Michael Mulone is the director of event & tourism partnerships at Bassmaster in Palm Harbor, Fla.
Describe your event.
As fishing’s most prominent event, GEICO Bassmaster Classic Presented by GoPro is regarded as an annual celebration for 100,000-plus fans and 300-plus working media.
Attendance is free, the 200,000-plus-square foot consumer expo is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, and the arena weigh-in show feels like a rock concert.
Why Greenville?
This is an untraditional show. In addition to a large convention center, 14,000-plus seat arena, good lift and hosting for 100,000 fans, we required a healthy bass fishery within an hour’s drive. Greenville has it all—including their partnership with Anderson, S.C., 45 minutes away.
How they worked together, with Anderson building a new boat ramp for the show, cemented the deal.
Which venues did you use?
TD Convention Center, Bons Secours Wellness Arena; Hyatt Regency Greenville; Westin Poinsett; Hilton; and Courtyard by Marriott Downtown.
How was the support from VisitGreenvilleSC and partners?
I knew what I was getting into—a high level of service without being uptight. Honestly, they have it figured out, while asking repeatedly, “How do we make it better?” The food scene is as authentic as the people, plus enormous community pride with smart people knowing there is a whole world out there that needs to get to Greenville.
What did your attendees say about the experience?
It was an incredibly fun and exciting week for everyone. One co-worker, a show veteran since the late 1970s, called it “the most seamless Classic ever.”
Would you return to Greenville?
For work and for fun, as soon as I can.