Scott O had some interesting things to say - especially in regards to the benefits of having a more 'real world' connection/soul/community going in the flesh and in person -- in addition to the Flat online/video-edit world.
No doubt his new comp format proposals and ideas regarding flat growth will provoke thoughtful and spirited discussion from the community.
I'll start.
I think the model of catering to the riders is backwards. First, cater to whatever spectators you can attract, from there you can build an audience, then command sponsorship revenue. After that -- then it's time to worry about pleasing the riders for whom you're hosting/putting on an event. Number one priority imho should be to make it interesting to people who will watch it. I know it hurts. But if you're talking seriously about any sort of long term growth and ending the constant struggles with raising sponsorship dough for a simple contest, regular events, circuits, or even -- gulp --- Flatland training facilities -- there must be a demand/audience. There is no other way.
NOW if we're just talking a badass jam every few years to ride -- then Scott O's format/approach is dead on.
So I guess it just becomes a matter of what the plan is -
building a great jam
or
rebuilding a sport.
Plus I like the backgrounds behind the dudes on the couch.
Thanks for doing FlatWebTV.
your pal,
Joe Kickass