A Little North of Absurd
>> Sunday, March 7, 2010 –
ASP world tour,
chris grant,
jettygirl,
melanie bartels,
surf industry
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I'm a big fan of pro surfing, always have been. I know it's not always cool to like the professional aspect of surfing but since I enjoy watching other paid athletes competing in their chosen fields, it's a natural fit for me to sit on the sand and view the best of the best pushing the limits in surf contests as well.
Enter the 2010 ASP Women's World Tour which kicked off a week or so ago at the Roxy Pro held at Snapper Rocks on the Gold Coast...
This isn't a contest review so let's just fast forward to the Finals where Hawaii's Melanie Bartels met up with World Champ Stephanie Gilmore. Despite the exciting lead-up to the Final, the waves were lackluster at best and Stephanie Gilmore started off where she left off last year, atop the winner's podium with a well-deserved victory.
Surfing aside, what caught my eye (and ear) most about the day was a live interview with Melanie Bartels as she left the water after the Semifinals. Following the joyous acknowledgement of making the Final and after graciously thanking her shaper and accessory sponsor, Mel looked into the camera and speaking directly to the "Surf Industry" (i.e. the surf apparel industry) asked something to the effect of, "Can someone sponsor me please?"
There was a bit of uncomfortable silence, some half-laughter and a quick conversation change by the commentators but the question was hung out there and now deserves an answer.
The ball is now in your court "Surf Industry." How will you answer Mel's inquiry? I ask as well ...how is one of the most talented females to ever ride a surfboard not sponsored by one of you? Is she not blonde enough, too Hawaiian for your taste or does she simply not kiss enough corporate behinds? If she donned a tiny bikini and extended out her bottom turns, would that help her case?
One of the world's most progressive female surfers is sponsorless and that is simply absurd.
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Nice. And a good question (followed by silence)...
Looking forward to more!!
Rebecca
I think you have blogging down already!! Profound.
I love it!
Thanks so much for saying what's needed to be said for a long time. I've known Mel since she was a little girl, both personally, & through association with the NSSA Hawaii while I was director. Mel is an incredible talent who's taking the steps to improve her focus & competitive edge. The surf industry NEEDS to step up & treat her fairly for her talent or be publicly held up in disgrace.