A Message to Prospective Sponsors

What makes a good sponsorship?

Since 2004 I have partnered as a sponsored athlete with numerous companies in order to advance their marketing objectives. In this time I've had some excellent partnerships, many of which are still very strong today, and I've also watched disappointedly as others failed to materialize or fulfill their objectives. The most mutually beneficial partnerships have had two things in common:

1. The relationship was a natural fit. Most importantly, I could genuinely use and endorse the sponsor's product, and the sponsor was dedicated to producing the product for people like me. It's also been important that our respective stories -- my personal story, and the sponsor's brand story -- have neatly coincided, helping to reinforce, not muddle, our images. Finally, the sponsor has dedicated resources (e.g. time, money, website real estate, etc.) so it could actively integrate me into its marketing: I've been the centerpiece of ad campaigns, I've been sent on speaking tours, I've worked with dealers, etc. Without dedicating resources, the impact depends entirely on what I can do with my marketing platform, which frankly is limited compared to that of most commercial enterprises.

2. Before any contract was signed, we developed a detailed marketing plan, the first step in which was identifying measurable goals that the sponsor wished to gain from the relationship. Once those objectives and expectations were established, then we could determine the "means" as well as how I should be fairly rewarded. Without a clear purpose and action plan from the start, time is lost, fruitless marketing meanders take place, and uncertainty abounds; and at the end of the contract there's no way to measure success or failure.

What I need

In the context of my observations described above, I am seeking partners for my 2010 expedition. Specifically, I am looking for financial support and in-kind products and services, including but not limited to: apparel, equipment, food, travel, and communication technology. I don't feel like a more detailed list is necessary here -- if you are a prospective sponsor, you probably already know whether it's worthwhile to pursue a relationship or not.

What I can do

In return for support, I will grant permission to use my image & likeness and will embrace the opportunity to represent the sponsor when needed. I will also promote the sponsor through my marketing platform, which will or may include: and expedition website that features podcasts, photos, video clips, and blog posts; speaking engagements following the expedition; and media appearances.

Still interested?

Contact me via email or by phone. I look forward to speaking with you.