Legends of Vegas: Inside the Exclusive Super Bowl Bookmakers' Dinner

LAS VEGAS - Every year, as the anticipation for the Super Bowl reaches its peak, a select group of Las Vegas' most legendary bookmakers gather for an exclusive dinner. This isn't just any meal—it's a reunion of the minds that have shaped the sports betting industry for decades, the 'Old Guys Rule' Super Bowl Dinner.

The Gathering of Legends

The invite-only event is held at the luxurious Stirling Club, nestled in the high-rise Turnberry Place off the Strip. The guest list is a who's who of Vegas bookmaking royalty, including Michael "Roxy" Roxborough, the preeminent oddsmaker and dinner host, and Jimmy Vaccaro, the elder statesman of sports betting. The room is filled with over 500 years of combined experience in Vegas bookmaking.

Storied Careers and Unforgettable Nights

These bookmakers, many of whom began as ticket writers and nighttime managers, have climbed the ranks to run some of the most famous sportsbooks in the world. They share stories that span from the 1970s, when Las Vegas was a different kind of playground, to the present day, where online sportsbooks dominate the landscape.

From Roxy to Vaccaro

Roxy, articulate and sharply dressed in a tailored white suit, sits at the head of the table, while Vaccaro, in his signature white sweatshirt and snow-white pompadour, holds court at the other end. The two icons of the industry, along with their contemporaries, reminisce about their days at places like Caesars Palace and the Mirage.

Dinner and Debate

As the night unfolds, the menu is as classic as the conversation—steak and lamb chops, paired with red wine. The discussion is lively, ranging from the unsolved mysteries of Vegas to the notorious run-ins with the mob. The big debate of the evening? How to handle changes to starting pitchers after a baseball bet has been placed.

Nostalgia and Insight

While the Super Bowl is the reason for the gathering, the conversation often veers into nostalgic territories, with stories of past games and legendary bets. The attendees, many of whom are still active in the industry, share their hard-earned insights, reminding everyone why they are the kings of American sports betting.

The Future of Bookmaking

As the dinner winds down with desserts like cannolis and tiramisu, the conversation turns to the future of bookmaking in the era of online betting giants like FanDuel and DraftKings. Yet, the respect for these legends is undiminished, as they continue to influence the industry they helped to create.