Don't be offended, step up and make a difference. How do we make this happen?
HINT: Stop asking why people don't do these events, and start asking why people go to Texel. I can promise you that it has nothing to do with any of the excuses above.
Mike
Okay Mike, why do people attend Texel...?
That is the question to ask.
That is not.
The key is to find out what drives people to events, and give them what they want. Knowing what they don't want helps to make sure they return, but people will go out of their way (and spend lots of money) if the event is something they really want to do.
So, again, why do people love Texel, and what do we need to do to get that turnout here?
Mike
I rig and launch next to a local yacht club fairly frequently. Of course you get the leaner, yachties, and dingy folk coming by to ask questions. I flat out tell them its not for them, and there's no way they could ever possibly transition to a modern beach cat. I figure the patting their back, givin' a quick tug job, and telling em' how great our boats are isn't working so its time to go the opposite direction and see if that pulls them in. Kind of a Project Mayhem approach. <img src="<>/wink.gif" alt="wink" title="wink" height="15" width="15" />
These are not the droids you're looking for.
sailing has an image problem in america. first off, you know it's cool, i know it's cool, but many folks think it's for dorks...goobers...nerds...kinda like being on the math team. secondly, sailing comes off as an elitist, one percenter activity. when i tell people i sail, some look at me like i'm a pompas butt, rich kid, know it all and they really don't care. now sport bikes, harleys, cameros, personal watercraft, nascar, college football, etc...that's where america spends its money for passtimes. the hope is that the americas cup will spark interest here and i hope is does. you have to use your brain to sail so this could only be good for the ole' u.s.a.! mayby a really cool video game would help to interest some young people, especialy if there are hookers you can kill...
Try telling people that you not only sail, but also race; then throw in that you travel the circuit, and have an RV for that purpose...
Mike