For a quarter of a century, Richmond has played host to a significant Kentucky high school athletic event. The current COVID pandemic didn’t stop the balls from bouncing in Eastern Kentucky University’s McBrayer Arena.
Richmond and EKU first landed the All A Classic in 1991. Except for a seven-year hiatus in Frankfort, the college town has seen thousands of visitors come January. Richmond Tourism Director Lori Murphy-Tatum said the economic impact over the five days has been estimated at a million dollars. She said it highlights a town-gown relationship.
“A lot of times the university is doing their thing and the city is doing their thing and this is one of those things where we all work together. You know, we’ve got our police forces, all of the different staffs doing things. So, it’s something where we’re all on the same team,” said Murphy-Tatum.
Richmond Chamber of Commerce President Mendi Goble saID hotels and restaurants see some of the biggest gains in what’s typically a slower period after the holidays. The Chamber leader said it provides an opportunity for Eastern Kentucky University to highlight its offerings. Goble noted it can be a time of student recruitment.