jkhayc wrote:
"Teams" that are basically "ambassador/affiliate" programs are definitely a waste of time though. In my opinion. Like, why would I pay to be "sponsored?" That's one of the biggest money pits I think I've ever heard of in triathlon, and that's saying something. EMJ is definitely NOT that, for sure.
What are they? I find this thread pretty interesting as I haven't ever been involved with a club ( I'm using this with a European interpretation of 'club' where I guess its more like a team) in any sport. It got me thinking about how they are structured, do clubs compete with each other, is their a coach involved or is it a pool of knowledge from the team, what's involved with gear, kits, traveling to competition, practices, etc.
Of recent I have seen a couple of ambassador type applications for running shoes and then the Pearl Izumi thing that was posted on here. I don't know you, but apparently you're pretty good (or at least I am getting the impression you are) as well as some others posting here who maybe have competed against you or are in similar clubs so I am assuming your clubs are more elite. My impression of a club (which is ragtag at best) is what I have experienced running in Raleigh. Our running clubs really meet at various places and are predominately all the same people that get together, run, then drink a couple beers. I am with you on the camaraderie aspect. That is one thing I miss when I used to run track in high school or play team sports for that matter. That and the competitiveness going against other teams.
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