I tried searching and couldn’t find exactly what I was looking for - I’m sure it’s there somewhere. I’m sorry if this has been covered.
Anyways, I’m a 24 year old newb that has been fortunate enough to find some success in triathlon so far. The past season was my first season (I had done 1 or 2 races in the previous 5 years). I won some races and managed to qualify for the short corse age group world championships.
I realize I have a long way to go before I have big (or little) sponsorships being thrown at me. Knowing that, I intend to put together my racing resume, etc. and go to local shops/relevant companies and see if they would be interested in sponsoring me.
For those of you that have sponsorships on this level, what type of sponsorship is it? Discount on labor, gear, entry fees paid (doubtful, I know)? I don’t want to go in asking for too much, but don’t want to sell myself short either.
I would like to think I would be a great ambassador for a local shop. I understand the marketing side of things and also want to give back to the tri community that has welcomed me with open arms over the last year.
Any thoughts, personal experiences, etc. would be much appreciated. Take it easy! Thanks in advance.
I have been sponsored by two different local shops. When I went to the shop that I was hoping to get sponsorship from I had my race results and more importantly a list of ways that I could give the shop exposure. In return i get my bike maintenance done free, a free kit with shops logos, discounted gear, and a tiny bit of money to go towards race entry fees. If you have specific questions you can pm me.
Being fast is all and well, but just being friendly and cool to the LBS goes a long way. We helped out several local triathletes, but none have every asked for it. They do well at local races, wear our jersey, and are friendly. We notice that and then in turn just say " Hey, thanks for wearing the colors, here’s a discount".
So be nice, wear the jersey, have a beer with the owner, and you have a good chance in getting help.
Expect nothing and you won’t be disappointed. The margins in a bike shop are razor thin and they really can’t give you that much. Plus in all reality, what kind of return on investment are you actually possibly providing them?
As ATC said, wear the jersey, enjoy that you can hang out there here and there and that you are making some friends there. Anything else is bonus.