But... I only race duathlons.

Right now we are only focusing on Triathletes. However if we expand our target to include Duathlons we will post it :)

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Marcin Sochacki
CEO
Rocket Science Sports
http://www.rocketsciencesports.com

So basically, you are looking for free publicity and "special" clients that can get your stuff at a discount.

If I was consistently in the top 5 you would be PAYING ME!!! not giving me 50% off...

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You can't fix stupid ..

Hang on a second...

I've never heard of the company, but they come on here and offer a few age groupers stuff at cost, and a few fast guys a chance to get some gear for free to help out their racing. Do you think the snide attitude is warranted?

If nothing else, I've gone on the website and will check out their gear. Nice to see a company giving a boost to the AG racers.

It is a discount program; not a sponsorship.

That's what I was thinking. If I am consistently top 5 overall at IM or HIM I'm pretty sure I would be pro and could swing better deals than that. That said these are some pretty good offers if you are not pro.

Then I have to ask, how many "sponsorships" are there in the industry?

---

------------------
@brooksdoughtie
USAT-L2,Y&J; USAC-L2
http://www.aomultisport.com

Exactly.

What's your point though?

There are far more "sponsors" through heavily discounted merchandise than free swag.

Your arguing semantics

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@brooksdoughtie
USAT-L2,Y&J; USAC-L2
http://www.aomultisport.com

If we already race in your wetsuits before this post, do we get anything extra? I'm available to start tomorrow at about 7:00!

I have no problem with amateurs getting discounts; after all, this is their hobby. But companies should name this for what it is, a discount program. You are a good AGer, cool, we give you some freebies and a discount coupon.

Now, my big problem is about professional triathletes. They should be paid by the companies to use, promote, advertise their products. "Paying" them with discount coupons is a joke, it is ridiculous and offensive. Can you imagine this? "Hey, Cristiano Ronaldo, this is Nike. We would like to sponsor you; you promote our brand and then you can buy soccer shoes at a 50% discount. Pretty good deal, eh?"


--------
Maui_
Sponsored this week by Dominos Pizza (I received a buy-one-get-one free pizza coupon from them this week!!)
And by Bed, Bath and Beyond (Thanks for your 20% discount on kitchen utensils)

this is not semantic. Words have meaning. 50% off on stuff is not a sponsorship, it's a discount.

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Eric Reid AeroFit | Instagram Portfolio
Aerodynamic Retul Bike Fitting

“You are experiencing the criminal coverup of a foreign backed fascist hostile takeover of a mafia shakedown of an authoritarian religious slow motion coup. Persuade people to vote for Democracy.”

So if you get 1 pair of shoes for free valued at $150, and then 1 pair at half off, is that sponsorship? Or is that "only" discount?
ETA: Or my point is, why are we discussing the term "sponsorship". Does it matter if you label it sponsorship vs discount program? It's sorta like okkkkk, who cares.

---

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@brooksdoughtie
USAT-L2,Y&J; USAC-L2
http://www.aomultisport.com

that's a pretty good discount. what did the company require you to do in return for the privilege of giving them $$?

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Eric Reid AeroFit | Instagram Portfolio
Aerodynamic Retul Bike Fitting

“You are experiencing the criminal coverup of a foreign backed fascist hostile takeover of a mafia shakedown of an authoritarian religious slow motion coup. Persuade people to vote for Democracy.”

You cannot compare any triathlete to what Ronaldo can bring to the table in publicity. Besides the pro sponsorship above clearly has a cash component. I am uncertain where this anger is coming from.

That was a deal one of my elite's used to have. He would get 2 free pair of shoes and 3rd at EP cost, all he had to do was put logo/link on his website. Do one "review" on the shoe and just wear them.

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------------------
@brooksdoughtie
USAT-L2,Y&J; USAC-L2
http://www.aomultisport.com

Seriously MAN! Why don't you think before you speak?

I am not sure if everything is right up there and I hope you do not work in accounting but if you feel that giving someone $1,000 to $2,000 worth of products and $ for good performance is free advertising. Perhaps you just can't qualify and are jealous of the people who can LOL.

Good Luck in in your racing and finding more companies who are willing to support grassroots athletes the way we have been for the past 10 years...

Marcin

---

Marcin Sochacki
CEO
Rocket Science Sports
http://www.rocketsciencesports.com

At this time we are taking all the applicants if you would like to be considered please send your Race CV to vian@rocketsciencesports.com The financial rewards are there is just depends which group you are qualifying for. Some of them include premsuims and some of the do not.

Looking forward in getting your CV.

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Marcin Sochacki
CEO
Rocket Science Sports
http://www.rocketsciencesports.com

Thank you for recognizing this. Our company actually has been around for 10 years and we were the 1st company to make the original compartmentalize triathlon bag. Alot has changed since 2004 however we are still here and makign great products.

7 years ago I have moved to Shanghai and we have not been so focused in the US market however we are coming back to USA next year so look for us at the local races and check us out. I started racing in the 90s as a age grouper and I know how hard is to train and buy all the expensive gear. that is why we came up with this program to help talented age groupers and up and coming athletes :)

Marcin

---

Marcin Sochacki
CEO
Rocket Science Sports
http://www.rocketsciencesports.com

Free product is not a discount and premiusms as well. Only the 4th level is a discount and its a help for age groupers who are good since triathlon is an expensive sport and we want to the reward the talented age groupers...

Marcin

---

Marcin Sochacki
CEO
Rocket Science Sports
http://www.rocketsciencesports.com

very disappointing reaction from many age groupers in this thread. A company in good faith come here to offer a program.....read it, if you dont like it walk away. If you are a age group and qualify for a tiers in this program... it could be interesting and save you money.

And for a up and comer pro that doesn't have strong relationship establish with a company... this could be a first step into starting and growing a new relationship with a company.

good on rocketsciencesport to come here and offer this program....

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Jonathan Caron / Professional Coach / ironman champions / age group world champions
Jonnyo Coaching
Instargram

Well i'm shit and ill rock your gear, I wont place but you will get seen at events.

Now where is my swagger

---

http://RoadID.com/...te/4HC4V-TAFQ9XPJDTX

^^^THIS^^^^

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Not only that, but there seems to be an interesting trend lately where triathlon pros (not all, but a seemingly growing number) appear to think that they are 'owed' additional money and sponsorship (however you define that), just for being pro. They seem to have forgotten that the entire point of sponsorship is to grow the underlying business of the company doing the sponsoring*. If the pro isn't delivering a return of investment on that to the company (in terms of clear brand value/units shipped), then it's quite frankly not worth the companies money. Merely having a tiny logo on your uniform doesn't get companies much these days in the triathlon world.

To add to that, with funding relatively limited in the triathlon 'sponsorship' world, there is a simple reality that companies are finding in some cases more value in sponsoring an age grouper with wider reach, than a pro who doesn't deliver the brand message beyond just a 1" logo on a t-shirt on a podium. Again, triathlon pros have to realize they have to bring value to the table beyond that occasional visibility. You see some pros doing that here and elsewhere, but most don't.

*There are occasional feel-good sponsorships around the industry, but those don't really last long.

---

-
My tiny little slice of the internets: dcrainmaker.com

Well said. That and that expenses add up quick...this might just help someone move to the next level.

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http://RoadID.com/...te/4HC4V-TAFQ9XPJDTX

Is this a region only thing or open to international?

Have a few friends/athletes that could certainly qualify. I'll forward this over to them if so

This opportunity is offered world wide not only in the US.

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Marcin Sochacki
CEO
Rocket Science Sports
http://www.rocketsciencesports.com

I haven't used your product yet but have a few friends that have your wetsuits and love them. When it comes time to purchase a new suit, I will give your company a serious look at purchasing. Good on you for offering something to the AGers as well

"there seems to be an interesting trend lately where triathlon pros (not all, but a seemingly growing number) appear to think that they are 'owed' additional money and sponsorship (however you define that), just for being pro."

lately?

---

Dan Empfield
aka Slowman

Martin,

I think this is a great deal and you should be commended on trying to support athletes and grow the sport, while promoting your business. dcrainmaker gets it along with a few others.

I would be interested in seeing if there is a way of working together on this. We have an Ambassador program with age groupers and pros alike. In fact two of the up and comers Lionel Sanders and Cody Beals are sponsored by us and are MSC Ambassadors. (Lionel just won our spring in Bala Falls this morning). This type of arrangement can be a win/win and should be seen as a positive.

---

John Salt, Founder - MultiSport Canada
Canada's Largest Triathlon Series and Barrelman Niagara Falls
http://www.multisportcanada.com / http://www.niagarafallstriathlon.com
"Discipline Is What You Do When No One Is Watching You"

arguably us BOPers are more valuable to sponsors because we're on the course longer.


Looks like a good program, not sure what all the fuss is about. Marcin has been pretty transparent with what's offered, the rest is just up to what you want to call it.

So Ill throw 2c in here.

there was a great point made that "I'll race 10 races and where's my swag." Talk about marketing exposure! Someone took this comment and went a step further with pink to say BOP are on the course longer. Either way they make a gerat point-what is the purpose of your PROGRAM?

You mentioned helping grassroots athletes-is that the intent or is it marketing.

DCrainmaker and Slowman make great points as well so I'm torn. I agree that it hasn't been lately, just more obvious maybe. DC makes the point that the guys racing multiple races should be your representatives if its exposure and marketing your looking to achieve. From the qualifications it looks like you just want to give the impression your product gets you on the podium.

FTR I'm a MOPer with top 3 A/G capabilities depending on the race/location. I am "sponsored" by a local bike shop. I pay for my KIT, I get discounts at the shop. In previous years I was given free stuff to wear (shoes, helmet, glasses, kit) sponsorship has changed over the years, depending on those that sponsor the shop. I have obligations for the year and at the end of the year I am given an in store credit.

If I were to design my own program I would want a free kit at minimum-I'm promoting your business. Depending on level the freebies should increase. The best incentive would be race reimbursement, make it place dependent or quantity dependent, that way Id either try to place or race more-ie promoting more. As for discounts they should be equal across the board. Where I finish shouldn't determine the worth of a product. A BOPer rocking a KIT is on the same course as a FOPer. Does your product guarantee a better position at the finish line-or do you want it to just look like that? Which makes me question the intent of the program. I also didnt seen a response for what if someone ALREADY wears/uses the product. I guess they could sell it on ST.

Would I like to be a rocketscience sponsored athlete, sure I like your stuff. Did I apply no, it'll conflict with my current obligations to a LOCAL company.
Best of luck

This has turned into a pretty unbelievable thread. I'm not sure why a company offering this sort of program to both pro and amatuer athletes is forced to defend itself. Thanks for taking the initiative to do this, for those up and coming age groupers it's always helpful to get a few free or discounted items.

For the few complaining about this, of course a company is getting something out of this. Exposure. I've got no marketing or accounting experience at all and can see that. The idea is that it's a win-win for both sides.

Unfortunately for the MOP/BOP people aren't buying equipment because you wear it, sorry. They are because the guy on the podium is and some of the top end amatuers are better than anyone else about recognizing and supporting the companies that help them out. I know that's going to upset some, but it's pretty much the reason I won't be applying for this. While my OA results meet his criteria (at least 4), the only way I'm ever coming out of the water first is if the water is waste deep and it's a run (seriously happened once, great story!). It' makes no sense for a wetsuit company to invest money in someone who is playing catch up after using their equipment, doesn't say anything about how good their equipment is.

Kudos to Rocket Science Sports for taking starting this up.

Funny.

When I packed my aged Rocket Science transition bag for last weekend's Small Texan Olympic-ish distance (course was long, per the ever-reliable GPS), I wondered what ever happened to the company; not seen/heard much from Rocket Science in what seems like years. But, then, I've been out of racing the past few years.

That said, the bag still works, even if the zipper separating the wet pouch to the main bag is corroded shut. It gets my gear there & back again. And, in spite of being out of racing since 2011, I managed to place first in my 40�45 AG at a couple of local tris. I'll likely pass on the sponsorship (or whatever the folks here wish it to be called), since my season's done until 2015 rolls around. Triathlon is an expensive sport. Bravo to Rocket Science�still presumably based out of just-up-the-road Austin�for recognizing this and trying to do something about it for everyone on the course.

---

#cureMS

x2

Sponsorship, discount, does it matter for the fledging AGer? While in the end this is a individual sport, the next goal doesn't hurt. As a second year triathlete, I'm typically in the top 4 and a small sponsorship/(discount) couldn't hurt my motivation to continue to improve. I appreciate Rocket Science for providing this opportunity.

-mike

Please send us your CV.

---

Marcin Sochacki
CEO
Rocket Science Sports
http://www.rocketsciencesports.com

Please get in touch with us we can take this offline and review how we can work together. Please contact vivian@rocketsciencesports.com

Marcin

---

Marcin Sochacki
CEO
Rocket Science Sports
http://www.rocketsciencesports.com

I wonder how many on this forum know what CV means.

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Eric Reid AeroFit | Instagram Portfolio
Aerodynamic Retul Bike Fitting

“You are experiencing the criminal coverup of a foreign backed fascist hostile takeover of a mafia shakedown of an authoritarian religious slow motion coup. Persuade people to vote for Democracy.”

RESUME

Now you are scaring me...
Curriculum vitae
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Curriculum_vitae

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Marcin Sochacki
CEO
Rocket Science Sports
http://www.rocketsciencesports.com

;)

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Eric Reid AeroFit | Instagram Portfolio
Aerodynamic Retul Bike Fitting

“You are experiencing the criminal coverup of a foreign backed fascist hostile takeover of a mafia shakedown of an authoritarian religious slow motion coup. Persuade people to vote for Democracy.”

Agreed. This is a compelling offer for a rookie pro like me. Sponsors aren't exactly queuing up outside my door, brandishing fat endorsement checks!

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CodyBeals.com | Instagram | TikTok
ASICS | Ventum | Martin's | HED | VARLO | Shimano | 4iiii | Keystone Communications

In the spirit of things this week it is interesting to see that in order to get any premes or receive the highest level you are required to race IM and HIM races.

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JT Multisport | Facebook | Instagram | World Sport Coach

This. Martin (and rocketscience) have been on the boards for 8ish years. Whether it's a discount program or a sponsorship (i.e. free) program (And this has both except for the lowest level), they are still offering something of value. Whether or not you think it has value only speaks of your own personal valuation. Yeah, there are a lot of discount programs out there (Such as Rudy Project) that offer a discount to anyone. This you need to at least pass a screening, and if you continue (or have previously) performed well, then you get free stuff as well.

And with the reception that this is getting, I'm amazed that people like Martin, SuperDave and others continue to post.

John

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---

Top notch coaching: Francois and Accelerate3 | Follow on Twitter: LifetimeAthlete |

I'm all of the things that would make for a Shark (or Awesome in most amateur races) but social media is lost on me. And I move around too much to really have a following in the local races. So, I suppose I'm not looking for some free schwag (unless you really need someone in the Houston area). I've been lax on racing these past couple years but that should improve for next year when my new kid is old enough to be outside for extended periods and can walk about on his own.

So I guess the point of this post is: bump.

So you're trying to launch a company by getting the smallest percentage of the people racing to wear your shit (1% of the 100% racing)? Yeah, what a great CEO you are. If I were trying to launch a company, I'd be hitting up the larger number percentage which are the ones NOT placing top 3 (99%of 100%).

The 99% are slower and they are out there a lot longer, so your name is seen for a longer period of time by many more people. Your goal is to get the MOST publicity as possible right? Why choose 3 rabbits wearing your gear when you can have 97 turtles wearing it?

Take a page from Rudy Project who gave EVERYONE at Kona an aero helmet. All I see are Rudy Project helmets these days.

I have an additional comment for this thread. I recently trained for the CDA IM with a local athlete who is sponsored by Hammer Nutrition. By sponsored I mean that they receive kit and Hammer products at a reduced price. This is the first person I have known who is "sponsored". Because this person is a MOP'er and a relatively "normal" person, they train and interact with a much larger audience than say a pro or FOP'er. Thus, they are promoting the product to a much larger audience. If I were selling/promoting a product I would provide an additional level of sponsorship for the average triathlete but limit the number to a manageable group (say 300 people).

I guess it would be very similar to being part of a bike shop club or race team where you wear their kit and get discounts at that shop. A large majority of the triathletes in my community have joined one or the two local shop teams to get reduced kits, bike gear, and shop maintenance. Depending on fundraisers and club sponsors etc, the race entry fees are partially reimbursed.

Should probably read the whole thread

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I ran. I ran until my muscles burned and my veins pumped battery acid. Then I ran some more.

Uh, I did. Doesn't change my perception. Never market you rake to the smallest percentage. Always take the highest percentage.

And your rationale for this is Project Rudy, who gave helmets to all the Kona athletes? Just what "percent" do you think KQ athletes represent at your average local tri?

No, you probably didn't. Martin's company has been around quite a long time. He is well past the "launch" stage.

John

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Top notch coaching: Francois and Accelerate3 | Follow on Twitter: LifetimeAthlete |

10 year launch huh?


They are selling products to triathletes. I don't want to be mop or bop, I want to win. The idea of sponsoring athletes is that if they use it to win, I can use it and win.


Plus its pretty expensive to kit up 97% of the field. For my money, I'd rather advertise my product on the guys who get the most exposure.

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I ran. I ran until my muscles burned and my veins pumped battery acid. Then I ran some more.

I know a few store owners that refuse to sell Rudy Project equipment because their "sponsorship" program encourages them to bypass the store and claim the discount through the website. They have to purchase the items and then get undercut by the manufacturer.

John

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Top notch coaching: Francois and Accelerate3 | Follow on Twitter: LifetimeAthlete |

I often joke that at some point I'll be legally unable to contribute because of liability and/or the need for a marketing department to be the sole voice of consumer communication.

-SD

I am not trying to launch a company our company is been around for 10 years. This program is to recognize the top age groupers and some upcoming pros and reward them and at the same time create some positive publicity. Rudy Project has been around for almost 30 years and has yearly review much bigger than any triathlon specific company by 10X. Please do not compare the two... Totally different ball game.

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Marcin Sochacki
CEO
Rocket Science Sports
http://www.rocketsciencesports.com

BRILLIANT let's sport the person who can't swim to represent a wetsuit brand. I think this will propel our company to the next level LOL!!

You guys are making me laugh it's COMEDY CENTRAL!

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Marcin Sochacki
CEO
Rocket Science Sports
http://www.rocketsciencesports.com

GOOD ONE!

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Marcin Sochacki
CEO
Rocket Science Sports
http://www.rocketsciencesports.com

Hey Marcin,

I might not qualify for any level of sponsorship, but I wanted to say thanks for providing the opportunity.

I submitted my race resume/CV to Vivian and would love to represent your company if given the chance.

About 0.5%.... but the one with the most visibility... the person that won it. The one who gets a small news article in the local paper and that everyone notices at the race because they are "so fast". If they seem friendly, folks might even ask them questions about their equipment.

Just saying. Though I haven't yet KQ'd. Have only demonstrated KQ potential.

I'm still waiting for Trek to give me a 9 series and Zipp a rear disc... so word doesn't get out that the 7 series is just as fast and there's no need to spend an extra $5k on anything better.

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TrainingBible Coaching
http://www.trainingbible.com

I think it's great to see a company that is commited to the sport. So kudos on that.

And I think the "free gear" versus "sponsorship" argument is more semantics than anything; your selected athletes are in fact receiving something of value, be it material or monetary. Nothing wrong with that.

However, quite frankly, I do think it is a bit disingenuous to make your wetsuit offer only to accomplished athletes and get publicity from their performances, when in fact their past results or development as triathletes have nothing to do with wearing your gear.

From a business standpoint my unsolicited advice would be careful how you respond in public to criticism, or perceived criticism. It's always better to take the high road or respond in private rather than embroil yourself in a public debate and lower yourself to the level of the naysayers. That never reflects well on the person or the firm.

Mark

Yeah, because Nike/Adidas/Oakley/etc only sponsor athletes who developed while wearing their gear.

John

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Top notch coaching: Francois and Accelerate3 | Follow on Twitter: LifetimeAthlete |

Marcin, thank you for posting this opportunity on the board. I was in ATC recently and was wondering what y'all were up to. Are you based back in Austin again?

Looking forward to submitting my CV.

Thanks,

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https://twitter.com/mungub

Agreed. Marin, thanks for posting this. ;-). It seems that some don't appreciate attempts to take over this forum with triathlon related posts that have nothing to do with shoe/bike fit, drafting, BQ or KQ'ing on 4 hours of training/week, drafting, wattage needed to achieve 4 hour bike (only #therealStarky really knows the answer to that one), men in gorilla suits, or drafting.

Perhaps "out of the ordinary but deserving" threads like these as well as any thread started by #therealstarky can be moved to another part of this forum. Perhaps the Lavender room.

Good luck in your quest to improve your bottom line while giving back to triathletes that can help you achieve that.

Your point is well taken; don't disagree. It certainly happens in other sports all the time. Though, relative to your example, the odds are pretty good that an athlete has worn Nike or Adidas gear at somepoint before being sponsored just due to their dominance in the marketplace.

One of the risks the OP is taking is that his gear will allow the athletes to continue to perform at the high level he has recruited.
The downside risk is that the athlete will perform worse in his gear. I guess it gets down to how much swimming performance can actually be attributed to the wetsuit itself.

Mark

That happens. Look at Jordan's latest blog post, the pearl suit he's been using has been hampering his swim.

John

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Top notch coaching: Francois and Accelerate3 | Follow on Twitter: LifetimeAthlete |

Good on Marcin & Rocketsciencesports for this offer, I know if I still raced as much as I did several years ago I'd be submitting my CV.

Marcin, I'm going to assume that 41 minutes for an Olympic swim does not qualify as "good swim results"? :)

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- John
"Have courage, and be kind."

Don't ever leave us SuperDave!

Firstly I'd like to apologize for the overwhelming number of knuckleheads and haters on the ST forums. I am blown away with the entitled attitude rearing it's head here as DCR and Slowman alluded to. Furthermore Marcin, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for recognizing that we age groupers who also spend countless hours reaching for our personal bests and podium wins. I'm not on social media nor am I a strong swimmer but I have made the podium and I've often dreamed about opportunities like this. Please continue to stick to your approach and give us age groupers a reasonable means to achieve a status most would never imagine; being a sponsored athlete.

I'd like to reiterate .... Don't ever leave us SuperDave! And thanks again Martin and Rocket Science!

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"Train so you have no regrets @ the finish line"

I'm not a stud swimmer, but hey, I'll always try something else to speed up my swim! I went from a "brick with arms" to something better, so still improving.

I'm sending in my CV and deets, I am sure I qualify for the 4th, gotta work my swim more to move on up!

And above all, thanks to Marcin for the opportunity for all AGers, only a few are bold enough to offer it up to us "lowly" AGers!

Thanks!

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-----------------------------------------------------------
Try Not To Puke on the Finish Line!
http://trynot2puke.blogspot.com

I'm going to buy some of your stuff if for no other reason I like the way you've handled the douc,,,, I mean some of the negative responses.

Thanks for your contribution to the sport in your effort to grow your brand.

Best to you.

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************************
#WeAreTheForge #BlackGunsMatter

"Look, will you guys at leats accept that you are a bunch of dumb asses and just trust me on this one? Please?" BarryP 7/30/2012

I've never understood this point. They make wetsuits. They want people to know they're fast. So clearly the logical thing to do is put them on the slowest people because they're out there longer.


Marcin thanks for this opportunity!

Yeah, because we ALL know it's the wetsuit that does all the work. People aren't stupid. Do you honestly think people are going to go

"WOW, that guy is a speed freak in the water. I have to get one of those wetsuits."

Pleases! Spare me the what wins on Sunday sells on Monday.

And you can say what you want about the Rudy Project expirament. It worked. Hottest selling helmet on the market. Look at the Helmet count from Kona last year. 654 Rudy helmets toe'd the line. #1 helmet last year by far.

Why would you want to sponsor the slow guy if you can sponsor the fast guy though? Don't give me the BS that "they're out there longer". They're in the water, no one can see them. Also, as it's been said, you're comparing apples and oranges with Rudy Project. A simple google search can get you "sponsored" pricing on a Rudy helmet. Them giving away helmets at Kona argues against you. KQ are the .1%. I thought you were defending the 99.9%?

Somebody sounds pissy they don't fit into a tier?

This makes no sense. One company gives away their helmet to the fastest people and it becomes a top seller. But it won't work for a wetsuit company? I gotta think Roka has done well this year with all the high profile sponsorships they have signed.

No, Rudy gave a helmet to EVERYONE who raced Kona in 2012, not just the fast people. They received the helmet when they checked in.

I'm not pissy at all. I work for a Trek Bicycle Store. Get great deals on my bike and parts. We also have a Triathlon shop attatched to it and a running store next to it. All my needs are met with great discounted prices.

This is an expensive hobby. Just like to see companies help out the ones who aren't as fast. That's all.

This has been a topic I've often made fun of on twitter. It seems like there are a lot of age groupers that are very interested in being sponsored because it makes them look cool to their family and friends on social media. I joke around that most of the "sponsored" "elite" age-groupers are getting nothing more than 15% off of their honey stinger waffles. To me, it often seems more about self-promotion than anything else.

With that said, this seems like a much more legitimate opportunity than the others, particularly at the higher levels, and I hope he finds some people that can provide a ROI.

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Website
Contact me for Huub and Falco Discounts

Yes EVERYONE who signed up to get one. It won the Kona count. I would say most people see Kona as the fastest people. Guess I am wrong on that.

Hang in there Marcin! It's a tough crowd here some times. :)

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--
Paul Lantinga
Sable WaterOptics from See Worthy
paul@sablewateroptics.com

Still in Shanghai. Be back to Austin in couple of weeks can't wait to swim at Barton Spring and go for a ride on my Ducati :)

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Marcin Sochacki
CEO
Rocket Science Sports
http://www.rocketsciencesports.com

Slow people do not qualify for KONA unless part of lottery.... This is a championship race.

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Marcin Sochacki
CEO
Rocket Science Sports
http://www.rocketsciencesports.com

That make sense. Trek just hands out bikes to MOP and BOP athletes?

Now now now... Lets not be to harsh...

Reading what was posted, there was nothing that says you have to USE their wetsuits... Just you can sign up, get on board and still rock your Helix or Maverick get out of water 1st and Ka-Ching

While I appreciate the effort and program... think it is pretty LIGHT - you can join up with many Tri Teams and get similar discounts, and across the board, not just wetsuits

Good Point's Mark... But I am so Politically incorrect if you knew me... but overall I am frank with everyone and maybe I do upset some people from time to time. But everyone who works for me seems to like me or at least pretend they do JK :) Take care...

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Marcin Sochacki
CEO
Rocket Science Sports
http://www.rocketsciencesports.com

Marcin, is 100% right here. For those of you who think all pros have great sponsors you are seriously wrong. I coach 3 up and coming pros and almost 95% of the money for their season comes out of their own pocket. Most companies are not putting money or product in the hands of the lower level pros or high end age groupers. I can tell you what Nike Swim or Speedo offers to National qualifiers in swimming is a lot less then what this offer is. I love what the company is doing and wish more would do the same. Great work and hope it works for you and we will see more companies offering similar deals.

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"Strive for perfection and achieve excellence"
http://www.trihardercoaching.com
info@trihardercoaching.com
Receive 20% off at trisports.com
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We would like to congratulate all the athletes who made our 2015 sponsorship selection.


LEVEL 1
DangQi China
(Still 9 Spots Open)

LEVEL 2
Guilaume Lecallier France
Katrine Amtkjaer Denmark
Aaron Cook Australia
Tomasz Gagola Poland
Ben Sayles Canada
Billy Pappas USA
Cameron Paul New Zealand
Cedric Boily Canada
Cody Beals Canada
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Valerie Barthelemy USA
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Tom Rodgers Australia
Matilda Raynolds Australia
(2 Spots Open)

LEVEL 3
Adam Silverman USA
Alan Finder USA
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Egoitz Zalakain Spain
Victoriano Raso Spain
(36 Spots Open)

LEVEL 4
Alden Velez USA
Brian Haugi USA
Bruce and Karen Antonowicz USA
Chris Loy USA
Dana Reid USA
Hannah Driskell USA
Jennifer Souter Canada
John Horn USA
Justin Webb Australia
Korey Kreider USA
Mandy USA
Matt Barcus USA
Robert Rankin USA
Roger Canham UK
Simpson Canada
Stephen Donnelly Irish
(34 Spots Open)

We will contact each of you shortly with more details. Good luck in your training and again, congratulations!
Thanks

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Marcin Sochacki
CEO
Rocket Science Sports
http://www.rocketsciencesports.com

Thank you very much! I look forward to working together in the future.
Adam

looks like one his level 3 guys is makin' it rain in Choo Choo town today...

Hopefully you don't work in PR or marketing b/c insulting publicly other athletes is no way to gain market share.

I'm never going to do a race that involves a wetsuit because i'm a cold water weenie and live close enough to the equator that i don't have to, but solely due to your demeanor in this thread i headed to your site and found a THERMOREGULAOR suit! ho boy! that looks too cool for words. and while i took 2nd female overall earlier this year, i know that at 54 that was a huge anomaly and while it did inflate my head for a while i know i'm just hanging on the the tailcoats of the FOP pack. and swimming is not my forte. :) so good luck to you, Martin, and i'm off to wander your website some more...

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http://harvestmoon6.blogspot.com
https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/katasmit

Yeah it's a pretty sad situation in the Tri world. I finished towards the top of a lot of Tris in the last few years and the best opportunities I've found were similar, "We'll let you buy our stuff for cost, just know that it's a huge favor we're doing you! Oh you are going to race Xterras, can you race 4 more halves instead?" When I rode BMX I got free bikes, payed to travel to go get video'd falling down stairs, and I was far from top of the game. The problem is tri is extremely niche. Non-triathletes don't buy tri gear. Kids buy BMX bikes and shirts when they see people doing it on TV. Very few people see Kona on TV, get inspired by the sob stories, and go buy a tri bike and a wetsuit. The community is pretty much closed, a lot of pros and dentists are already geared out and aren't looking for the next best thing, a huge portion of the field is just there to finish so doesn't care much about gear, in the end there just aren't many people to market to, just the people new to tri that want to begin to get serious. How many wetsuits/shoes/bikes can a top AGer sell to that demo? Unless it gets turned into a lifestyle thing like skateboarding where people with no interest in the sport still wear the gear, like kids and 30 year olds wear skate shoes and shirts just because it is cool, there isn't going to be great sponsorship opportunities for new pros and top AGers.

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http://www.onelesshiker.com
http://www.twitch.tv/1horsepower

I joke around that most of the "sponsored" "elite" age-groupers are getting nothing more than 15% off of their honey stinger waffles. To me, it often seems more about self-promotion than anything else.

That 15% get's extended, in all sorts of directions by so many retailers (To clubs, to groups, to people who enter certain races etc . .), that when looked at en-mass, no one in entire regions is making any money. Why? That 15% is the margin where the shops actually make some money, and all of them are just giving that away!

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Steve Fleck @stevefleck | Blog

Yeah it's a pretty sad situation in the Tri world. I finished towards the top of a lot of Tris in the last few years and the best opportunities I've found were similar, "We'll let you buy our stuff for cost, just know that it's a huge favor we're doing you! Oh you are going to race Xterras, can you race 4 more halves instead?"

1. The performance model, that because someone wins or does well, and the used X-equipment, and that will influence others, is for the most part dead.

2. The margins on most things are so narrow, that really few people are making much money.

3. Xterra's are great races, and not too take anything away from them, but despite the fact that many have been saying for 15 years that Xterra is the next-big-thing, they've never really taken off. FWIW - Ironman is the current big thing, and while it feeds into this whole triathlon world revolving around Ironman situation, most brands structure their performance bonuses around dong well in Ironman races, with a significant and major bonus in doing really well at Ironman Hawaii. Winning an Xterra race is a great achievement, but from a marketing perspective is of little value.

For most Pros off the A-List and ALL age-groupers, the currency and metric of choice for sponsorship or "support" really of any kind is your social media profile and foot-print. That's what will impress WAY more than winning some regional triathlon race.

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Steve Fleck @stevefleck | Blog

Thanks so much! Just go the first email today with info...looking forward to more info and working with you all. Thanks for the opportunity.

Dana

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________________________________________________
Don't Just Live, Thrive!
Thrive Kinematics Physical Therapy - http://www.facebook.com/...8178667572974?ref=hl

Thanks for coming on ST. Sounds like a good deal from AG to Pro! Once I get my mojo back I will submit ;0)

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__________________________________________________
Official Polar Ambassador
http://www.google.com/...P7RiWyEVwpunlsc2JtQQ

Are your suits warm enough for 50F?

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-- Aaron Davidson

I did Escape from Alcateaz few times. So I think so :) but I would put something on your head to keep it warm.

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Marcin Sochacki
CEO
Rocket Science Sports
http://www.rocketsciencesports.com

Just wondering if anyone has received their sponsored product yet?

I'll double check my watch, but it sounds like it's awkward truth time...

I received mine months ago. Very quick to arrive and super impressed by the gear I have tried thus far.

If you haven't considered trying a product from this company before, I for one would recommend it.

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Blog: http://www.coopstriblog.wordpress.com
Latest blog: Setting Goals. With or Without Gin.
Date: 10/31/2017

You're the CEO? I think you should try to be more professional in public and avoid hurling insults at age group triathletes on internet forums.

edit: Just realized this thread is from last year...

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