The Event Doctor answers questions about the sports-event industry each month from the readers of SportsTravel. The Event Doctor is Jack Kelly, a sports-industry veteran who has served in a variety of event-related roles, including positions as CEO of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, CEO of the Space City (Houston) Sports Commission, president of the 1990 and 1994 Goodwill Games, and president of two United States Olympic Festivals.
Questions for The Event Doctor can be e-mailed to Jack Kelly at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Ask The Event Doctor Archives
January 2012: How to work with local colleges; ideas for evaluating your bids
December 2011: Working with limited venue space; how to keep your staff motivated
October/November 2011: How to secure medical services; when to demand cash from sponsors
August 2011: How to be involved in venue development; tips on cultivating top volunteers
July 2011: When to offer travel services; how to insure your event
May/June 2011: The benefits of an annual award dinner; working with other events
April 2011: The value of in-kind sponsorships; marketing in a post-newspaper age
March 2011: Using celebrities to draw attention to your event and developing new leaders
February 2011: Finding local experts in sports; why you should invest in technology
January 2011: The value of industry shows; tips on securing licensing revenue
December 2010: Publishing a facilities guide; how to set bid fees
October/November 2010: Increasing group sales; defending against ambush marketing
September 2010: Planning international events; the dangers of discounting
August 2010: Expanding volunteer programs; achieving a consistent look
July 2010: When host cities can't keep up; budget worries
May/June 2010: Legal language in host city agreements; emphasizing your destinations best assets
April 2010: Budgeting for increased security; how to share sponsorship opportunities
March 2010: Including local celebrities; how to negotiate with your destination
February 2010: How to maximize ticket revenue; ways to award events in multiple years
January 2010: Seeking financial assistance from host cities; keeping your key sponsors on board
