Power Kite Forum

Kite Buggy Show on Fox Sports POSTPONED

BeamerBob - 2-2-2012 at 10:33 AM

I got a call from a childhood friend this morning. He runs a video production company and is interested in doing a show about Kite Buggying. His shows run on Fox Sports and I think is called "In the Driver's seat".

He says he has watched the videos I've shared and posted on Facebook and thinks it is an interesting sport that would be fun to shoot and already has ideas about how to do it. He says he likes that it is a somewhat obscure sport that isn't common knowledge and also that it has an extreme side to it with the power and speed.

He said that on the day or days we shoot, the more that can be there, the more footage he has to work with. He would use multiple cameras on some buggies as well as stationary cameras to capture what goes on. His crew will be in Vegas in early May for a rodeo that he is doing a show on (a specialty of his). The rodeo goes on at night and he says they would just be hanging out during the day anyway so why not do this during the day and rodeo at night.

More info will come as we get closer but it looks like its a go. Anyone that could show up when the shooting days happen would certainly be welcome and would add to the quality and diversity of the show.

Bigbear97e - 2-2-2012 at 10:44 AM

sounds like a great event and a good way to promote the sport .... good on ya Bob

.... O.K. everyone ... let's have a little fun at Bob's expense :tumble: ... I am sure he won't mind .....the task is let's come up with a name for the show ... me first .... BeamerBob's Buggy Bonanza .... I can't wait to hear what gOOfba11 comes up with :spin::evil:....

BeamerBob - 2-2-2012 at 11:07 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Bigbear97e
sounds like a great event and a good way to promote the sport .... good on ya Bob

.... O.K. everyone ... let's have a little fun at Bob's expense :tumble: ... I am sure he won't mind .....the task is let's come up with a name for the show ... me first .... BeamerBob's Buggy Bonanza .... I can't wait to hear what gOOfba11 comes up with :spin::evil:....


Bigbear, I must say when I saw "let's have a little fun at Bob's expense" I was instantly worried about G00f.:ticking::smilegrin:

Cheddarhead - 2-2-2012 at 12:41 PM

What a fantastic opportunity! Exactly the type of exposure this sport deserves.

Way to go Bob!

WARNING - DO NOT DO THIS!!!

bison - 2-2-2012 at 02:09 PM

:mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad:

FOX has burned the kite community before. They in no way should be allowed to sully the reputation of kiting in the US and beyond, again!!!

We have had enough trouble due to the national news showing ONLY the BAD part of our sport. They refuse to show how safe the sport can be.

They are simply out for sensationalizing the dangers of these types of sports and MAKING A PROFIT.

THEY ARE NOT TO BE TRUSTED AT ANYTIME!

Friend or not, he has a producer that will take even the smallest footage of a buggy wreck or accident and exploit it!!!

The article linked below has 684 words. 353 words are used to say how dangerous the sport is. No mention of the safety measures that are taken just a doctor's comment on the dangers and quotes from Bob that make it look that much worse.

SEE BELOW HOW FOX HAS BURNED THIS COMMUNITY IN THE PAST:

Original Article:
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,98961,00.html

Bob Childs Response:
http://www.doomwheels.com/articles/foxnews.php

:mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad:

BeamerBob - 2-2-2012 at 06:25 PM

My friend IS the producer. He has 13 episodes he does for Fox SPORTS. This isn't a news story, but a show of entertainment for stuff that most people don't do. Offroad racing, bullriding and such as that. He's here for a week, so I would avoid days with gusty winds where an issue could come up. I can see how Bob was roasted and it was apparently the full intention from the beginning. During our phone call, danger and injuries were never mentioned. Consider your advice taken but I'll proceed with caution and a wary eye.

bison - 3-2-2012 at 11:04 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by BeamerBob
My friend IS the producer.


Is he the EXECUTIVE Producer? In other words, does he have the final say as to what appears on air? Does he deliver the final product? or does he provide raw footage? (BIG RED FLAG THERE)

Quote:
He's here for a week, so I would avoid days with gusty winds where an issue could come up.


My experience with media is that you work around their schedule not the other way around.

Quote:
I can see how Bob was roasted and it was apparently the full intention from the beginning. During our phone call, danger and injuries were never mentioned. Consider your advice taken but I'll proceed with caution and a wary eye.


I imagine that the conversation that Bob had went about the same way. Just look at the quotes that they used.

Fox Sports is a wholly owned subsidiary of News Corp. News Corp is currently under investigation for ILLEGALLY hacking phones in the UK. Your friend may be an upstanding individual, but its the people that pay him that I have concerns with. Might think about getting something in writing that has language essentially stating "not shown in unfavorable light" etc...

You know him much better than I do, think about mentioning this to him. Show him the links, voice your concerns BEFORE any footage is shot.

Looking_Up - 3-2-2012 at 03:21 PM

I trust u bob and I have my eye on ur arcs but just waiting on the old paycheck the media will always spin it for what ever they want but bob is doing something good and I am shur he will talk only about the saftey measures and not the near misses because if he just says how he chooses to protect himself and not what might come to be they will have no ammo to spin

BeamerBob - 3-2-2012 at 04:28 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Looking_Up
I trust u bob and I have my eye on ur arcs but just waiting on the old paycheck the media will always spin it for what ever they want but bob is doing something good and I am shur he will talk only about the saftey measures and not the near misses because if he just says how he chooses to protect himself and not what might come to be they will have no ammo to spin


Thanks for the faith! I hear politicians say stuff all the time and cringe at what the soundbite can be turned into. I've looked at Bryan's work and its all entertainment of at least somewhat extreme activities.

silvereaglekiter - 3-2-2012 at 04:39 PM

The Tower industry went through the same thing a few years back with "Tower dogs" on Discovery.
But recently Dirty Jobs and Toughest Fixes both did a good job.

wheresthewind? - 3-2-2012 at 07:11 PM

i worked in the engineering dept of a tv station for 5 years, and repeatedly reporters would twist stories for controversy.....in fact there was a special consultant that would come every 6 months or so, and specifically told the news crew to slant things to prey on peoples emotions and spin stories to make them of a more dubious nature..... not much honor in the news business, very unscrupulous...... no small wonder why the media is so vilified these days...... if i were beamer bob, id be very careful.......

wheresthewind? - 3-2-2012 at 07:35 PM

cheezycheese --i tried sending a u2u but it wouldnt go thru, i'll try later.....

soliver - 5-2-2012 at 11:53 PM

My 2 cents: trying to be objective...

Let's take a second and study the situation, and try to logically work through it...

a. By all appearances Fox News' "in the driver seat" is a show about driving stuff that goes fast.

b. The guy who produces the show about driving stuff that goes fast wants to do a story about driving something that goes fast (kite buggy in this scenario)

c. In the past, the buggying community was burned ONCE by a sensationalist.

d. In the spirit of shows like "mythbusters" or "dirty jobs" there is likely an opening disclaimer about "trained professionals--don't try this at home-- etc."

Add it all together and you get a+b+c+d = avoiding speculation about what MIGHT happen and in lieu of ONE previous bad experience, logic would dictate that this doesn't seem like a big deal. However much in the same way that being spanked by our kites can make us skiddish to get back on the horse, it is reasonable to proceed,... but with some REASONABLE amount of caution.

It isn't my intent to sound sarcastic or snarky,... this is just how I see it.

I think its a good idea and can be a positive promotion of the sport, Bob.

MyAikenCheeks - 6-2-2012 at 04:33 PM

Mar 24, 2010
Fritz Gramkowski demonstrates traction kiting with buggies for CBS morning TV.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ffsUpqgK68

I saw this and thought it was a positive statement about our sport. Short & sweet.


MyAikenCheeks

____________________
Slingshot 1.2 trainer
Pro 3m trainer
Zebra Z1 3m
PKD Brooza 4m
Wipika 5m
Elliot Ekko 6.3m
Cabrinha Nitro 12m Recon 2
KT3 Aluminum bug hybrid pimp out (thats the way I roll)

Trojan horse on a buggy...but what if that buggy was partly driven by you ..

skimtwashington - 6-2-2012 at 06:22 PM

Bison makes a fair warning for general concern.

Most of us think it's neat to have some media coverage on our kiting sport...and Bob was obviously being forthright and trying to promote a positive image of a great sport and community. WE, I believe, appreciate and commend him for this.

But the media is careless and sometimes dangerous and holds out carrots that take in even the most savvy and cynical .

You need to know the exact content, history and direction of the person who is producing this show and show itself of course, and how the story will be presented.

I can't help but think that Bob himself unintentionally may have said things in the interview that were fuel for a reporter wanting to inflict a negative slant.. out of context or in context... or by itself:
Quote:

this is surely the most dangerous of all kite traction sports and often leaves enthusiasts with broken bones. Kite jumping should only be performed on soft sand.


Saying ,"often leaves enthusiast with broken.."may not have been the best thing to say. "Often"...bad word.

Better to have said, "If done by novice or untrained pilots...MAY result in broken bones("injuries" would have been 'softer' than "broken bones"). Most pilots learn control with smaller jumps and thus this should only be done by experienced trained pilots....."


I have a question whether popularizing or seeking TV or article promotion is necessarily a good thing?

Will it make the sport safer?

Will it protect, allow or open more access of places to ride or play?

This may be an old topic but is at the heart of this discussion.

After reading the Fox article I find it did leave the reader with perhaps too much of a negative slant.

But Bob admitting to story of a runaway buggy slamming into a truck and doing $1500 damages only feeds the negativity. That may have been better kept to oneself. Honest ..yes. But a+b+c(a=broken bones, b=$1500 damage, c=Dr Ho says,"Not worth the risks) = Negative slant.

There wasn't enough -nor may not have ever been enough positive angles-even if a bunch were added- to counter a,b,and c.

Football is a much more injurious sport but it only hurts the players and does not have the possibility of hurting innocent bystanders(beach walkers) or peoples property(truck body).

Safety and caution should be a concern, not just using the kites, but also when not using the kite....especially with dealing with the media.

If you think entertainment value does not come way before fair and balanced and loyal to the subject- you'll often be very mistaken about many media venues and entities.

:roll: :roll:

:roll::roll::roll::roll:

lad - 6-2-2012 at 08:29 PM

A continuing series about "extreme sports" is targeting a knowledgeable audience. Such sports already have built-in "sensationalism" and the stories would tend to come down on the side of promoting the sports.

A segment or report on a general audience daily newscast is typically fear-based sensationalism and would tend to come off as a warning or expose. The only way around this would be to have the sport event organized for some charitable or community cause.

It would be a two-edge sword to promote any extreme sport that takes place on scarce public land: Undisciplined beginners can start to crowd out public spaces; accidents are more common or blown out of proportion...just pointing out the other side of things here that I've read has happened at kite surfing locales.

coreykite - 7-2-2012 at 12:42 PM

Hey Sailors,

There is good and bad in media relations.
Creating a buzz to entice viewership (and exposure to the ads) is the bottom line in television programming.
Depending on the personnel involved, could do good or harm.

But then there's this:
Assume it is positive...
Creates a popular buzz about our sport...
Next nabx is overrun with 5000+ attendees...
(we saw it on TV!)

Now what?

Just something to think about...


Safen Up! Buggy On!

"Often wrong... Never in doubt"

the coreylama - Mayor of Buggytown

BeamerBob - 7-2-2012 at 12:52 PM

Somebody is going to sell a bunch of kites and buggies. Lottery system to be able to attend NABX.

I think the video will be a positive outlook on the sport and cause some awareness of it, but not any insane growth. I figure on moving forward unless something doesn't seem right. All his other work I can find is upbeat and "look how much fun this would be" type coverage. It is typically something the masses doesn't participate in but is entertained by watching how others make it work.

All who are able to participate are welcome to help guide this towards a positive outcome............. Whatever that is.

wheresthewind? - 7-2-2012 at 12:54 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by lad
A continuing series about "extreme sports" is targeting a knowledgeable audience. Such sports already have built-in "sensationalism" and the stories would tend to come down on the side of promoting the sports.

A segment or report on a general audience daily newscast is typically fear-based sensationalism and would tend to come off as a warning or expose. The only way around this would be to have the sport event organized for some charitable or community cause.

It would be a two-edge sword to promote any extreme sport that takes place on scarce public land: Undisciplined beginners can start to crowd out public spaces; accidents are more common or blown out of proportion...just pointing out the other side of things here that I've read has happened at kite surfing locales.
exactly right on the first 2 paragraphs.... no opinion on the 3rd.......

If you researched the program and careful on how YOU Present yourself-go for it! But...

skimtwashington - 7-2-2012 at 09:26 PM

'A double edge sword with no sheath may cut it's bearer'


Behind the scenes:"This program has been all 'milk toast'! We need to start making this program exciting and get more views and sponsor money starting with next feature. Who we got coming on? A kite buggy guy?
.... Here's what I want you to get him to talk about and what I want you to ask and get him to do...

....and if not here's what you say and edit out/in..":o


If you go forward......Let's all hope it's a wonderfully positive ride

lad - 7-2-2012 at 09:45 PM

As I was inferring, I would think a "Driver's Seat" type show/producer would be more interested in promoting the sport in general.

The other side of the coin is hearing about some of the safety concerns developing with so many riders at the WWBB last Fall.
Or reading of kite surfers complaining about increased crowding at their usual spots as Kite Surfing caught on more and more (a reason why one took up landboarding!)

Ivanpah has enough room for a lot of riders, but most public beaches have their limits.

Drewculous - 7-2-2012 at 10:33 PM

Bobby.... You have to be yourself... get our name out there, promote our breed of fun... If they twist it, too bad... If 5000 people show up to nabx... Hell yeah! 5000 more kiters!

You cant control anyone.... People will do what they will, all you can do is your best.

If someone asks you to show them a kite, what do any of you do?? Me, I explain the kite to them, the safety, the ways to operate the sail, and watch them smile! If they have a question or two or ten, hell ill talk kites all freaking day!

We dont belong to an exclusive club of better people.... Show this guy our sport... And if he slams you, that sucks, but if it gets one person involved in kiting, its worth it.... The people that really want to fly, wont be bothered some bad publicity... Theyll seek out positive kiters, and people who know the sport inside and out, not news reporters...


Do the show Bobby, and do your best to show people how awesome this sport is. And maybe... Maybe, someone will get the same feeling i do, deep inside, when i see the wind blow.

Drewculous - 7-2-2012 at 10:42 PM

Oh, congrats on the tv spot btw!

Post a link when its available, I look forward to it!

BeamerBob - 8-2-2012 at 08:38 AM

Thanks for that Drewculous! It's pretty much what I was thinking but hadn't put into words yet.

wheresthewind? - 8-2-2012 at 09:45 AM

after reading all these posts, i say go for it also..... look at it this way--people are going to do and say whatever the hell they want about kiting and usually, theres not alot we can do, except play responsibly..... there are plenty of utube vids showing both sides of the kiting sport, positive and negative.....people as individuals have to come to their own conclusions..... organizations and groups opposed to kiting, well thats another story altogether.......

shehatesmyhobbies - 8-2-2012 at 10:25 AM

I also say go for it Bob. Kite Buggying is such a rush. Having someone like you get on T.V. and promote it safely, will do great things for the sport. As far as NABX and WBB getting a larger crowd, I'm with Drew! Just a few more people to kite with. At WBB there is about 8 miles of beach. The beach is 300yds wide if not wider. There is always room for another kiter in my book. You just have to have things set up right to handle it.

Go for it Bob, make us proud!

BeamerBob - 8-2-2012 at 12:33 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by shehatesmyhobbies
I also say go for it Bob. Kite Buggying is such a rush. Having someone like you get on T.V. and promote it safely, will do great things for the sport. As far as NABX and WBB getting a larger crowd, I'm with Drew! Just a few more people to kite with. At WBB there is about 8 miles of beach. The beach is 300yds wide if not wider. There is always room for another kiter in my book. You just have to have things set up right to handle it.

Go for it Bob, make us proud!


Thanks for the confidence Rich! I guess being "someone like me" is a good thing? :duh: :duh: :lol:

PHREERIDER - 8-2-2012 at 12:33 PM

smile and ride! just do your session and letem get what they can. you are the pilot, right ?
he wants fresh content, and the chatty factor (which he knows can be twisted ) they count on it.

what about the "the silent bob kite buggy show"

tell them your sessions comes with a soundtrack! and has no room for dialogue!

mougl - 8-2-2012 at 01:35 PM

I've been holding my tongue long enough. IMHO, this is a fantastic opportunity for the kiting community as a whole. We all work hard to get exposure for our sport, why? To help it grow. I've seen all the posts here bringing up very valid points about public beaches and lake beds getting potentially crowded, safety issues due to crowding, safety issues about new pilots trying to fly outside of their skill set. Very good, very valid points. Let's take a quick look at these points.

"Our favorite spots getting crowded" - It would seem this is going to happen over time either way since we all try to promote our sport right? Well, on the flip side of that coin, perhaps we would all be shown some fresh real estate to fly on with new faces in our community? Just a thought.

"Safety issues due to crowding" - Another very good point, but shouldn't we, as more experienced pilots take some responsibility in educating new pilots on the do's and don'ts of flying in less than wide open spaces?

"Safety issues due to new pilots trying to go "HOOJ" - We see this now. We have all tried to push the limits. My first kite was a Twister II 5.6m for crying out loud. Again, I feel that it is up to us as a community to do what we have been doing all along and promoting safe kiting.

I truly believe this is going to do more good than harm if it is presented by Bob and whomever else can make the taping. We have a chance to help our sport, and community grow here. I stand behind BB 100% on this because I trust his judgement as well as trust in him to promote safe kiting in the segment.

Maybe make a reference to PKF or other forums the public can access to research our great sport and educate themselves prior to a kite purchase. This may help to reduce the chance of words being twisted in a negative manner? Keep in mind I really know nothing about the media, this is all just my humble opinion.

Good on ya BB!!! Wish I could be there!

pyro22487 - 8-2-2012 at 02:00 PM

I have something to add. Do you know what days it will be for? If not why not try to make it for NABX tons of riders from all around the world the best doing it to the extreme. Several pilots to interview and the lakebed is already reserved fro us. Just a thought. I like the idea can't wait to see the show. Only problem is the time frame is 1 and a half months roughly. Could your friend get everything in order before then?

bison - 8-2-2012 at 02:09 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Drewculous
We dont belong to an exclusive club of better people.... Show this guy our sport... And if he slams you, that sucks, but if it gets one person involved in kiting, its worth it....


Is it??? If this show were to have another negative view of Kiting and then the Parks/BLM sees it, Do you think it helps or hurts when one applies for a permit??? Is it worth it, for ONE person to try the sport???

Quote:
The people that really want to fly, wont be bothered some bad publicity... Theyll seek out positive kiters, and people who know the sport inside and out, not news reporters...


It's not potential new kiters, it's those that issue permits and make the rules. Ask Morrie if the tape of Fritz flying full speed into the ocean, getting ejected, in addition to radical tricks HELPED or HURT the effort to open Washington Beaches? That wasn't even broadcast yet somehow the Washington Parks Dept got hold of it.

BeamerBob - 8-2-2012 at 02:12 PM

Thanks guys! Pyro, I asked about NABX timeframe and the deal is he is adding this project in while he is already here in Vegas with his crew for a Rodeo competition for another episode of the show. I think with enough early warning for dates, lots of locals and not quite local will come to add to the shoot with more activity.

shehatesmyhobbies - 8-2-2012 at 02:30 PM

Mougl, all very good comments you have added.

You are 100% right about each of us taking on some responsibility in teaching others safe kiting practices. Walking up to someone at an event or local flying field that is having a problem or getting ready to do something that looks to be very unsafe should be first nature.

The idea of suggesting a forum like PKF to those who want to learn is another great idea. There has been a large increase in new members to this forum looking for insight into kiting and which kite to buy.

Education as well as Safety is key to positive promotion of this sport.

Drewculous - 8-2-2012 at 04:24 PM

Bison, to me... Yes its worth it

Kiting has affected me in so many positive ways, it seems almost criminal to hide it away, only for a select few to enjoy. The beauty of this sport, is how it makes you feel... And no matter what, im going to fly... Kick me outta my soccer field cuz some newbie got hurt... Im going to scour the area till I find a like minded person to share my joy with, and fly with.

Its a lot like skateboarding...back in the day, they got kicked out of every park and off every street, out of every empty lot... But thank god people like tony hawk, people like bobby, people like rip, dino, angus, and all the vendors here push their love out there in the best ways possible... You push and push, and gain members, and more and more people feel the way we do... And eventually kiting is accepted... Heck, my little dinky conservative town here in nebraska has a skate park... I would do whatever I could to get a kite park here... And you should too!

Im really sorry you feel the need to protect kiting by locking it away, but I honestly believe the more people that can experience kiting the more exposure we get, the better we all become as a sport...

Right now we are new and scary, and its trendy to show off our negatives... But the more people can see our sport, the more they will ask their own questions and eventually the bigger and better we become... I want to see xgame kiting. I want to see olympic kiting. I want to see brick and mortar kite shops everywhere. I want to see 10 kites in the air over my field everytime I drive by..... I want someone in nebraska to know what a freaking traction kite is!!!

The only way to grow our sport is to promote it... And what better way than having a childhood friend shoot a tv spot for us?!?! On a national network!!! That is epic right there!


Kiting has become one of the most important things in my life... And I for one will do my best to show every single person how great it can be... You dont have to do the same, but please dont discourage others from sharing their passions with others...

Sorry for the rant and veer... But growing our sport is important, and thats what Bobby is doing and I applaud him for it. despite the remote chance of failure/backlash, he is trying........ If you aint crashing, you aint trying! (words to live by right there!)

Good winds to you all

Thanks again bobby

kiteboyza - 8-2-2012 at 04:31 PM

Ask yourself this

Is there any benefit towards the kiting world in doing this?
sadly the answer is no

I have seen this happen in the UK and every idiot with cash runs out and buys kites, you know what happens next and then some bans

Drewculous - 8-2-2012 at 04:33 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by kiteboyza
Ask yourself this

Is there any benefit towards the kiting world in doing this?
sadly the answer is no


Who introduced you to kiting?

I wonder how your life would be different if they "didnt see any benefit in showing you kiting"

Edit:

Im sorry to lash out, but this (for clarifications sake by "this" I mean this thread) has been bugging me the last couple of days and that quote (kiteboyza's remark) really bothered me... kiting as a whole benefits from positive "bobby-esq" exposure

shehatesmyhobbies - 8-2-2012 at 04:43 PM

Drew, I applaud and share your passion for this sport and educate as many children and adults alike what this sport is about. I am always welcome in any of our local schools, family days, Heck I even have the open arms of the local Aerospace education center to come to as many events they have we would like to attend. Positive outcome from positive people.

BeamerBob - 8-2-2012 at 04:47 PM

I hope that most who have met me, have some idea that I'm not really the "loose cannon" type. I feel like I do a pretty good job of keeping things in perspective and seeing how things look from another's eyes. I'm also a critical thinker and would measure every word spoken that it would come across in a positive light for our sport.

As far as growing the sport, IMHO its a good thing. It might not reduce prices of our equipment but I promise that profit dollars will be chased by research and development dollars. Companies will be increasingly eager to improve their products if the pie they want a slice of is getting bigger while they are trying in increase the size of their slice. I'm growing the sport just in my family alone by grooming 2 sons that are passionate about the sport and while it's hard to compete with an Xbox and a long list of friends they chat with and play games with on there, they never hesitate to spend a day with me when I'm headed to buggy. I share that stoke with anyone that indicates they are interested. My posting and sharing of kite related information on facebook is what prompted this opportunity to get off the ground. Anyone that carries a buggy exposed on their vehicle knows what happens when you pull into the gas station. I can't imagine telling those guys "sorry I can't talk about it, you might like it and want to do it too".

wheresthewind? - 8-2-2012 at 05:22 PM

you should use the "beaver bob" moniker though..... might endear us to environmental groups like save the snowy plover LOL......

mougl - 8-2-2012 at 05:31 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by wheresthewind?
you should use the "beaver bob" moniker though..... might endear us to environmental groups like save the snowy plover LOL......


Now THAT'S funny!!! :lol:

By the way Bob, if all goes well with the coverage (and I'm confident it will) there could be a part 2 at JIBE 2013...I'm cookin up something for that event ;-)

kiteboyza - 8-2-2012 at 05:48 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Drewculous
Quote:
Originally posted by kiteboyza
Ask yourself this

Is there any benefit towards the kiting world in doing this?
sadly the answer is no


Who introduced you to kiting?

I wonder how your life would be different if they "didnt see any benefit in showing you kiting"

Edit:

Im sorry to lash out, but this has been bugging me the last couple of days and that quote really bothered me... kiting as a whole benefits from positive "bobby-esq" exposure


I just posted it, how can it bug you for a few days? I taught myself to kite, long before kite schools and 4 line kites were invented.

Secondly, I am referring to the news article which Bob plans on doing, yes you might benefit as a kite dealer. And yes I have met Bob, he is a standup guy and would be a good ambassodor for the sport.

Thirdly, I have been in this game way longer than you think and lived through many bans caused by bad PR in kiting in the UK. If in doubt google "Lytham St Annes sandyacht fatal accident" and then go do some research how many beaches were shut down by councils. Then have a look at how long it took us to change minds of these people who shut it down. The press are a dangerous bunch, I agree with Bison.

No lashing out needed, maybe just some expierence in these matters :singing:
Oh and something else many of these kiteshops soon figured out was the saying...If there is nowhere to fly, nobody is gonna buy.

This is not a rant, merely my opinion based on some hard facts and evidence!:thumbup:

last words, maybe you should get this Fox guy to come and attend NABX?

BeamerBob - 8-2-2012 at 06:43 PM

Boyza this is a rant but understand I have a lot of respect for you and how long you have been involved in our sport.

Bryan is not a "Fox guy". He is a friend that has his own video production company that has 13 episodes on Fox "SPORTS". I capitalize because the dissenters seem to think everything that starts with "Fox" ends with "News". I've also mentioned at least twice that one of my first suggestions to Bryan about the best way to do this was for him to capture NABX. It seems to escape some that he has a prior obligation with the Easter Bunny that week. Yes, I've lost a bit of my patience repeating myself and being misquoted. Breathing deep for a bit. :embarrased:

I'll give some serious thought to the "Beaver Bob" idea :P

g00fba11 - 8-2-2012 at 07:23 PM

I have been to Bobby's house in Vegas..... and as soon as I got my GoPro out he started talking about taking his shirt off...... yup.... not the loose canon type..... just adapting to his surroundings..... :lol:

I can't imagine what BB would do with a full production crew around him.......

I will be glued to my TV set for this first episode..... sounds awesome.... I can't wait!!!!

This is awesome Bobby.......

BeamerBob - 8-2-2012 at 07:37 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by g00fba11
I have been to Bobby's house in Vegas..... and as soon as I got my GoPro out he started talking about taking his shirt off...... yup.... not the loose canon type..... just adapting to his surroundings..... :lol:

I can't imagine what BB would do with a full production crew around him.......

I will be glued to my TV set for this first episode..... sounds awesome.... I can't wait!!!!

This is awesome Bobby.......


Who invited this guy?! :rolleyes::smilegrin:

kiteboyza - 9-2-2012 at 07:21 AM

Good rant Bob, I wish you the best with your venture :D

Bladerunner - 9-2-2012 at 07:44 AM

Wow this is a great discusion . Nice to see everybody showing respect !

I know that seeing Corey Rosler ( sp ) and his kiteski on T.V. was the seed that set my passion.

It is shocking how few people I talk to have a CLUE about what a kitebuggy is or what we do.

I don't know if we need to grow the sport but I do think that if it was on T.V. many would see it for the 1st time and ?????

BeamerBob - 9-2-2012 at 08:31 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Bladerunner

I know that seeing Corey Rosler ( sp ) and his kiteski on T.V. was the seed that set my passion.

It is shocking how few people I talk to have a CLUE about what a kitebuggy is or what we do.

I don't know if we need to grow the sport but I do think that if it was on T.V. many would see it for the 1st time and ?????


Blade I think this is the part that excites me most. Not so much to bring people in (but that might happen if we do it right) but so more people "get it" when we say we fly kites. I would hope to move past the image they have of a diamond shape SL kite with a ribbon tail. You can capture much of what goes on with a go pro, but what is it going to look like with 20 of them rolling?

popeyethewelder - 9-2-2012 at 12:26 PM

I must admit my first thought was, how exciting, and who better to be in control of proceedings than Bob, I am sure Bob would have looked at every angle....thats his nature as he mentioned above.

Then when Kiteboyza remined me of what can happen, even with great possitive exposure, it can, and infact did have a huge negative impact on the UK buggy scene, he really does know what he is talking about, and is worth a re read of what he said.

Of course we all want to promote our sport, who knows, in years to come you might see kite buggy racing in the olympics, but it only takes a few people with a bit of cash to buy some gear, think they know it all and have or cause a huge accident....then like Boyza said bans will follow.

I can see the fors and I can see the againsts on this......I would be happy and excited to see the exposure, but would not be too bothered if it didnt happen either.....so if there ever was someone sitting on the fence here....its me.

Pride,sharing, fear and protection....oh, and joy!

skimtwashington - 10-2-2012 at 12:24 AM

Access is the most important issue and the common denominator of what the pro and con parties-and those mixed- have made as the essence of this thread.

But originally this thread started as a fun exciting announcement. It was simply an emotional one that is about the excitement of seeing the sport on TV in a national forum. It is one of pride, fun and sharing outside of the current members.

We can -and already do - make and see our own films(and good ones w/latest technology) or write some great Blogs within these forums which -as enthusiasts of the sport-enjoy more than any non-flyer would. And we have control over over our own content.

Some think that exposure outside our community to a more general public( typically viewers of such a program would often be other 'adventurers'- but you'll get a little of everyone) may increase access...improve safety....etc.

But then FEAR(all right...call it concern) comes in -as others think it may deny access...especially if any negative aspects come to public light. Recent posts state this happened in the UK.

Then can we ask more directly, what is the best way to KEEP access that exists and OPEN NEW ACCESS? ]

That may involve reaching out and exposing our sport more to the non-kiting public....or at least, to those that would set the regulations of land and water use.

Sure you can use an area where no regulations against it exists. You don't have to reach out to anyone. But if they ban kiters suddenly from that area....you may need to reach out to get it back. Or if an area bans all sports or all vehicles...reaching out may open it up to this specific activity
Those you need to reach are town officials but also the general public who will get in touch with those officials-either negatively(complain) or positively to effect policy.


A beach community with an off season may indeed give access and promote a Power Kiting festival if it fills some hotels, brings in tourist money, and creates a buzz and something to promote on their 'Visit our city brochure'

Sound like Wildwood?!

But really we are talking more of regular year round access where it doesn't impede or compete with limited space.


This is an important discussion...but really we hijacked a fun announcement of a kite buggy show on fox..

Bob, did you have any Idea when you posted this of such a large and serious response? You've already helped bring an important positive discussion to the table!



.........Annnddddd Cut! :smug::roll::roll::roll::roll::roll:

BeamerBob - 10-2-2012 at 09:08 AM

Skimt I figured this thread would have 5 or 6 replies like "cool, let us know when its on" and "who is going to be in it?" Here we are with 49 replies and almost 1200 views, so this is larger than I imagined. Very valid points on both sides of the fence followed. I'm on the side of "do things to make it better" so I lean towards going for it to maybe remove some of the fear and ignorance of our sport that does cause bans. I dealt with that at Fort Clinch State Park in Florida. There is a lengthy thread on here about it, but basically he denied us access to buggy on park beaches in part because of a lack of information. He found an Australian web site speaking of "70 mph and no brakes" and also found mention of required insurance and he was done.

wheresthewind? - 10-2-2012 at 09:57 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by BeamerBob
Quote:
Originally posted by Bladerunner

I know that seeing Corey Rosler ( sp ) and his kiteski on T.V. was the seed that set my passion.

It is shocking how few people I talk to have a CLUE about what a kitebuggy is or what we do.

I don't know if we need to grow the sport but I do think that if it was on T.V. many would see it for the 1st time and ?????
how dare u disrespect the diamond kite!!


Blade I think this is the part that excites me most. Not so much to bring people in (but that might happen if we do it right) but so more people "get it" when we say we fly kites. I would hope to move past the image they have of a diamond shape SL kite with a ribbon tail. You can capture much of what goes on with a go pro, but what is it going to look like with 20 of them rolling?

nocando - 27-2-2012 at 12:26 AM

WORD Bob go for it

BeamerBob - 27-4-2012 at 11:41 AM

Ok, just got word that the film (that's an old term isn't it) session will be on May 12th at Ivanpah. Not sure of times of day yet but I assume we would make the most of it. My buddy has said the more the merrier and all skill levels. We don't know what the wind might be but we usually have good wind that time of year I understand. I hope this is enough notice to get some of you guys that are farther away to be able to make it. It will probably be warm but not scorching summer hot.

They will bring lots of cameras so get hooked up!

mougl - 27-4-2012 at 11:56 AM

I wish I could be there!

popeyethewelder - 27-4-2012 at 01:15 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by BeamerBob
I hope this enough notice to get some of you guys that are farther away to be able to make it.


Cheers Bob...

awindofchange - 27-4-2012 at 04:05 PM

I'm in Bob....let me know the details and we can make it happen. :)

Donaldgould - 27-4-2012 at 08:53 PM

Would like to say I could make it but that's mothers day weekend so I cant

soliver - 29-4-2012 at 07:03 PM

Bob, have they given you any indication on when the show might air?

I know it is yet to have been filmed, but are they thinking later this summer, fall,... have they given you any clue yet?

Wish I could be there, but Ivanpah is pretty far away from A-town!

BeamerBob - 29-4-2012 at 07:05 PM

His series runs October to january IIRC. Each episode runs 3 times it seems as well. Wish all of us could be there to give the show the most energy.

thanson2001ok - 29-4-2012 at 07:32 PM

Wish I could be there!

Perfect excuse to get back to Ivanpah..."Honey, they are shooting a TV show and I really need to be there."

BeamerBob - 29-4-2012 at 07:56 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by thanson2001ok
Wish I could be there!

Perfect excuse to get back to Ivanpah..."Honey, they are shooting a TV show and I really need to be there."


Todd, just use the phrase "Honey they said they NEED me there". Wish you and G00f could make it.

thanson2001ok - 29-4-2012 at 08:02 PM

Goof... Your wing gonna be good enough for this?

Beaudryjoel - 29-4-2012 at 08:31 PM

Great thread- HUGE passion from everyone.

My 2 cents:
Everyone has an opinion- This thread proves that. Whether the producer spins this in a positive or negative light doesn't matter.
Fact is there will be a portion of the un informed population who will naively dismiss what we do as ridiculous, evil and down right dangerous.
These people will feel the need to "protect" society from this sport and go to lengths to do so. There will be bans and regulations (there always are on unregulated sports) set in place because of those people "with more cash than brains" out there getting them selves hurt if not killed.

I'm new to the sport- perhaps i have no right to state my opinion amongst you guys with such experience and seniority, but Drew's earlier post
struck a strong cord with me-
This sport was presented to me during a time in my life that "FIT" for many different reasons. It has become a passion that i will defend and i truly believe that there will be a valuable portion of the population that will find this sport as important as we do.

Good Luck with the shoot Bobby!
Sounds like it'll be an awesome outing. wish i could be there to support and possibly ride a couple true speed buggies.

g00fba11 - 30-4-2012 at 07:41 PM

Time to find an excuse to come to Vegas to "work" again......

I can sneeze without pain!!!

Getting ready to test the shoulder very soon now......

awindofchange - 30-4-2012 at 11:18 PM

Glad to hear goof! Been thinking bout ya! You are always welcome, even if you just want to hang out with us.

BeamerBob - 9-5-2012 at 03:35 PM

Just a reminder about the shoot this Saturday. I plan to get there mid to late morning. Most good winds are in the afternoon. I hope a bunch of us can make it.

g00fba11 - 9-5-2012 at 05:37 PM

@Kent....thanks....whenever I am in Vegas you and BB can count on me stopping by to say hi....

I asked my wonderful wife if I could use the last of my FQF miles and come down for this...... her answer......"are you crazy"

I didn't take it any farther.....I just dropped it.....I still got my gear....I figured I better not push it.....live to fly another day....:lol:

Wolfpaklv - 9-5-2012 at 05:52 PM

I'm excited for this. I will be there.

Maybe I can offer some incite since I work in the industry. This guy is running a production company. He does not work for FOX. His show airs on FOX and that's as far as it goes. Here is how a show gets picked up. You film a pilot with a budget you either get from an investor or from your own savings account. Then after filming and editing the pilot, which is usually 1 or 2 episodes, you submit it to a bunch of networks that you think may want to buy it. Once someone has purchased your show, like Fox purchased this show, they give you a budget to shoot 1 season. One season is usually 6 to 12 episodes, but varies. Then you take your budget back to your production company, organize a crew or use the same crew from your pilot, and go shoot the season. If they like the show, then they will continue this process until ratings drop so much that it costs more to produce than they make from airing it.

So although some of you may have been burned by show that aired on Fox or any other organization, you cant put them all in the same boat. At the end of the day, they are coming out to document what is happening and to tell a story. So don't come out and do something daring where you may get hurt unless you are prepared to share it with the world. Cause at the end of the day you don't get to choose what airs or what makes good tv. As I said, they come out to tell the story. And if the story is you came out had some good sessions and then got hurt. Well they are going to tell that story. Now on the other side of the coin if you go out, give it your all, and no one ever gets hurt. Than the focus will be on the fun that was had. Its up to you. Now even if this was for FOX news and they did twist the story where they didn't show any of the fun and only showed the injury, who's fault is it really, theirs? I don't think so. You control your own destiny. That's the facts and I hope you all agree.

We should be applauding Bob's efforts to grow the community. Not ranting and raving about how we disagree. And if that brings more people into the sport great. We will have more people to ride with. And the kite stores will be happy as business will be better than ever. Just make sure the first thing you teach a newbee is "Just Let Go!!!". The price of replacing a kite is far cheaper than replacing you neck or back if you break it. And that's something I know we can all agree on. So get out there and have fun, be safe, and relax. That's what I do!

bigkid - 9-5-2012 at 06:09 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by g00fba11
I asked my wonderful wife if I could use the last of my FQF miles and come down for this...... her answer......"are you crazy"

I didn't take it any farther.....I just dropped it.....I still got my gear....I figured I better not push it.....live to fly another day....:lol:

GOOD FOR HER, your a smart man.:thumbup: you make me laugh.

BeamerBob - 9-5-2012 at 06:12 PM

I always use "live to kite another day" in a different way but this makes complete sense too.

Brian thanks for the clarification. Your info sounds exactly like what my friend says. He has 12 episodes on Fox Sports. Plan on freestyle with the winds we are forcast. Calling for 5-10 but hot so hoping the heat kicks it up a notch.

mougl - 9-5-2012 at 06:31 PM

The closer this gets, the more excited I am for this opportunity for kiting! Glad to hear Brian will be there. Thanks for jumping on this BB :)

popeyethewelder - 11-5-2012 at 08:55 AM

There should be a couple of good friends of mine there at the time RedSky aka Tom and Cliff...they missed nabx, but could not bear to wait a whole year so arrived yesterday, have fun

BeamerBob - 11-5-2012 at 03:42 PM

Fox sports shoot is canceled due to time overruns on a previous job the film crew is working on in Arizona. The idea is still alive but we don't know when we will try again. Thanks to those that were going to come out. I'll post up if we see an opportunity in the future.

Drewculous - 11-5-2012 at 03:55 PM

aw suck!

Too bad