Stroud makes a stand!

[cs363]

Haven't seen any other threads regarding this:

http://www.stuff.co.nz/waikatotimes/4854476a6414.html

Would be interesting to hear KB'ers views, I'm erring on the side of agreeing with Stroud's actions on the basis that we have a handfull of top class riders who are a major part of the attraction and the rewards for motorcycle racing in NZ aren't exactly going to make anyone rich, and when you throw in the fact that Paeroa is a high speed potentially dangerous street circuit, then what is wrong with diverting a small amount of money to attract riders of the calibre of Stroud & Co? Perhaps the lure of some extra $$$ would have got Bugden there? (not sure of his reasons for not attending)
Surely the organisers can afford to skim a little off the top of the money made that just goes to the local rugby club or whomever?

Appearance or Start money is common place in many top forms of car racing in NZ so why is there a resistance to it on the motorcycle side?

Discuss....

[MVnut]

Good on you Stroudy, and all the best for the Champ Series

[AllanB]

Appearance or Start money is common place in many top forms of car racing in NZ so why is there a resistance to it on the motorcycle side?

Discuss....



Another thought - how much would you be prepared to pay to see top class riders?

I think the appearance $ is a fair call, what will it cost may be another matter.

Look how much people paid to see that Beckham chap in Wellington last year (and how much they lost in Auckland later in the year!).

Comparing Beckham with motorcycling what would you pay to see Rossi do a few laps (and burnouts) plus sign some tits ;) at lunch-time during a top NZ meet?

[Paul in NZ]

Seven kids.... feck....

[tri boy]

In the eighties in Aussie, we got paid $100 appearance money at each small town speedway track we raced at, plus prize money.
If you had a good night, it would pay for travel/methanol, tyre wear, and a few bourbons at the bar.
Can't believe guys like stroudy arn't getting good appearance money.
The top ten in each class should be on a sliding scale. It's not like the crowds arn't at the street rounds. MHO

[t3mp0r4ry nzr]

I definitely support Stroud's call. ALOT on the line for little reward.
:Offtopic:
Off topic rant: I REALLY dont know how the top super-bike guys meet budget. I really dont. $60k (one particular top level superbike riders annual race budget) is hard to front up with for anyone, Stroud (with 7 kids), included. I have seen what a particular top rider is remunerated from the so-called "factory" sponsership, and even considering many round wins, there would still be tens of thousands decficit to make up, by the rider or personal sponsers. The reward?? bragging rights. There is little monetary remuneration in NZ bike racing. GEEZ, they must really love racing bikes!!
:Offtopic:
Good on Stroudy for having the sack too!

Just to add: reading the above post reminded me of an article I read yesterday of past years speedway tails. Appearance money and prize money!! HOLY CRAP. The riders, to get appearance money, were contracted to approximately 25 meets per year at the nominated track. The appearance money was to attract the punters, ensuring boomer gate sales!! What UNBELIEVABLE times our generation has missed out on!!

[cs363]

I think the appearance $ is a fair call, what will it cost may be another matter.

My understanding is that the organisers are making quite good dosh the last few years, so I'm just questioning why not divert some of the present take? Because as I understand it the money is just going to local sports clubs etc. So I'm suggesting a few more slices of the pie...
So, in theory there should be no extra cost.

For the likes of Rossi and co I'm sure people would expect to pay 'over and above' :)

[mikeey01]

It's an interesting stand (hanging ones gonads out) but what this stems from is nothing short of greed, no not on Andrew's part but the organisers!

So someone bins it big time, who covers the costs?
Do you and I via ACC levies?
Should the organiser cover some of the cost?
What is the cost of entry for a racer and prize money?

[DEATH_INC.]

Be nice to see the lads being paid....but who decides who the top level riders are?
Be better to see every one getting paid, but would we all pay more to go and watch?
Bah, this is NZ...I doubt it'll happen.

[Kickaha]

Will not having Stroud there make any difference to the crowd figures ?

I would doubt it, so why would the organisers bother to pay to have him there

[sinfull]

....but who decides who the top level riders are?
.
Ummmm they do !!! Points = top correct ?

To be honest, if you were to say that i would see the same sort of racing at pie rowa that i saw last weekend at manfield (edge of the seat stuff) I'd make my way there now !
As it is, i may make it next year !

[Rob Taylor]

Yea well Done Andrew.We have $70k plus just in bikes & van alone..And yes it costs alot & we are always looking for help,but NZ motorcycle racing is very low profile & doesnt get much coverage....a thing sponsors need...So for us its a love affair :clap: (with Vicki not Nick..... well Nick if my wife has anything to do with it!!!):rolleyes:

[jafar]

As the top riders are not coming does this mean that the entry fee is mabey a bit high ? :argue:
This is like having the big day out with a karioke machine

[CHOPPA]

Fair enough, Andrew is a professional and i wouldnt go to work for free! I cant really relate though cause i would do anything to ride and it costs a fortune...

[CHOPPA]

As the top riders are not coming does this mean that the entry fee is mabey a bit high ? :argue:
This is like having the big day out with a karioke machine

Gareth Jones and Craig Sherriffs will be there who are just as fast...

[Taz]

Jeez I found out it was 25 bucks to go watch and decided that was too much so I wouldn't pay more. Would rather go for a ride.....

[jafar]

Gareth Jones and Craig Sherriffs will be there who are just as fast...

No offence but your missing the point, the TOP riders are not going to be there !
We are getting charged $25.00 per head to watch, surely some of that could / should be going to the riders & crews? They are after all the "entertainment "we are paying good money to go & see.

[cowpoos]

Fair enough, Andrew is a professional and i wouldnt go to work for free! I cant really relate though cause i would do anything to ride and it costs a fortune...
Your right...but I think there is more to it than that.

The riders...all of them...put thier bodys and skills on the line for what???

A show!! a show the punters are paying to see...ya think good actors would star in movies just to win a award??? nah...and they don't risk thier bodys like riders do...street racing ain't safe. and it potetially can effect a persons liverly hood.

Picture a self employed plumber racing....crashes...breaks a couple of legs...can't work?? what then?

[Crazy Steve]

Haven't seen any other threads regarding this:

http://www.stuff.co.nz/waikatotimes/4854476a6414.html

Would be interesting to hear KB'ers views, I'm erring on the side of agreeing with Stroud's actions on the basis that we have a handfull of top class riders who are a major part of the attraction and the rewards for motorcycle racing in NZ aren't exactly going to make anyone rich, and when you throw in the fact that Paeroa is a high speed potentially dangerous street circuit, then what is wrong with diverting a small amount of money to attract riders of the calibre of Stroud & Co? Perhaps the lure of some extra $$$ would have got Bugden there? (not sure of his reasons for not attending)
Surely the organisers can afford to skim a little off the top of the money made that just goes to the local rugby club or whomever?

Appearance or Start money is common place in many top forms of car racing in NZ so why is there a resistance to it on the motorcycle side?

Discuss....

If Stroud's not racing Winja and I arn't going.....:(

Crazy Steve..

[White trash]

I definitely support Stroud's call. ALOT on the line for little reward.
:Offtopic:
Off topic rant: I REALLY dont know how the top super-bike guys meet budget. I really dont. $60k (one particular top level superbike riders annual race budget) is hard to front up with for anyone, Stroud (with 7 kids), included. I have seen what a particular top rider is remunerated from the so-called "factory" sponsership, and even considering many round wins, there would still be tens of thousands decficit to make up, by the rider or personal sponsers. The reward?? bragging rights. There is little monetary remuneration in NZ bike racing. GEEZ, they must really love racing bikes!!
:Offtopic:
Good on Stroudy for having the sack too!

Just to add: reading the above post reminded me of an article I read yesterday of past years speedway tails. Appearance money and prize money!! HOLY CRAP. The riders, to get appearance money, were contracted to approximately 25 meets per year at the nominated track. The appearance money was to attract the punters, ensuring boomer gate sales!! What UNBELIEVABLE times our generation has missed out on!!
Yup. There certainly is a lot on the line. But the same for everybody that races. Where do you draw the line at who gets paid and who doesn't? That will see fields shrink o our street meeting grids look as sad as our Nationals.

I think perhaps increasing the prize money to a better level would be better. If you think you're good enough to command the big dollars, come race for it and win it.

[White trash]

No offence but your missing the point, the TOP riders are not going to be there !
We are getting charged $25.00 per head to watch, surely some of that could / should be going to the riders & crews? They are after all the "entertainment "we are paying good money to go & see.
No offence, but you don't kow what the fuck you're talking about.

Craig Shirriffs and Gareth Jones have repeatedly proved over the past two years that they ARE the top two riders currently competeing in the street meetings. Glenn Williams will campaign in F3. Nick Odermatt in BEARS. Lance Lowe will provide our entertainment.

Sounds thoroughly worth the tewnny fife pingas to me.

[Kickaha]

If Stroud's not racing Winja and I arn't going.....:(

Crazy Steve..

I doubt either of you will be missed

[t3mp0r4ry nzr]

I think perhaps increasing the prize money to a better level would be better. If you think you're good enough to command the big dollars, come race for it and win it.

Agreed that increasing the prizemoney available will make attending more attractive. The racing couldnt really be much closer than it is at the moment. The top guys all want to win. But for example I doubt the wise head of Stroud would push harder if the prize money was increased. He still has 7 kids to feed and clothe, he wouldnt risk broken leg/s for a couple hundred dollars more prize money (does Paeroa have prizemoney like Wanga's?? - cant remember, will find out today when I go). 1 week out from the deciding round at Puke - I dont blame stroud for sitting this out. He's only got one bike and two arms/legs!

However, from the organisers point of view. Why buy milk when you can milk the cow for free. Racers will race regardless. Unless they all boycott the event. Suddenly, the organiser will be looking at a reduced salary, as advertising rights will be harder to sell as big names wont be attending, forcing something to be done. Stroud making a stand wont change things unless, everyone else does the same: unlikely! He's still a good kunt tho! Will be cheering him on past the aussie boys at puke!

[roogazza]

Andrew Stroud is our best, good on him if he can get it !

Can anyone tell us what the prize money is at a street meet ? As an example 30yrs ago you would get 100-120 for a win. Gaz.

[mikeey01]

The last few times I went to Paeroa was well over ten years ago, it's grown a lot!

2007 15,000 people attended @ $20ea $300,000.00

The organisers give a percentage of this take to all the supporters, helpers etc, cover associated costs to setup, run and tear down after the event. The rest goes into the local community.
They bill this event as “The biggest event of the year!!” in their local visitors info.

For a win, Scale A $500 (king of the streets, formula Paeroa) , Scale B $400( pre 82, formula 2 etc)
So the guys aren't doing it for the money then.
As with all other forms of motorcycle racing in NZ it's for the love of the sport.

This years public entry fee is $25, based on 07 attendances $375,000.00

The event is now that big it could easily afford to cover some costs for the top guys.
Easily pay the entry fee for the other guys.
It could also afford to double the prize money.
All this and it would still have a positive financial return and pour funds back into the community.

Rider entry fee per class $90 + medical fee of $10.

As I originally said it's greed on the organisers behalf! (pptrust@xtra.co.nz)
If they are not careful it'll become a victim of it's own success and become so huge it'll have to be moved to Hamilton!

[Number One]

My thoughts on this are that I and many others I know that attend the street races have never attended or chosen not to 'specifically' because Stroud or any of the other TOP guys will or won't be there. I go because they are always an awesome days entertainment no matter who the hell is at the front.

ALSO I find it a little on the nose to think that those who are most likely to walk away with the big prize money believe they should be paid JUST TO SHOW UP. Like WT said - everyone is giving it their all and pushing. How much money do ya need when you get things so cheaply to begin with...what about all the guys/girls who show up pretty much knowing they are going to walk away with nothing but a smile on their dials having had a great day who also happen to pay full price for all the bits and bobs that keep them racing.

I agree that if anything should change the prize money should be upped and spread further.

Just my opinion

[mikeey01]

Craig Shirriffs and Gareth Jones have repeatedly proved over the past two years that they ARE the top two riders currently competeing in the street meetings. Glenn Williams will campaign in F3. Nick Odermatt in BEARS. Lance Lowe will provide our entertainment. Sounds thoroughly worth the tewnny fife pingas to me.

Ob-so-farken loutley! those fellas alone are awesome to watch and I agree.



The riders...all of them...put thier bodys and skills on the line. Street racing ain't safe. Potentially can effect a persons lively hood.
Picture a self employed plumber racing....crashes...breaks a couple of legs...can't work?? what then?

Again I agree, it's the same in all forms of semi amateur sport, rugby and the like...
We the tax payer have to pick up the pieces and carnage through ACC, the ogranisers don't!

It's a sport for christs sake, give them gladiators, all of them some!
Organisers see it as a way of making money, vast sums of it!

Rant over, as u were.

[Wingnut]

If the organisers really do make as much out of these events as some is making out, surely they could at least afford to do away with any entry fee for riders????

Wish I could run something where entertainers pay to entertain and Joe Public pays to come and watch. Dam - gotta be good profit margins there!!!

[Rcktfsh]

My thoughts on this are that I and many others I know that attend the street races have never attended or chosen not to 'specifically' because Stroud or any of the other TOP guys will or won't be there. I go because they are always an awesome days entertainment no matter who the hell is at the front.

ALSO I find it a little on the nose to think that those who are most likely to walk away with the big prize money believe they should be paid JUST TO SHOW UP. Like WT said - everyone is giving it their all and pushing. How much money do ya need when you get things so cheaply to begin with...what about all the guys/girls who show up pretty much knowing they are going to walk away with nothing but a smile on their dials having had a great day who also happen to pay full price for all the bits and bobs that keep them racing.

I agree that if anything should change the prize money should be upped and spread further.

Just my opinion

If you'd read the article you would have noted that the big prizemoney you speak off wouldn't actually pay the tyre bill even if you won every race, if the crowd is not there to see the top riders why is it the organisers use the top riders in promoting there event as opposed to some backmarker in F3? Please don't read that as a sleight on those making up the numbers as I appluad them for doing so and come to think of it have played that role myself, but to suggest there effort is the same as the top guys is ludicrous. As has been noted by others, asking for start money is not reinventing the wheel but common practice in motorsport and in fact many sports.

[Number One]

If you'd read the article you would have noted that the big prizemoney you speak off wouldn't actually pay the tyre bill even if you won every race, if the crowd is not there to see the top riders why is it the organisers use the top riders in promoting there event as opposed to some backmarker in F3? Please don't read that as a sleight on those making up the numbers as I appluad them for doing so and come to think of it have played that role myself, but to suggest there effort is the same as the top guys is ludicrous. As has been noted by others, asking for start money is not reinventing the wheel but common practice in motorsport and in fact many sports.
I did read the article actually and I still disagree with your comment.

Perhaps when you are paying 'retail' prices for your tyres it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that prize money wouldn't cover your tyre bill...in Strouds case I very much doubt he pays even half retail for a set of race tyres and how many races do you think he would probably take prize money home for - bet it wouldn't just be one.

ALSO I have known top end racers who get through these street races on one set of tyres easily only changing for wet conditions. Street tracks don't seem to require the same number of replacement sets that the tracks do.

AND YES I do take umbrage at the notion that the back markers aren't out there risking things like the top racers do...everyone out there racing is at risk. Hell sometimes the faster people take the slower ones out...sounds pretty darned risky to me.

I think start money is a great idea but I don't accept that ONLY the top guys should get it....maybe instead a better idea would be cheaper entry fees...especially if they really are making what they do off the event.

AND so the big names get used in promotion - so what...with the amount of publicity that the sport gets do you really think MR Joe Bloggs has any clue which one Stroud or some of the others are to begin with? I can tell you that there are many that don't and that attend because they are awesome days again no matter who is out in front. Just because Stroud ain't there I doubt very much that that will mean punters don't go.

[Number One]

ANd one more thing....some of those backmarkers bring family and friends with them who spend money in the community - so why should ONLY the big names get an enticement to 'show up'...seems to me that everyone on the track is providing entertainment for the punters...not just the guys at the front cleaning up all the prize money.

ALSO how many people do you think showed up to watch Trashy and or Flame for that matter....how much prize money did they take home? I would put money on their tyre bills not being covered.

[Kickaha]

ALSO how many people do you think showed up to watch Trashy and or Flame for that matter..

Probably more than turned up to watch Stroud:whistle:

[Nasty]

The last few times I went to Paeroa was well over ten years ago, it's grown a lot!

2007 15,000 people attended @ $20ea $300,000.00

The organisers give a percentage of this take to all the supporters, helpers etc, cover associated costs to setup, run and tear down after the event. The rest goes into the local community.
They bill this event as “The biggest event of the year!!” in their local visitors info.

For a win, Scale A $500 (king of the streets, formula Paeroa) , Scale B $400( pre 82, formula 2 etc)
So the guys aren't doing it for the money then.
As with all other forms of motorcycle racing in NZ it's for the love of the sport.

This years public entry fee is $25, based on 07 attendances $375,000.00

The event is now that big it could easily afford to cover some costs for the top guys.
Easily pay the entry fee for the other guys.
It could also afford to double the prize money.
All this and it would still have a positive financial return and pour funds back into the community.

Rider entry fee per class $90 + medical fee of $10.

As I originally said it's greed on the organisers behalf! (pptrust@xtra.co.nz)
If they are not careful it'll become a victim of it's own success and become so huge it'll have to be moved to Hamilton!

Sound all well and good ... but I would like to know the actual costs of running the event ... because at Vic we have far more expenses than you allowed for ... and I know these guys have even more being that they also have to have all the council stuff as well as the normal. Two days of volunteers and associated costs ... track timing and all that ... and all the other unheard ofs not on your list.

[mikeey01]

Right on No1 I like the logic!

Like I said....

"It's a sport for christs sake, give them Gladiators some, hell they deserve every cent.

Organisers (greedy bastards) (in Paeroas case, the PP council) see it as a way of making money, vast sums of it!
Long ago the event only existed to promote Paeroa, if it covered costs and hopefully make a little money along the way, well in good.
As for now I'll leave that one up to you.

I think it could become a victim of it's own success though and end going to a big city!

ALL of those Gladiators deserve more, tight pricks!
Still the racers come each year and race for the love, so I guess they figure no one's complaining why bother, till now perhaps?

Andrews a fairly levelled headed bloke, he does think of others too.
Still I'm wondering if he mentioned his concerns across the board, for all racers as well as his own and the journo, doing what journos do best... only took from it what they wanted.

[puddytat]

We're just going to have to be patient.....with global warming just kicking in, in about 10-20 years time ,there'll be more Aussies livin' here than in Oz,& half the planet will be looking for a place to live, & they'll bring all thier wealth with them...We are going to be swimming in money while the ones left over there will be swimmin' for there lives...
<_<:wait:

[Number One]

probably more than turned up to watch stroud:whistle:
my point exactly! Don't get me wrong Stroudy and the other top guys are fricken awesome to watch but to say that without him/other heavy weight racers showing up the number of punters would dwindle to nothing is a bit well to be honest bollocks.

[mikeey01]

Sound all well and good ... but I would like to know the actual costs of running the event ... because at Vic we have far more expenses than you allowed for ... and I know these guys have even more being that they also have to have all the council stuff as well as the normal. Two days of volunteers and associated costs ... track timing and all that ... and all the other unheard ofs not on your list.

Umm am I missing something here? I'm not sure where your going with it.
Did I mention all costings to run this event? Nope!

Track timing costs are partially covered by the racers, it's costs them $30 to have a transponder.
(Source http://www.battleofthestreets.co.nz/pdf/entry09.pdf)
.
Nor did I mention up to now, sponsors and the funds, man power and advertising they provide. This event for 09 used 72 clubs & businesses.

The event is run by PAEROA PROMOTIONS TRUST INC, like many trusts it uses volunteers to run events, of course logic suggests a volunteer is always going to be cheaper than paying someone out right, I'm sure you would understand and have some understanding of the value volunteers would have in an event this size, right?
They do pay their volunteers I might add.

Yes their costs are not cheap and they have to deal with more than the normal, closing a sate highway is not cheap! Some of their actual event costs would not be cheap either.

Still at the end of the day, after all the money is in, all the costs are covered and the bottom line profit figure is calculated what is the racers percentage of that? It's still only a decimal place!
Remember they are the ones who pay to race, we are the ones who pay to watch and the organisers are the ones who take the profit, it can't be put any simpler than that!

In fifteen meetings they have returned back to the community $350,315.00 (source http://www.battleofthestreets.co.nz/history.asp)

It's a great event, a good day out and a dam good street circuit to watch! I really do feel for the racers though, they should be giving them more!

[Shaun P]

Here's what the aussies now have for prize money this season run by a promoter for comparison

Prize money

Superbike per round $8025.00

1st $1500
2nd $1000
3rd $750
4th $475
5th $450
6th $425
7th $400
8th $375
9th $350
10 - 20th $200

Overall Championship Prize money $9500

1st $5000
2nd $2750
3rd $1750



Supersport per round - $7050.00

1st $1000
2nd $750
3rd $600
4th $500
5th $450
6th $425
7th $400
8th $375
9th $350
10th - 20th $200

Overall Championship Prize money - $7500

1st $4000
2nd $2500
3rd $1000



Superstock 1000 per round - $3100
B-grade

1st $750
2nd 500
3rd 300
C & D grade
1st $750
2nd 500
3rd 300




Superstock 600 per round - $1550
C & D grade

1st $750
2nd 500
3rd 300



125 GP per round - $3000

1st $1000
2nd $750
3rd $550
4th $400
5th $300



250 4- stroke per round - $1250

1st $600
2nd $400
3rd $250




FZ6 Masters/Historics/Sidecars per round - $1500

1st $500
2nd $400
3rd $300
4th $200
5th $100



Juniors per round - Prizes only

[cowpoos]

ALSO I find it a little on the nose to think that those who are most likely to walk away with the big prize money believe they should be paid JUST TO SHOW UP. Like WT said - everyone is giving it their all and pushing. How much money do ya need when you get things so cheaply to begin with...what about all the guys/girls who show up pretty much knowing they are going to walk away with nothing but a smile on their dials having had a great day who also happen to pay full price for all the bits and bobs that keep them racing.

I agree that if anything should change the prize money should be upped and spread further.

Just my opinion

There is no big prize money...and no doubt that top guys get there gear cheap/free...but

the majority of people are actually there to see the top guys fight it out...the guys behind them are a little bit slower...and not quite as exciting...but still good to watch...then the guys after them...much much slower...and not that exciting to watch. the people watching these races will watch other races...and know what fast is they will watch racing on tele and other events without a doubt...take the fast guys away...I bet ya people won't show...

The prize money has to be seriously upped!! 3k for a win...and filter right through the top ten at a decreasing rate!! they can't say that can't afford it...look at the figures someone else quoted on this thread.



Hell sometimes the faster people take the slower ones out...sounds pretty darned risky to me.


The slowest riders are by far the most dangerous people on the track...the fast riders biggest fear is hitting one..because the speed differential is sooo great...marshels should blue flag or even black flag slow guys on the streets much more than they do.


Organisers (greedy bastards) see it as a way of making money, vast sums of it!
Long ago the event only existed to promote Paeroa, if it covered costs and hopefully make a little money along the way, well in good.
As for now I'll leave that one up to you.



They do give alot of it away for charity...why don't they look after the reason they have the show to start with...BTW...no one has mention the advertising revenue they may make...



I'm still wondering if he mentioned his concerns across the board for all as well as what has been printed and the journo, doing what journos do best only took from it what they wanted.

Ditto

[Number One]

Ttake the fast guys away...I bet ya people won't show...

I'm genuinely interested to know then WHO chose to NOT go to Paeroa due to Stroudy not being there?


The prize money has to be seriously upped!! 3k for a win...and filter right through the top ten at a decreasing rate!! they can't say that can't afford it...look at the figures someone else quoted on this thread.

Heck yes!


The slowest riders are by far the most dangerous people on the track...the fast riders biggest fear is hitting one..because the speed differential is sooo great...marshels should blue flag or even black flag slow guys on the streets much more than they do. o

I totally agree with this :niceone:

The thing is though slow or not they bring people with them who are keen to see them out there...and it is all money in the pockets of the organisers.

I SAY GIVE MORE MONEY FOR PRIZES AND MAKE IT EASIER FOR THEM ALL TO SHOW UP! Some people travel from a fair distance to come + they pay entry fees + accomodation + food and stuff for the time they are there. Someone is winning out of all this and it's the racers I think that are dipping out.

[cowpoos]

I'm genuinely interested to know then WHO chose to NOT go to Paeroa due to Stroudy not being there?



Drop the top 4-5 riders out of each main class...I'd give the event 3-4 years before its dead

[Number One]

Drop the top 4-5 riders out of each main class...I'd give the event 3-4 years before its dead
But again WHO decided not to go because Stroudy wasn't there AND so far it would seem that only Stroud is saying that he won't show because he isn't being offered an appearance fee. Is that to say that the top 4/5 riders in each class all feel the same? I'm sure they wouldn't be disappointed to be offered a fee but are they saying they won't show unless they get this? The street races are pretty cool and from what I hear they all enjoy them immensely

[Kickaha]

Here's what the aussies now have for prize money this season run by a promoter for comparison

And as a fair comparison what do they pay for entries, insurance, and licence


Drop the top 4-5 riders out of each main class...I'd give the event 3-4 years before its dead

I think you're dreaming, people will go to the racing regardless so long as there is good racing even if it is the "no names"


But again WHO decided not to go because Stroudy wasn't there

Hard to prove, but my uneducated guess is pretty much no one

[cowpoos]

AND so far it would seem that only Stroud is saying that he won't show because

Craig Shirrifs doesn't like racing the streets either...he has said it publically a few times on teli.

I don't think people on here realise how much of a pull these top riders are... its no secret that I have throw spanners for stroud a number times...we get huge volumes of people stopping for auotgraphes and posters/photo's etc...hes a house hold ledgend. and the same goes for the other top riders.

How many guys go get Kickaha autograph in previous seasons [I say pervious because they 4th in champs sofar this year]

The people that are passionate about racing will still go...your right Kick...but so so so many people won't be as interested...TV crews won't care so much...and it will be down hill from there...

[Shaun P]

And as a fair comparison what do they pay for entries, insurance, and licence


Senior National Licence is $265 per year

Senior Club Licence is $230 per year

+ you need ambulance cover @ around $50

Entry Fees

$495 x Superbikes (includes Friday practice)
$480 x Supersports (includes Friday practice)
$440 x 125/250 4-stroke (includes Friday practice)
$340 x Superstock 1000s
$340 x Superstock 600s
$310 x Juniors
$340 x FZ6 Masters
$340 x Historics
$400 x Sidecars
$120 Cross Entries for all eligible classes

[Kickaha]

How many guys go get Kickaha autograph in previous seasons [I say pervious because they 4th in champs sofar this year]



3-4 a year:woohoo:

[cowpoos]

3-4 a year:woohoo:
Not including the gay parade signatures....

[Number One]

Craig Shirrifs doesn't like racing the streets either...he has said it publically a few times on teli.
AND yet he continues to do so without an appearance fee...why do it then?

[cowpoos]

AND yet he continues to do so without an appearance fee...why do it then?
Sponsers require the exposure.

[Number One]

Sponsers require the exposure.
SPONSORS...evil people them! Them and their damn wads of cash :lol:

OK now I'm just being a bit contrary ;) Happy to agree to disagree with you.

[Kickaha]

Not including the gay parade signatures....

you didn't specify motorcycle events

[Tony.OK]

Well after reading all this and having just done my 1st Paeroa, I'm wondering why I had so much fun:crazy:
I knew I'd get no money, I knew I'd not win.........but fuck I had a ball out there, some great battles with other like minded riders.

No one has mentioned the fact that the NATIONALS pay ZERO dollars compared to $500 for a win at Paeroa...................so why do the Nationals at all?

Also...............where else can you pay $25 for an entire day of entertainment these days? People spend more than that on takeaways:innocent:

[Billy]

No one has mentioned the fact that the NATIONALS pay ZERO dollars compared to $500 for a win at Paeroa...................so why do the Nationals at all?



Actually,There might not be a choice with that.One of the officials I spoke too at Paeroa yesterday suggested they were questioning the viability of running the Nationals as the turn out has been so disappointing

[driftn]

No one has mentioned the fact that the NATIONALS pay ZERO dollars compared to $500 for a win at Paeroa...................:

Dont forget the $100 for each lap led in the king of the streets race, I say to stroud grow a pair and race for your winnings makes for some good racing. As for the streets are dangerous, Yeah they are but alot of us ride on the road and we dont get paid for it and we have to contend with cars and shit. If he is truely NZ's number 1 then come and bloody well prove it.

[HenryDorsetCase]

I've read an article last year in Classic Racer* about guys racing in the '60's. I think this was Bill Ivy or Phil Read, before they got their works rides. This guy was a toolmaker at an engineering works and was giving his resignation to his boss. "But son, if you stay on, in a few years you could earn 20 quid a week". "Er, yes, but I earned 200 quid this weekend from bike racing."

Doug Polen in the '80s was the "Man in a van with a plan": he raced two classes in the Suzuki GSXR series and made a living at it. Eventually picked up a factory seat.

I for one would pay higher entry if it guaranteed the top guys some reward. I agree with Stroud about street racing being insanely dangerous. Thats part of the attraction of course, but to do it for nothing?! Not on.

[Quasievil]

I dunno about it all really, I think if the top riders want appearance fees thats fine, wanting and getting are kinda different things in my learnings

Anyway if its about drawing a crowd and the entertainment I think alot of people go to see action, that means crashes, that means as I crashed twice on the day that means I provided entertainment , that means (in my little world) I should get paid for each crowd pleasing crash ????

[Shaun]

Congratulations on your desision making Andrew! Andrew races as his job, it is how he pays his bills.

His contract is obviously only for the NZ Championships, with the street racing being his own choice to do or not to do.

15-000 x $25-00 paying people is a huge bank roll for the day, it is always WELL DOCUMENTED how much money was givin back to the community for the event, f the community, they make there money from the shops being open and all the people in thre town spending money whilst at the races

The races would NOT happen with out the riders

Paeroa does NOT even pay the same level of prize money as the Wanganui club pays out why??????

any one who can get on here and bad mouth Andrew for making his decision to not race, has NO real idea how Andrew;s life works for him!

It is hs choice, and good on him for trying to help set an example for the future stars

[svr]

People are forgetting that street race meetings are `owned' by the organisers, who take a big financial risk. 20 yrs ago every second town had a street race but they haven't lasted - Riders & spectators have voted with their feet.
If there really is `more in the pot' potentially available for riders then it should be prize money for top 3 placings in the premier classes to attract and reward proffessional level riders or anyone good enough to beat them. Put it up for grabs!
Also, if people think its easier to win $500 in an aussie road race maybe they should talk to kiwis that have tried...

[gav]

Good on Stroudy, I don't think its just for his own cause, I'm sure he's hoping that more can benefit than just him. Anyway, heard a rumour we might yet see Stroudy punting a V8 in NZ Supercars :Offtopic:.
While I'm sure not many made the decision to not attend due to Strouds absence, I'm betting alot would've been disappointed that he wasn't there?

[scrivy]

Interesting problem.

I fully support Andrew in his decision.
Yes he is a professional racer, and no he is not contracted to race at the streets.
We all know that racers of his calibre do indeed bring greater spectator audiences to these types of events – you cannot argue with that, period.
How do we fund them for their extra risks that they take over club level racers?
I can’t believe people say they wouldn’t pay more to watch the event over the $25 currently charged, rather staying at home in protest.
What if petrol went to $3.00/litre? People would still ride for hours to watch these races, and spend another $5 in doing so for higher fuel prices! You cannot do anything these days without paying a fortune for a whole days amusement!
I believe that spectators should pay an extra $2-5 each for entry. This could rake in an extra $24,000 to $60,000 based on only 12,000 spectators.
At 200 competitors, each one could either receive a free entry, or maybe the top 10 finishers could get an extra $300 on top of their prizemoney pool. Or use a sliding scale with a higher rate for first place. Also, why not ask for a higher level of sponsorship for each race to pay higher prizemoney?

Yes, I know we all do it for love, and any financial reward is a bonus. But when a sideshow rolls into town, do the performers do it for free?
Yes money goes back into the community, as a heck of a lot of community clubs etc work damn hard to bring us this event. There would be thousands of man hours used to get this event to run as it does. I don’t begrudge them for making a profit. Where are all the hands up from other towns prepared to take a punt and a huge risk at running one of these events?
I organise my Taupo Road Race Spectacular event in a totally different way. I don’t run it for a profit. I give it all back to the competitors. But I can do that, as I don’t have a huge committee or organisation to consider.
Having Stroudy at my meeting does bring in more spectators, which I use to offset the racers entry fees. It was fantastic to also get the likes of Gareth and other International riders at my event also.
So, would I pay appearance money? If I had racers of an international standard at my event racing hard out and having the spectators on the edges of their seats, then I would have to say YES.
Andrew is not just a NZ icon, he’s also a US AMA Formula Extreme Champion, World BEARS Champion, competed in 41 World Superbike races and even 20 GP races. His continual talent commands respect!
He does bring spectators, it’s as simple as that. Should he and other top level racers be financially rewarded for ensuring more spectators turn up and maintain the security of the events itself? YES.

But this is just my opinion.

[gav]

So, what ya paying Schwantzy to come back? :msn-wink:

[scrivy]

So, what ya paying Schwantzy to come back? :msn-wink:

Hee hee...........
I was waiting for that Gav!!!
I'm re-mortgaging my house...........:eek5:

[hospitalfood]

reminds me of a stand made buy a top racer in the 70's. think his name was Kenny Roberts. changed the whole game for the racing boys and got them a fair deal.
I see no reason why NZ can't get it together, look after the racers and get a good race thing going on here.
I would love to see big races with top name international race boys coming here, also flat track racing picking up.
we have a great riding community in NZ and KB leads the field in bike sites, what can we do as a group ( many thousands of us ) to get more happening in the race / meet and rally scene ???????????????

[CHOPPA]

Apperance money would be fair if the promoters were using your name to promote the event. If not then you cant really demand it i suppose.

What do Brother pay Andrew to do? Im sure its to race and get as much coverage for them as possible? Its sorta irrelavent if theres start money or not if thats already your job.....

I was happy with the prize money i got, i used a set of used tyres so effectivly they didnt cost me anything so basically the same money as it would cost to race a pmcc race but i got prize money!

In saying all that i support andrews decision and im glad he stuck by his guns and didnt give them the satisfaction of having him there after he had asked for start money. Maybe next time he asks they might be more inclined to give him some cash cause its not an empty threat :)

[wharfy]

Because as I understand it the money is just going to local sports clubs etc.

Not saying there should not be appearance money, but the local sports clubs provide the volunteers who do all the set-up and CLEAN UP for the event. It is a HUGE effort. If too much was shaved off they might not be so inclined to help.

The IOM TT survives quite nicely without the MotoGP or Superbike guy's turning up.

Also I'm not sure that many "non bikers" would know who the top riders were. A lot of the punters just go to drink piss in the sun and maybe see a crash.

Im glad I don't have to make the call !!

[wharfy]

Dont forget the $100 for each lap led in the king of the streets race, I say to stroud grow a pair and race for your winnings makes for some good racing. As for the streets are dangerous, Yeah they are but alot of us ride on the road and we dont get paid for it and we have to contend with cars and shit. If he is truely NZ's number 1 then come and bloody well prove it.

Grow a pair !!! Did you see him banging fairings with Budgen at Manfield !! If his balls were any bigger he'd need a wheel barrow to carry them around. He's raced at the IOM TT he is 7 times NZ Champ. He doesn't need to prove anything to anyone !!!

[Quasievil]

As for the streets are dangerous, Yeah they are but alot of us ride on the road and we dont get paid for it and we have to contend with cars and shit.

Um kinda no comparision dude, I would take the cars n shit anyday (from a safety perspective at least) lol

[Squid69]

I definitely support Stroud's call. ALOT on the line for little reward.
:Offtopic:
Off topic rant: I REALLY dont know how the top super-bike guys meet budget. I really dont. $60k (one particular top level superbike riders annual race budget) is hard to front up with for anyone, Stroud (with 7 kids), included. I have seen what a particular top rider is remunerated from the so-called "factory" sponsership, and even considering many round wins, there would still be tens of thousands decficit to make up, by the rider or personal sponsers. The reward?? bragging rights. There is little monetary remuneration in NZ bike racing. GEEZ, they must really love racing bikes!!
:Offtopic:
Good on Stroudy for having the sack too!

Just to add: reading the above post reminded me of an article I read yesterday of past years speedway tails. Appearance money and prize money!! HOLY CRAP. The riders, to get appearance money, were contracted to approximately 25 meets per year at the nominated track. The appearance money was to attract the punters, ensuring boomer gate sales!! What UNBELIEVABLE times our generation has missed out on!!


before they could offer money they would have to make it.

There is another post about the puke national round on here...being canceled because of not enough entries.
you bring the crowds im sure they would be able to offer bigger prizes/money.

At wanganui there was prize money, i think it was 250 for first, down to 25 for 9th and 10th for the "minor" classes and 450 down to 50 in the others

[Buckets4Me]

good on him is all I can say

I would pay to race on the same track as him (at the same time even)



just remember he has 7 kids to buy bikes for (how much is an R1 :doh:)
and collage weddings etc :jerry:

[mikeey01]

Grow a pair !!! Did you see him banging fairings with Budgen at Manfield !! If his balls were any bigger he'd need a wheel barrow to carry them around. He's raced at the IOM TT he is 7 times NZ Champ. He doesn't need to prove anything to anyone !!!

You are so right!

He's already been there, done that and now at 40 me thinks he's still doing dam well to keep up with fellas half his age!

Punt the Brittan around the IOM? yeah he must have some!

[scrivy]

Grow a pair !!! Did you see him banging fairings with Budgen at Manfield !! If his balls were any bigger he'd need a wheel barrow to carry them around. He's raced at the IOM TT he is 7 times NZ Champ. He doesn't need to prove anything to anyone !!!

You are so right Wharfy.

But people who don't know Andrew, will think his stand is selfish and for his own good. Little do they know that he is not far from retirement from superbike racing. His stand is for the next generation of elite racers that will take his place.
Just like all the GP stars of years gone by that stood up for safer racetracks around the world. They made a difference, and so too will Andrew.

I applaud Stroudy for his actions!!

Until Strouds retirement, may the great racing continue!!!

Looking forward to Puke...............................


Scrivy

[koba]

15-000 x $25-00 paying people is a huge bank roll for the day, it is always WELL DOCUMENTED how much money was givin back to the community for the event, f the community, they make there money from the shops being open and all the people in thre town spending money whilst at the races


Most of the stuff said on this thread is interesting and reasonably valid either way but the red underlined but there is a bit off colour, it would not take all that many vocal detractors with a bit of local swing whinging loud enough to ruin the whole thing.
I think it important to recognise and respect the effort that goes into making the event happen and the tolerance the locals have for a hoard of loud motorcyclists invading their main street for a day!

It was my first time watching, I don't have a bike that I can race there yet but I thought it was a great event, $25 bucks was a good price and for the same entry coin as a night at the speedway I got to see some brilliant racing.
Adding up the cost of getting up there and the like it would have been a couple of hundie bucks just to watch but I'm still well happy with that and will be back next year with a bike, prize money or not!