It goes without saying doesn't it...no man is an island. And I would have got absolutely nowhere without all the persons who have supported me in various ways. Maybe it sounds funny to a lot of people when an athlete posts a long list of thank yous, to coaches, sponsors, family. But where would be without them?
I understand the need to make fun of this too. I myself am amused when friends post thank yous to the local fast-food supplier. But do understand. Every time I get a taste of the holy grail that is sponsorship, I am working. I have signed a contract, and this contract is a responsibility. I am obliged to bring attention to the brand, to play a role in the marketing and promotion. In certain cases I am also obliged to use their products and to give feedback on them.
Therefore, while I appreciate any sponsor I get and do my best for them, it must be kept in mind that I would only accept a sponsor that aligns with my principles and whose brand is of value. This is important both for my own reputation - and for the reputation of those brands and companies that do sponsor me. Only in this way can I truly promote them, with confidence that they provide a solid service and product. It can therefore be understood that BMIT Ltd and Mochika-Outdoor Life posses these qualities and I am proud to represent them.
Of course, for every athlete, the biggest sponsor is always their own family. In my case, the value of the time donated by my husband, parents and siblings in child care is of infinite value. At a young age my parents supported me financially - buying my shoes, my first ever racing bike, my first ever swimming lessons. For this I thank them heartily. And the same goes for my husband, Philip. It wasn't easy taking the decision to stop working and focus on a PhD and full time triathlon training. His support was crucial to this. I doubt I would have got anywhere without him.
I can go on and on about my friends too. Too many to mention really - and I'm sure I'll forget someone. But I've been helped with time, transport, marketing myself, coaching, bike fitting, and simple support and belief in me - which counts for a lot.
Maybe I should stop before it gets sentimental. But I could never make it all about me me me. Because it isn't and it shouldn't be. Therefore I will stop with a huge THANK YOU to all of you. xxxxxx
I understand the need to make fun of this too. I myself am amused when friends post thank yous to the local fast-food supplier. But do understand. Every time I get a taste of the holy grail that is sponsorship, I am working. I have signed a contract, and this contract is a responsibility. I am obliged to bring attention to the brand, to play a role in the marketing and promotion. In certain cases I am also obliged to use their products and to give feedback on them.
Therefore, while I appreciate any sponsor I get and do my best for them, it must be kept in mind that I would only accept a sponsor that aligns with my principles and whose brand is of value. This is important both for my own reputation - and for the reputation of those brands and companies that do sponsor me. Only in this way can I truly promote them, with confidence that they provide a solid service and product. It can therefore be understood that BMIT Ltd and Mochika-Outdoor Life posses these qualities and I am proud to represent them.
Of course, for every athlete, the biggest sponsor is always their own family. In my case, the value of the time donated by my husband, parents and siblings in child care is of infinite value. At a young age my parents supported me financially - buying my shoes, my first ever racing bike, my first ever swimming lessons. For this I thank them heartily. And the same goes for my husband, Philip. It wasn't easy taking the decision to stop working and focus on a PhD and full time triathlon training. His support was crucial to this. I doubt I would have got anywhere without him.
I can go on and on about my friends too. Too many to mention really - and I'm sure I'll forget someone. But I've been helped with time, transport, marketing myself, coaching, bike fitting, and simple support and belief in me - which counts for a lot.
Maybe I should stop before it gets sentimental. But I could never make it all about me me me. Because it isn't and it shouldn't be. Therefore I will stop with a huge THANK YOU to all of you. xxxxxx
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