

By bout numbers it just seems like they could start with mats 1-2 106's 3-4 113's 5-6, 120's  and go forth that way. These are just some pondering thoughts.

Personally I would love to see it in Louisville, because Lexington either has or is getting everything else.  The baseball state championship is also played there.  But if you do it in Louisville, parking is the issue.  Some places don't have enough, and others charge too much. 

Memorial has women's basketball and gymnastics in February.  May be tough to find an open weekend.

1. I thought we had one more year on contract at Horse Park.

2. The boys weren't allowed to sit or lay on anything in hallways. One kid had a yoga mat and was told to remove it! That carpeted area should be designated as a camping are for wrestlers. Give the boys a place to lay down comfortably for goodness sake....it's a long weekend for them. And the whole reason we are there in the first place!

3. Lighting was discussed last year and was agreed upon changes would be made. Same thing was done for finals...crap lighting.

4. The knifing of the balls was over the top....celebration is more forced at horse park.

5. Louisville Gardens sounds like good option to remove parking costs that may be associated with broadbent.

6. 32 vs 24 vs 16 man bracket: majority seems to be in favor of 32, so venue to accommodate 2 day tourney limits choices....but other options NEED to be discussed further.

7. With KHSAA headquartered in Lexington, are they trying to keep all events there?

8. Wrestling people need to be as involved as much as possible with KHSAA in any future decisions.

Khsaa offices in Lexington should not be an excuse. Downtoan Louisville is 1hr 20 mins from Lexington. I know because I had to go to UL to meet someone.

The KY Fair grounds charges about $8 to park!   And that's this years cost; with the "new" theme park coming, they'll probably jack up that cost even more.  Plus  it's a little walk to the arena once there.   The Fair grounds usually has several things going on at the same time (flea markets, other shows, etc).

.

Um, they have parking all the way around the arena -- so that won't be an issue.

How about a rotation? Get the State Universities to host. One year at Northern Kentucky, the next at Morehead State, the next at Murray State, then Western Kentucky and so on. This would allow the sport to be showcased around the state, & save on travel for those teams the years it's close to your school. Why should the centrally located schools never have to travel and spend the money those schools who are always traveling have to spend.  It could be a 6 year rotation with Lexington & Louisville included. It would allow those universities to showcase themselves as well. Each of the Universities has a arena that is big enough to hold 6 mats. No more dirt and allergies, nor cold arena floors.

Does Richmond/EKU have a venue big enough to host? It seems like that would be as centrally located as Alltech. Not real sure about the hotel situation though.

How about a rotation? Get the State Universities to host. One year at Northern Kentucky, the next at Morehead State, the next at Murray State, then Western Kentucky and so on. This would allow the sport to be showcased around the state, & save on travel for those teams the years it's close to your school. Why should the centrally located schools never have to travel and spend the money those schools who are always traveling have to spend.  It could be a 6 year rotation with Lexington & Louisville included. It would allow those universities to showcase themselves as well. Each of the Universities has a arena that is big enough to hold 6 mats. No more dirt and allergies, nor cold arena floors.

Eku could.hold it.

Eku could.hold it.

What about hotels? I'm assuming it wouldn't be a problem.

That was my first experience and I was not impressed. The fact they cant keep dirt off of the floor and mats is absurd. Also I have heard at the youth level there were allergy issues, and the finals were not near as neat as they were in Frankfort. I would say take it back to Frankfort! Parking was fine, seating was fine, and the arena was darker then Lexington.

Also can we please step the medals up?! Half dollars are larger then the medals! If the middle school can afford the medals provided the KHSAA sure better be able too. 

    I agree that they should allow the kids a place to spread out.  I heard more than one competitor complain about the cold warm-up areaand that it was cold on the mats especially when the action stopped for an injury time.  Not being redundant but the people running the tournament should get their ideas from wrestling folks.  And yes Ky is known for horses, but I had many kids say it did stink and the floor was dirty.                    Think about this - I have never seen a shirt say " The best thing about a Horse Arena is when it is Covered in Wrestling Mats"   LOL.

     The lack of brackets and/or programs made this seem diminished in importance.  Yep grandma wants to see where lil Johnny placed his sophomore year and where the neighbor kid placed 5 years before.  Just like the debate about  books on  a computer or phone some people still like to have the tangible feel of a paper booklet or packet. 

     Does the KHSAA get the proceeds from the concessions and shirt sales?  If so then providing medals or plaques, brackets, a shirt with weight class and placement on back. I think there is one school in Evansville Indiana that gives each class champion a special colored shirt  with weight class and champion on the back and a decent size trophy  -  and this is just for their Duals Tournament.  The rotation idea might work, they do it for NCAA .

Last post by me -  just hope that  they do what is right for the kids.

From what I heard last year the kids were hooking up under the bedding that was brought into the arena last year and that's why they weren't allowed to bring any kind of bedding in this year.

Those of you who keep harping on the tournament being centrally located. Why? Why should the centrally located teams never have to travel and stay in a hotel? Shouldn't the teams from the west, north, or east be able to go home each night of the tournament? It could be an 8 year rotation, with the tournament being hosted once in each region.

problem with any venue in Louisvile is that weekend you deal with the largest convention that comes to town , The Farm Machine Show. It fill most hotel rooms and Mike Frankone, Broadbent is taken, I served on the advisory committee for the Louisville Sports comission for one year. and its sad we cant have this event back in Louisville. Your right, need to move away from the horse park but facilities are limited in this state.

I do wonder how much asthma and allergies played in the outcome of many matches.

I saw kids using asthma inhalers (including 2 on our team.)

Maybe there is a nice place in Cincinnati...lol, jk

I agree with a number of the points that have already been made, so no need to rehash.  The biggest issues that I had were the lighting for the finals (won't rehash, but very difficult to see), and the lateness of the finals.  For the second year in a row, half of the arena left around or after the 160 pound weight class, but it wasn't because people weren't interested in the upper weights.  Teams and buses have travel time to get home Saturday night, and we simply can't have our kids out past midnight.  We must get the finals started around 6 pm so that people can stay for the whole event.  Maybe running 8 mats would move things along if we stay at Alltech and stay at a 2 day tournament.  There have to be some improvements, perhaps even an additional set of steps at the far side of the arena so coaches don't have to spend their whole day walking and going up and down the lengthy stairwell.  Just my thoughts.

Running all six mats for conso placing would have been nice. Wrestle two weights on six mats. It makes sense to me at least

Alltech gave me a major headache & i could not stop sneezing. Too many allergy problems for an abundance of the people. I personally think that it should be moved back to Frankfort. I mean heck for finals you cant get a decent video of any match cuz its so far away from the seats. Alltech just doesnt have the intense atmosphere that the Civic Center has.

How about a rotation? Get the State Universities to host. One year at Northern Kentucky, the next at Morehead State, the next at Murray State, then Western Kentucky and so on. This would allow the sport to be showcased around the state, & save on travel for those teams the years it's close to your school. Why should the centrally located schools never have to travel and spend the money those schools who are always traveling have to spend.  It could be a 6 year rotation with Lexington & Louisville included. It would allow those universities to showcase themselves as well. Each of the Universities has a arena that is big enough to hold 6 mats. No more dirt and allergies, nor cold arena floors.

Naplesme, i think you nailed it.  I really think this would be the best course of action for ALL!

problem with any venue in Louisvile is that weekend you deal with the largest convention that comes to town , The Farm Machine Show. It fill most hotel rooms and Mike Frankone, Broadbent is taken, I served on the advisory committee for the Louisville Sports comission for one year. and its sad we cant have this event back in Louisville. Your right, need to move away from the horse park but facilities are limited in this state.

 

I do wonder how much asthma and allergies played in the outcome of many matches.

I call KFEC yesterday to inquire about Braodbent Arena and they said Broadbent Area is available Feb, 21-23, 2014!

So let me understand this, the arena is why the atmosphere is bad?  

So let me understand this, the arena is why the atmosphere is bad?  

The arena does play a part. Atmosphere is more about energy (of the fans) and imagination of the producers of the event. I watched the last two yrs finals via internet. The place looks pretty blah. Why? Is is the lighting? Bland mat? Poor camera work? I don't know, never been to Alltech. At the risk of being perceived as an Ohio snob I am posting links to a few pics

https://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=ohsaa+wrestling+photos&biw=1600&bih=775&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.&wrapid=tlif136129876579010&um=1&ie=UTF-8&tbm=isch&source=og&sa=N&tab=wi&ei=SsUjUa_TCOTC0QHa-YH4AQ#imgrc=zNQtCvo5kpGIdM%3A%3BFdhnVZlK0kQ4gM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.columbussports.org%252Fwp-content%252Fuploads%252F2013%252F01%252FOHSAA-Wrestling.BLOG_.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.columbussports.org%252Fblog%252F2013%252F01%252Fnew-team-event-highlights-ohsaa-wrestling-slate%252F%3B650%3B180

https://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=ohsaa+wrestling+photos&biw=1600&bih=775&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.&wrapid=tlif136129887510410&um=1&ie=UTF-8&tbm=isch&source=og&sa=N&tab=wi&ei=t8UjUZOJHKaT0QH_8YCIDA#imgrc=KkhMQX_AxSbd7M%3A%3Ba0mDRPACSyhSJM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fhssn-media.advance.net%252Fohiohssports.com%252Fnews%252F6a070677621c834282ff3f0d35874f47%252Fmatnote.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fhighschoolsports.cleveland.com%252Fnews%252Farticle%252F8326272425264911552%252Fohsaa-wrestling-state-notebook-for-divisions-i-ii-and-iii%252F%3B1024%3B698

1st pic shows the three mats ready for finals. Three divisions, each with its own mat. Second pic is better view of mat. Imagine KHSAA with outline of state of Ky. Hope links work.

I think the arena is great.

Pros:

- Centrally located

- Large Facility

- Plently of places to eat and stay

- Can easily see all matches

Cons:

- The big screen is way too bright and very hard to see.

- As a spectator the dirt floor looks like it could create a lot of problems for the wrestlers. I'm sure a lot of dirt gets on the mats.

What i would like to see differently:

- Sheet of Vinyl to cover the whole floor. (dirt will be out of sight and out of mind.)

- Dim the big screen

- 8 mats to speed the process up. (don't know how this effects the 45 min. rule)

- Finals on Raised stage

Here's a plus to having it at one of the smaller arenas in Louisville. For example if it's held at Broadbent arena possibly while other events are going on at the KFEC it could draw in curious spectators which is more gate money and more recognition to Ky HS wrestliing! The same applies to Louisville Gardens Downtown. The West Main Street District and 4th Street Live has turned into a huge tourism attractions which Louisville Gardens is just 2-3 blocks away from these tourism Hot Spots! We have to start thinking BIG if we want the sport to grow in Kentucky! Indiana just had their HS State last weekend in The Bankers Life Fieldhouse(The Old Conseco Fielhouse)! It holds 18,000+ for basketball games! And Let me tell you their HS State was pretty crowed. It's all about exposure! Their is no exposure at the Horse Park for KY HS Wrestling! Just imagine if Ky HS State Wrestling Championships were being held at The Gardens in Downtown Louisville and some out of town family from central KY, or S.W. Ky were visiting Louisville or here for a convention and were walking  by the Gardens hearing all the cheering from inside and out of curiousity went in and became hooked on wrestling. Especially if that family has some young boys that were intrigued with what they saw! From that point that's one great way on how to get exposure for our wrestling to continue to grow! 

Good points Mike. It's always been my belief that you hold it in Louisville. Population wise, more people live closer to Louisville, thus more exposure. I'm not too familiar with The Gardens though.

The Louisville Gardens holds a little over 6000 people and in the past was used for events like circuses, basketball, wrestling, concerts and other such events. Broadbent would be nice but I cant remember the KFEC allowing parking passes for such events and parking there ranges from six to ten dollars, dont think ppl would want to incur the extra cost.

The Gardens would be the most logical place. but the biggest problem would be lodging. Parking around the Gardens might be a little stiff on Friday during the business day. JCPS was going to buy the Gardens from the city at one point until Cornish wanted the building. There hasnt been an athletic event held there in 2-3 years. JCPS then wasted money on a "super gym" lol at Valley HS but it only holds 3500. Bellermine Knights hall could be an option but that depends on thier BB schedule and they have limited concessions. Like I said , the Farm Machinery show is the biggest problem because they take up so much hotel space and bring in the big tourism bucks. I do wish they would renovate the convention center for sports, it would be perfect with hotels in walking distance like the civic center.

I have a 4 yr old daughter who had an asthma attack Friday evening after we left the event, and had to have breathing treatments throughout the day on Saturday. The area WAS filthy!! Her white tights were ruined, and that was just from being in the seating. The area was to small for her to play on the floor, and I did not let her run around the arena.  I have traveled to Frankfort and Lexington for the past 7 years for the  State Wrestling Tournament and State Cross Country Meet, and I do NOT think the Horse Park is appropriate for Wrestling. As a mother, and a Team Mom, I was upset that regular folks aren't allowed on the floor to take photos during a match, or for the Medal Ceremony. In Frankfort, this was allowed. Also, what in Haiti was the restriction that you could only take photos, or record matches, from your seat, and were not allowed to use a tripod? That was the most ridiculous thing that I have ever heard.

I agree that a rotation to each of the Regions would be the fairest thing for all involved. Why should one Region benefit more over the others? 

I live in the Louisville Area, and for one would not mind paying $8.00 to park daily, it sure beats paying $300 for a 2 night stay at a hotel. I just think that KHSAA needs to look at all aspects before renewing their contract with Alltech, and take into consideration that the Athletes especially, may have sensitivities to their surrounding and could (not necessarily WILL) affect the outcome of their matches due to those sensitivities.

I think that it should be put up for a vote of all involved as to where it should be held. I would definitely cast my vote for an 8 year rotation.

So let me understand this, the arena is why the atmosphere is bad?  

I think the excitement in Frankfort was do to the fact people were closer together and it was smaller venue which made it louder.  There is just not enough people to fill up the horsepark.  To me, that is the only downside to the horsepark.  From a comfort and convenience standpoint, I think the horsepark is an improvement.  More restrooms, concessions and more room.  Some have mentioned adding mats.  I had a hard enough time trying to keep track of all the matches going on.  I do like the tarp/plastic idea to minimize dust.  I think this would greatly reduce the problems people are having with allergies.  Turning the lights down for the finals simply took away from the matches.  Couldn't see very well.  I'm certain they can work on getting spotlights mounted for the finals.  As a matter of fact.  Even if we had to hire a lighting crew and add a little to the admission to cover the cost, it would be worth it to me.  Seems like that would be a fairly easy fix.  Definately some things that can be improved upon, but I think it was way over due to moved from Frankfort.  Those who want it in Louisville are probably from there.  If it's going to be moved again, I think it should stay in Lexington...much more centrally located.

The 2014 KHSAA State Wrestling Tournament will be held at the Alltech Arena.

The 2014 KHSAA State Wrestling Tournament will be held at the Alltech Arena.

That stinks! 

That stinks! 

I think it's the best place.  JCB...what would be your ideal place?  If I'm not mistaken, you're from eastern KY.  Is it the drive?

I think it's the best place.  JCB...what would be your ideal place?  If I'm not mistaken, you're from eastern KY.  Is it the drive?

I can answer this one, lol. 

If it's going to be moved again, I think it should stay in Lexington...much more centrally located.

I'm not for sure how you define "centrally located", but here is a brief look in terms of population.  The state of Kentucky has 4,339,367 people according to the 2010 census. Out of those 4.3 million people, 1,266,454 live in the Louisville Metropolitan Statistical Area. In the Louisville Metropolitan Statistical Area 269,096 people actually live in Indiana so if those people are removed then 997,358 people are KY residents in the Louisville Metropolitan Statistical Area. That comes out to 23.0% of the population who live in the LouisvilleMSA alone.

Since you advocate for Lexington in your post I will use the Lexington-Fayette-Frankfort-Richmond, KY Combined Statistical Area (a very large region geographically) for population numbers. In that CSA there are 685,419 people. That comes out to 15.8% of the population.

We could further consider the top 10 cities in the state of Kentucky population wise that aren't already included and see which city they are geographically closer to.

1. Louisville - Included in the Louisville MSA

2. Lexington - Included in the Lexington CSA

3. Bowling Green - Closer to Louisville

4. Owensboro - Closer to Louisville

5. Covington -Closer to Lexington

6. Richmond - Included in the Lexington CSA

7. Hopkinsville - Closer to Louisville

8. Henderson - Closer to Louisville

9. Florence - Closer to Lexington

10. Frankfort - Included in the Lexington CSA

As you see. Of the six cities not already included four of them are closer to Louisville by more than 50 miles. The two that are closer to Lexington are only so by a mere 15 miles. 

This is by no means a definitive study---but I think it's pretty clear that your original statement is false. When speaking in terms of population, Louisville is more centrally located than the Lexington.

For the record, I prefer Alltech to Frankfort. Much prefer a two-day tournament as opposed to three.

I'm not for sure how you define "centrally located", but here is a brief look in terms of population.  The state of Kentucky has 4,339,367 people according to the 2010 census. Out of those 4.3 million people, 1,266,454 live in the Louisville Metropolitan Statistical Area. In the Louisville Metropolitan Statistical Area 269,096 people actually live in Indiana so if those people are removed then 997,358 people are KY residents in the Louisville Metropolitan Statistical Area. That comes out to 23.0% of the population who live in the LouisvilleMSA alone.

Since you advocate for Lexington in your post I will use the Lexington-Fayette-Frankfort-Richmond, KY Combined Statistical Area (a very large region geographically) for population numbers. In that CSA there are 685,419 people. That comes out to 15.8% of the population.

We could further consider the top 10 cities in the state of Kentucky population wise that aren't already included and see which city they are geographically closer to.

1. Louisville - Included in the Louisville MSA

2. Lexington - Included in the Lexington CSA

3. Bowling Green - Closer to Louisville

4. Owensboro - Closer to Louisville

5. Covington -Closer to Lexington

6. Richmond - Included in the Lexington CSA

7. Hopkinsville - Closer to Louisville

8. Henderson - Closer to Louisville

9. Florence - Closer to Lexington

10. Frankfort - Included in the Lexington CSA

As you see. Of the six cities not already included four of them are closer to Louisville by more than 50 miles. The two that are closer to Lexington are only so by a mere 15 miles. 

This is by no means a definitive study---but I think it's pretty clear that your original statement is false. When speaking in terms of population, Louisville is more centrally located than the Lexington.

Nice info. Move it to Louisville!

It will never go back to Frankfort as KDE will not allow it to miss 2 days of school anymore.  

Coach McCoy, has a multi year contract been signed with Alltech? If so, how long? Is it possible to have a committee to look at other venues?

I can find out about the contract. But I do know it will be back next year. I talked to the KHSAA yesterday.

Silly me. I forgot to do my population study before i made the comment lol! I could give 2 sh...where it's held in terms of distance. I drive my kid to practice twice week further than louisville or lexington. i just know for some the distance is an issue for them. I was speaking in general terms. Not where most people live but rather Lexington being a large city more in the center if the state.

I'm not for sure how you define "centrally located", but here is a brief look in terms of population.  The state of Kentucky has 4,339,367 people according to the 2010 census. Out of those 4.3 million people, 1,266,454 live in the Louisville Metropolitan Statistical Area. In the Louisville Metropolitan Statistical Area 269,096 people actually live in Indiana so if those people are removed then 997,358 people are KY residents in the Louisville Metropolitan Statistical Area. That comes out to 23.0% of the population who live in the LouisvilleMSA alone.

Since you advocate for Lexington in your post I will use the Lexington-Fayette-Frankfort-Richmond, KY Combined Statistical Area (a very large region geographically) for population numbers. In that CSA there are 685,419 people. That comes out to 15.8% of the population.

We could further consider the top 10 cities in the state of Kentucky population wise that aren't already included and see which city they are geographically closer to.

1. Louisville - Included in the Louisville MSA

2. Lexington - Included in the Lexington CSA

3. Bowling Green - Closer to Louisville

4. Owensboro - Closer to Louisville

5. Covington -Closer to Lexington

6. Richmond - Included in the Lexington CSA

7. Hopkinsville - Closer to Louisville

8. Henderson - Closer to Louisville

9. Florence - Closer to Lexington

10. Frankfort - Included in the Lexington CSA

As you see. Of the six cities not already included four of them are closer to Louisville by more than 50 miles. The two that are closer to Lexington are only so by a mere 15 miles. 

This is by no means a definitive study---but I think it's pretty clear that your original statement is false. When speaking in terms of population, Louisville is more centrally located than the Lexington.

Louisville still has 1.2 million in it's combined metro area population minus the counties from Indiana. Over 1.4 with the Indiana counties. Not trying to be too technical, but i'm agreeing with you. Louisville is more centrally located, and still only 30-40 min from Frankfort. 

 The area was to small for her to play on the floor, and I did not let her run around the arena.... . Also, what in Haiti was the restriction that you could only take photos, or record matches, from your seat, and were not allowed to use a tripod?

You are to be commended for not letting your daughter run around the arena.  I was run over several times by youngsters during the weekend when I didn't dodge quick enough.  The reason the tripods were not allowed, I was informed, was that a girl crashed into one during Friday's matches and they were afraid of more incidents ( I read that as possible lawsuits).  We were allowed to use ours at our seat as long as the legs were not unfolded from the center and it was immediately retracted when finished.

Louisville still has 1.2 million in it's combined metro area population minus the counties from Indiana. Over 1.4 with the Indiana counties. Not trying to be too technical, but i'm agreeing with you. Louisville is more centrally located, and still only 30-40 min from Frankfort. 

Definitely could be true.  Just using the most recent stats I could find quickly on the internet based on census information.

Silly me. I forgot to do my population study before i made the comment lol! I could give 2 sh...where it's held in terms of distance. I drive my kid to practice twice week further than louisville or lexington. i just know for some the distance is an issue for them. I was speaking in general terms. Not where most people live but rather Lexington being a large city more in the center if the state.

But if you are talking about being centrally located, wouldn't you want to be centrally located to where most people live?  I can't find it right now but at one time I ran the numbers on driving times for every school listed on KHSAA under wrestling for NKU's arena, Alltech Arena, and somewhere in Louisville.  If I remember correctly the drive times for Louisville were shorter.  I'm going to try to find that spreadsheet soon.

Ok I looked up the population center of Kentucky and it is in Willisburg in Washington county.

Which is 60 miles from Louisville and 45 miles from Lexington.

Do with this information as you wish.

Ok I looked up the population center of Kentucky and it is in Willisburg in Washington county.

Which is 60 miles from Louisville and 45 miles from Lexington.

Do with this information as you wish.

Interesting.

I fish at Willisburg lake all the time!! Great for fishing, horrible for wrestling!! Lol!

Look up the zip codes of the participating schools too. Most schools participating at the KHSAA State Wrestling Tournament are from NKy and Louisville. 75% of the participants are from there.

So no matter what people say the KHSAA just does what it wants.   How  does  someone become such a "God"? Exactly how long are the basketball state tounaments? 

GOO, where do you go to find the population center of a state? More curious than anything.

I just googled it.  Then looked at a couple of sites.

Im going to state this one last time. I think Louisville would be great for the state tournament and you can run numbers that can calculate driving. #1 reason the tournament is no longer in Louisville and it moved from here is the Farm Machinery Show, during the same weekend, we had over 300,000 people visit Louisville plus vendors. Finding hotel rooms will be a nightmare>It was hard back in the Atherton days but try now. You miight as well try to have the state tourny on Derby Weekend.

The basketball tournament is a 4 day event. Wednesday-Saturday.

Bottom line is we outgrew The Dungeon. The KHSAA has to take bids on hosts and the Alltech Arena won. I am new to Louisville (fairly so) so I do not know all of the places that could host. I can tell you this, when they look at places for the tournament, they do look for a place that is centrally located and can hold the tournament with its logistics such as number of mats, seats, lodging, etc.

The answer to that as far as having it in Louisville is to not have it on the same weekend as the Farm & Machinery Show. I agree, it would be a nightmare to find hotel rooms that weekend! I think having it downtown would be ideal. A lot to do for the families who are from out of town during down time. Dozens of places to eat. And like I've been stressing, A LOT More EXPOSURE For KENTUCKY WRESTLING!!!!! 

The basketball tournament is a 4 day event. Wednesday-Saturday.

 

Bottom line is we outgrew The Dungeon. The KHSAA has to take bids on hosts and the Alltech Arena won. I am new to Louisville (fairly so) so I do not know all of the places that could host. I can tell you this, when they look at places for the tournament, they do look for a place that is centrally located and can hold the tournament with its logistics such as number of mats, seats, lodging, etc.

I liked it but completely agree.  The tournament needs to be 2 days.

It is too bad that Bowling Green as an area doesn't have wrestling, because Bowling Green would be a pretty good geographical site for the state tournament, servicing both eastern and western Ky with the parkways.  Living in Louisville, I honestly like traveling out of town with our team, because it makes state a little more special and out of the ordinary.

You guys can argue about dust, dirt and the central location of the state. I think it would be nice if we could see the finals matches how hard is it to turn on the lights. Something has got to be done about the lighting.

I'm not sure I get what the big deal was about the lighting.

Even an old coot like me was able to see the matches.  don't get me wrong I sat very close for most of them.  But I also watched some from the hallway level and was able to see just fine.

The lighting never crossed my mind the entire time.

Goo...I think you're in the minority.  I didn't have anything to say negative about the tournament, other than that.  I heard from people several times during the matches that it was hard to see.

The lighting is absolutely horrible if you are tryinging to take any pictures.  The KHSAA photographer with the strobe lighting in the ceiling is the only one getting any decent pictures and they still aren't as good as they could be.  I've shot pictures in a lot of arenas/gyms etc. and the lighting set-up for the finals is handsdown the worst I've ever shot in. 

I don't think it was you couldn't see, it was mainly there was too much light all around and not enough focused on the mat. Going from Frankfort with lights only on the mat to Alltech where the lights are dimmed is kind of a step down. The arena itself though is nice. Where we sat the stands were clean, concessions were readily available along with restrooms.