Most of you know me though OBX Beach Life and the Hatteras reports,
but I have always had this question about "sponsorship." Over the
years, I have received free gear, and paid for it. Sometimes paid
higher prices, sometimes lower. But I was wondering what really
defines "sponsorship?" I guess that getting all your gear for free
constitutes that you "work" for your gear by actively competing,
promoting the equipment, and getting your name out there. Do you
"own" it or do you "trade it in" for new stuff when needed? Also
there are levels, with sponsorship driven by a local shop or directly
by the manufacturer. Is sponsorship also a "paid" status where not
only do you get free gear, but also a paycheck from a sponsor? I
assume this is true for competitive pros who make a living
windsurfing, but for the majority of expert/pro skill level sailors
out there that do not make a living at it, what do you get?
I wanted to put this out there as a discussion topic to see what you
all think of sponsorship and what it entails.
Bill
www.obxbeachlife.com
www.obxloopfest.com
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