andrewnova wrote:
Robert wrote:
You don't think the pros bring value to WTC and/ triathlon? Having pros race says: "This sport is the real deal; it's very hard; it's something you might be able to do. We will show you what the best humans can do." Triathlon has democratic appeal, traditional roots in three sports, and an over-all healthy lifestyle appeal. That's why Carfrae and chocolate milk are so great together. (I drink soy, but, never mind....)
I started in triathlon because it was the sort of off-beat thing in the early '80's I would do, and not because of the pros. But now, it is very interesting to watch the pros, see what they do and how they do it, and to compare performances (purely as a entertainment, and not because I think I can get close to their performances). It's a lot like bike racing without the drugs, IMHO. Those pros get millions.... Why shouldn't Jordan Rapp be making millions?
-Robert
Again, I fail to see where the pros bring value to an organization. Is what they do and are able to accomplish difficult and amazing, absolutely. However watching in amazement at their achievements, admiring their lifestyle and using their performances as a benchmark does not in it's current state generate monetary value. You have failed to provide any examples of pros causing people to spend money because of them. Jordan Rapp should be making millions when he can show to an organization/company that he generates even more millions for them.
I still don't understand why the pros haven't come together for THEIR greater good and potentially work with Challenge to build something together and market themselves heavily. All I continue to hear is WTC should pay pros more because they are doing something difficult. Nobody is going to give you anything, in triathlon or life-you have to work for it and create value.
What kind of bike do you ride? Did you test lots of them before buying? What helmet do you use? What about your tri kit? It seems to me that a lot of the things triathletes buy and use are influenced by what they see professionals using. When did sleeved tri tops become popular? After Marino wore one in Kona a couple years ago. I bet if you counted how many people wore them that year and compare it to how many you'll see this year, it's a very different number. I remember the message boards being abuzz about what he was wearing and where can people get one.
Whether you admit it or not, our consumerism is absolutely impacted by the products professionals use. And seeing professionals on the course is pretty cool if you ask me. I remember seeing Rinny at IMFL last year and, even though she completely sandbagged it to validate, having a World Champion there brings an allure to a race. And judging by the amount of people lined up to get autographs and pictures with her and TO the day before, I'd say those people got some value out of it too. I'll never kick a soccer ball with Wayne Rooney or Messi, but I can share a road and a lake with Kienle and Crowie. That's a pretty unique aspect to the sport.
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Last edited by:
Sbradley11: Sep 26, 14 9:19