Being a big kid at heart (and engineer at mind) the thing I look forward to most other than opening gifts is putting things together that need assembly. The bigger and more difficult a project the better!
This year we got a new barbeque grill. Yes, my eyes were all a glow with the anticipation of conquering yet another construction project. It's time to build!
Step one, open box. My eyes widened and my pulse quickened as I glared into the sea of styrofoam and cardboard packaging. Step two, take out contents and find nuts and bolts.
Step 3, start with assembly of grill cabinet. Er, what? The wheels are already attached on the bottom? After bolting the 3 sides to the base I was done with this part. Well that was easy! My pulse slowed and pupils went back to normal. Huh! Okay then the top grill part should be fun, right? The top and bottom of the main grill section was already together but packed full of boxes and more styrofoam. Yeah! This looks good! Pulse quickens again... at least until I take out the boxes and find that the burners are already in place, and the boxes only contained the grates and shelves that go in pre-slotted spots. Even the knobs are already attached for crying out loud! Time to clean the grates. Game over.
The last grill had required hooking up dangerous gas lines, installing the burners, and assembling and attaching the regulators! They are apparently making barbeque grill assembly stupid proof these days, leaving absolutely no challenge for me. I have effectively been robbed this holiday.
I sincerely hope the rest of you out there have had a wonderful holiday. Cheers!
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Rocket Bag Makes Pez's Holiday List
Pez Cycling News is a daily visit of mine. Okay, so it's a bit "roadie" for most tri-geeks, but seeing that I'm more road-geek than tri-geek it's acceptable for me. Besides, our product designer is enough tri-geek for the whole company. And yes, for those who know and love him, that would be Marcin.
Besides, I have a good excuse for not running, I get terrible shin splints. Swimming is a different story. I have no excuse not to swim except that it's too simple for me to participate in. What I mean to say is that there aren't many cool technical gadgets to use while swimming unless you are scuba diving. Now that I have done and love to do. If I'm going to have to go through all the steps of driving somehwere, changing, getting wet, drying off, showering and then gettting dressed again their had better be a lot of cool tech gadgets involved!
Cheers!
Besides, I have a good excuse for not running, I get terrible shin splints. Swimming is a different story. I have no excuse not to swim except that it's too simple for me to participate in. What I mean to say is that there aren't many cool technical gadgets to use while swimming unless you are scuba diving. Now that I have done and love to do. If I'm going to have to go through all the steps of driving somehwere, changing, getting wet, drying off, showering and then gettting dressed again their had better be a lot of cool tech gadgets involved!
Cheers!
Monday, December 10, 2007
Rocket Science Sports Chooses Limestone Based Neoprene For Wetsuit Designs.
Rocket Science Sports' research and development doesn't just stop at making things measurably faster or lighter, but greener as well. For those not keeping tabs on the latest hip talk, I mean ecologically friendly.
Rubber (neoprene) is typically made of a petrochemical base. The neoprene used in our wetsuits is made of a limestone base which is 99.7% calcium carbonate! This means it is much safer for the environment once it's been discarded. As well, manufacturing and processing of the neoprene done with hydroelectric power, and the waste heat is used for eel farming. Yum yum!
We believe that while we strive for the stars with our technology and performance, there is no reason to forget about taking care of the earth beneath our feet. Rocket Science Sports stands by this commitment.
Cheers!
The RSS Family
Rubber (neoprene) is typically made of a petrochemical base. The neoprene used in our wetsuits is made of a limestone base which is 99.7% calcium carbonate! This means it is much safer for the environment once it's been discarded. As well, manufacturing and processing of the neoprene done with hydroelectric power, and the waste heat is used for eel farming. Yum yum!
We believe that while we strive for the stars with our technology and performance, there is no reason to forget about taking care of the earth beneath our feet. Rocket Science Sports stands by this commitment.
Cheers!
The RSS Family
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Competitor's Bags
Proof positive that some of our competitors just don't get it when it comes to bag design...
My buddy David Walker from VeloNews
My buddy David Walker from VeloNews Friday, November 30, 2007
Rocket Bag
Sneak peak of our new Rocket Bag which will be in stores by this Holiday!
(The Rocket Bag is the same size as our Elite Bag)
(The Rocket Bag is the same size as our Elite Bag)
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Swim Skin Contraversy
Introduced at this year's Interbike Show, cycling's version of the Detroit Auto Show, a few wetsuit manufacturers including ourselves unveiled a new category of garment specifically designed for use in events that will not allow the use of wetsuits. This happens when the water temperature is too warm (78degrees for pros, 84 for age groupers) for using the wetsuits because overheating becomes a concern.
Skinsuits were designed as a lighter, thinner covering which still gives the benefit of having a slick surface for less drag, but without the insulation properties of the neoprene in wetsuits. In order to keep all things reasonably fair and even there has to be rules for what is considered a skinsuit. First and foremost is buoyancy. Skinsuits are not allowed to have any. One company has designed a fabric that has a special coating which is used for drag reduction, but has no buoyancy.
So how does USAT address the legality of what can and can't be used? Triathlon's test for legality is to place 61 grams of weight on a suit, wrung free of air, and placed a foot or two under the water's surface. If the suit sinks it's legal, otherwise it's not.
Unfortunately this is not a very scientific method of testing which can leave a lot of factors left for error. For instance, there is no way of telling how much if any air is still trapped in the garment which could affect it's buoyancy.
Marcin Sochacki, founder of Rocket Science Sports, aerospace engineer and triathlete has a better method for testing, using actual mathmatical calculations to figure the buoyancy of a material. By calculating the weight of a mass and the amount of space the mass takes up it is easy to find if it is going to be buoyant or not. Conceivably this method could be used for approving specific types of materials used by manufacturers for the construction of a skinsuit. Marcin has spoken with USAT's Commissioner of Officials Charlie Crawford about this method and it seems to be under advisement.
We hope to gain support from the rest of the triathlon community in this endeavor. You can voice your concern or support to USAT directly if you wish.
Cheers!
Skinsuits were designed as a lighter, thinner covering which still gives the benefit of having a slick surface for less drag, but without the insulation properties of the neoprene in wetsuits. In order to keep all things reasonably fair and even there has to be rules for what is considered a skinsuit. First and foremost is buoyancy. Skinsuits are not allowed to have any. One company has designed a fabric that has a special coating which is used for drag reduction, but has no buoyancy.
So how does USAT address the legality of what can and can't be used? Triathlon's test for legality is to place 61 grams of weight on a suit, wrung free of air, and placed a foot or two under the water's surface. If the suit sinks it's legal, otherwise it's not.
Unfortunately this is not a very scientific method of testing which can leave a lot of factors left for error. For instance, there is no way of telling how much if any air is still trapped in the garment which could affect it's buoyancy.
Marcin Sochacki, founder of Rocket Science Sports, aerospace engineer and triathlete has a better method for testing, using actual mathmatical calculations to figure the buoyancy of a material. By calculating the weight of a mass and the amount of space the mass takes up it is easy to find if it is going to be buoyant or not. Conceivably this method could be used for approving specific types of materials used by manufacturers for the construction of a skinsuit. Marcin has spoken with USAT's Commissioner of Officials Charlie Crawford about this method and it seems to be under advisement.
We hope to gain support from the rest of the triathlon community in this endeavor. You can voice your concern or support to USAT directly if you wish.
Cheers!
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Manufacturing.
So it's been a while since I last did a real post. Please forgive me. It's been a crazy few months with all the travelling, ending with Interbike at the end of September. The last couple of weeks have been dig out and follow-up time. Pre-season sales are being closed and new dealers around the country are being brought on board. What a great time for us!
Among other things Marcin is getting ready to leave next week to move his family to China. Yes, I said China! He will be back in a couple weeks for a short time but then will return to live there for a year or two. This is for a couple reasons. One is that we have a small office there and a full time production manager who is working dialy with our assembly plants. The other reasons are to personally oversee manufacturing of our newest high tech products and to hire and train a larger staff to help develop our manufacturing capabilities and quality control.
Just to clarify, we do not have anything made in China. All of our components are made in places like Italy, Australia, Japan, Israel, and imported to China for assembly. The reason we do this is to maximize the quality of the components we buy or have designed for us while keeping the end cost reasonable.
For those concerned with work ethics in in the factories we use, let it be known that Marcin surprise inspects each perspective factory to make sure no unethical treatment is present and to make sure that the atmosphere is conducive to employee happiness and good workmanship. The factories must also be willing to learn quality assurance practices and update equipment needed to keep up with Rocket Science Sport's technological advancements.
I believe we go well beyond designing and having products manufactured for us. In order to guarantee the best product we need to personally learn and be a part of all levels of the process. Marcin's commitment to the the quality and consistancy of our products I can assuradly say is unmatched in the industry. His tireless effort and attention to not only the details of the product, but to the process of design and production will surely be the root of Rocket Science Sports ultimate success as a business, and the advancements of technology in the industry.
Cheers!
Among other things Marcin is getting ready to leave next week to move his family to China. Yes, I said China! He will be back in a couple weeks for a short time but then will return to live there for a year or two. This is for a couple reasons. One is that we have a small office there and a full time production manager who is working dialy with our assembly plants. The other reasons are to personally oversee manufacturing of our newest high tech products and to hire and train a larger staff to help develop our manufacturing capabilities and quality control.
Just to clarify, we do not have anything made in China. All of our components are made in places like Italy, Australia, Japan, Israel, and imported to China for assembly. The reason we do this is to maximize the quality of the components we buy or have designed for us while keeping the end cost reasonable.
For those concerned with work ethics in in the factories we use, let it be known that Marcin surprise inspects each perspective factory to make sure no unethical treatment is present and to make sure that the atmosphere is conducive to employee happiness and good workmanship. The factories must also be willing to learn quality assurance practices and update equipment needed to keep up with Rocket Science Sport's technological advancements.
I believe we go well beyond designing and having products manufactured for us. In order to guarantee the best product we need to personally learn and be a part of all levels of the process. Marcin's commitment to the the quality and consistancy of our products I can assuradly say is unmatched in the industry. His tireless effort and attention to not only the details of the product, but to the process of design and production will surely be the root of Rocket Science Sports ultimate success as a business, and the advancements of technology in the industry.
Cheers!
Friday, September 14, 2007
Rocket Bottle
Aero Bars: Check
Aero Wheels: Check
Aero Helmet: Check
Rocket Bottle: ?
How much would you spend to reduce drag by 16%*?
It's a no-brainer.
*Compared to similar sized non-dimpled bottle. Tests conducted at
University of A&M low speed wind tunnel.
Designed and tested by Marcin Sochacki, founder and CEO of Rocket Science Sports.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Elite Bag Review
Last year we had our elite bag reviewed by BeginnerTriathlete.com and scored a near perfect 4.75 out of 5. Not being happy enough with that, Marcin went back to the drawing board and made a few tweaks to the bag. This year we re-submitted the "new" elite for another take.
I'm proud to say that we now officially make the best of the best with a 5 of 5 rating! But hold on now, this isn't just for triathletes anymore. Take a look! Anyone can make use of this bag for many different purposes. We have also just announced sponsorship of pro road cycling team AEG-Toshiba-JetNetwork. Ask them! Tri bag or not, this thing rocks for roadies, MTBrs, business people, motocross, photographers etc.
Check out the complete review at BeginnerTriathlete.com
I'm proud to say that we now officially make the best of the best with a 5 of 5 rating! But hold on now, this isn't just for triathletes anymore. Take a look! Anyone can make use of this bag for many different purposes. We have also just announced sponsorship of pro road cycling team AEG-Toshiba-JetNetwork. Ask them! Tri bag or not, this thing rocks for roadies, MTBrs, business people, motocross, photographers etc.
Check out the complete review at BeginnerTriathlete.com
Rocket Science Sports Sponsors AEG-Toshiba-JetNetwork
Rocket Science Sports Announces partnership with AEG-TOSHIBA-JetNetwork
Austin, Texas, Sept 1, 2007 - Rocket Science Sports is proud to announce a new partnership with the AEG-TOSHIBA-JetNetwork Pro Cycling Team, marking its expansion into the cycling industry. According to the agreement, the AEG-TOSHIBA-JetNetwork Pro Cycling Team will use Rocket Science Sports' Elite backpacks for gear transportation and Rocket Bottles for use on their bikes in time trial events. On the heels of Rocket Science Sports' record growth this year and record wins including Keith Norris’ U23 Criterium National Championship, the alliance comes at an exciting time for both groups.
Darren Zielinski, VP of Sales and Marketing for Rocket Science Sports, said: "I am happy to support Ravi Rajcoomar and his management team at Swagger and the amazing squad he's assembled. We are looking forward to a very successful season. I believe that the culmination of our company’s knowledge of engineering and the team’s input for practical applications will ultimately pay off for us both.”
Austin, Texas, Sept 1, 2007 - Rocket Science Sports is proud to announce a new partnership with the AEG-TOSHIBA-JetNetwork Pro Cycling Team, marking its expansion into the cycling industry. According to the agreement, the AEG-TOSHIBA-JetNetwork Pro Cycling Team will use Rocket Science Sports' Elite backpacks for gear transportation and Rocket Bottles for use on their bikes in time trial events. On the heels of Rocket Science Sports' record growth this year and record wins including Keith Norris’ U23 Criterium National Championship, the alliance comes at an exciting time for both groups.
Darren Zielinski, VP of Sales and Marketing for Rocket Science Sports, said: "I am happy to support Ravi Rajcoomar and his management team at Swagger and the amazing squad he's assembled. We are looking forward to a very successful season. I believe that the culmination of our company’s knowledge of engineering and the team’s input for practical applications will ultimately pay off for us both.”
Friday, August 31, 2007
Travel Travel Travel
Well, I've been on the road quite a bit lately. I started off with flying to Florida and driving from city to city all over the state for a whole week. I got a lot accomplished, met with many dealers, made new friends and drove straight past many wonderful places I have only dreamed of visiting. I think that was the most painful part of the whole trip. Disney World, Dinosaur World, Busch Gardens, numerous museums, Daytona Beach (okay, I stopped for a quick peek), and many other places too many to mention. At least I know where everything is now, right?
Needless to say we now have a lot more exposure for our brand in Florida. I'm glad I made the trip. One thing I noticed about Floridians is that for the most part, everyone was so friendly. That includes when they are on the road. My hypothesis is that this is due to the "common disaster" syndrome. This is the syndrome where people who share the experience of a major disaster grow tightly together and sweating the little things isn't such a big deal. I guess after you've been through a few devastating hurricanes everything else is gravy.
So after Florida I spent a very short weekend with my family and then Marcin and I drove from Austin to Madison Wisconsin. From there we visited dealers and worked our way down to Chicago in time to set up a booth at the Chicago Triathlon. We picked up several new dealers on this trip of which two bought product from us to sell at the expo. This turned out well for everyone. We did not have to drive back with much stuff after the event and they learned how well our products sell!
Timing is everthing. When we reached the Chicago Hilton (where the expo was held) we unloaded our trialer in the loading area. No sooner did we get our stuff off the sidewalk and into the building did a major storm packing winds of up to 80 mph hit the windy city. That was close! I feel bad for those who were in the middle of unloading at that time. BTW, did you know that Chicago is not necessarily known as the windy city because of the wind? If you are at all interested in the history of this, you can read about it here.
I took Marcin to a Polish restaraunt my family goes to when in Chicago to help him get a little taste of home. The While Eagle is the biggest place you have ever seen! They have a huge banquet hall for weddings and other big Polish family events (I've only been there for family gatherings after funerals) as my relatives are all buried across the street. Don't let that turn you off though. The desserts are wonderful and the plates are bountiful! When we had our food brought to us we thought they had the wrong table. The amount of food we got was clearly enough for 4-5 people. Needless to say, we did our best and then rolled ourselves out the door and to the nearest hotel for some serious full belly snooze time.
So now we have a week rest (yeah, right!) in Austin, attend the Austin Triathlon on the weekend of September 2nd, and then Marcin leaves to visit our factories overseas one more time before Interbike the following Tuesday. Eunice will leave on Thursday to set up at the Ironman Wisconsin that Thursday and I will leave Friday for the L.A. Triathlon. Looks like I'll be spending the following week travelling California and meeting dealers, celebrating my birthday (Wednesday, Sept. 12th) and then possible setting up at the Malibu Triathlon that next weekend.
That should pretty much do it for travels this year...not! We have Interbike to attend at the end of September and then a couple of events in October including the U.S. Open Triathlon in Dallas
and then possibly the Escape from Bermuda Triathlon.
Cheers!
Needless to say we now have a lot more exposure for our brand in Florida. I'm glad I made the trip. One thing I noticed about Floridians is that for the most part, everyone was so friendly. That includes when they are on the road. My hypothesis is that this is due to the "common disaster" syndrome. This is the syndrome where people who share the experience of a major disaster grow tightly together and sweating the little things isn't such a big deal. I guess after you've been through a few devastating hurricanes everything else is gravy.
So after Florida I spent a very short weekend with my family and then Marcin and I drove from Austin to Madison Wisconsin. From there we visited dealers and worked our way down to Chicago in time to set up a booth at the Chicago Triathlon. We picked up several new dealers on this trip of which two bought product from us to sell at the expo. This turned out well for everyone. We did not have to drive back with much stuff after the event and they learned how well our products sell!
Timing is everthing. When we reached the Chicago Hilton (where the expo was held) we unloaded our trialer in the loading area. No sooner did we get our stuff off the sidewalk and into the building did a major storm packing winds of up to 80 mph hit the windy city. That was close! I feel bad for those who were in the middle of unloading at that time. BTW, did you know that Chicago is not necessarily known as the windy city because of the wind? If you are at all interested in the history of this, you can read about it here.
I took Marcin to a Polish restaraunt my family goes to when in Chicago to help him get a little taste of home. The While Eagle is the biggest place you have ever seen! They have a huge banquet hall for weddings and other big Polish family events (I've only been there for family gatherings after funerals) as my relatives are all buried across the street. Don't let that turn you off though. The desserts are wonderful and the plates are bountiful! When we had our food brought to us we thought they had the wrong table. The amount of food we got was clearly enough for 4-5 people. Needless to say, we did our best and then rolled ourselves out the door and to the nearest hotel for some serious full belly snooze time.
So now we have a week rest (yeah, right!) in Austin, attend the Austin Triathlon on the weekend of September 2nd, and then Marcin leaves to visit our factories overseas one more time before Interbike the following Tuesday. Eunice will leave on Thursday to set up at the Ironman Wisconsin that Thursday and I will leave Friday for the L.A. Triathlon. Looks like I'll be spending the following week travelling California and meeting dealers, celebrating my birthday (Wednesday, Sept. 12th) and then possible setting up at the Malibu Triathlon that next weekend.
That should pretty much do it for travels this year...not! We have Interbike to attend at the end of September and then a couple of events in October including the U.S. Open Triathlon in Dallas
and then possibly the Escape from Bermuda Triathlon.
Cheers!
Thursday, August 9, 2007
Competitor Texas Voting
James Bonney before winning the 2007 IMAZ swim. It's that time again kids! It's time to vote for your favorite Texas athletes, sports stores, races, coaches and more. One of the categories is Clifbar Male Swimmer of the Year. My vote is for James Bonney. After all, he's one of the fastest swimmers in the triathlon world! Won't you please join me in voting for him?
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Boulder Peak Tri
It's been just over a week since Marcin and I returned from the Boulder Peak Tri in Colorado. Man, what an event! Despite the location and awesome scenery the weather was a bit warm. It's okay though, it was a dry heat. Marcin and I are used to 95-100 degrees with 80-100% humidity here in Austin so we weren't as beat down as many of the locals.
We set up with Nick from our first dealer in the area to pick us up, 3xFast. Nick's a great guy with a relatively new store in Loveland and a huge passion for triathlons. Suprisingly there are very few stores that carry much triathlon gear, that is for the popularity of this sport in Colorado. Needless to say our brand and products hit the rocky mountain high! We sold tons of product and made a bunch of new friends (and a few dealers). Tim at Colorado Multisport in Boulder is picking up some of our products too. He tried out our Rocket Wetsuit and loved it so much he wanted to use it again the next day for the race!
We also met some people from Inside Inc. who write for Inside Triathlon Magazine. Blake Ottersberg, Lars Finanger and Tech Editor Jimmy Archer came by our booth and really made us feel welcome. Jimmy is looking forward to testing out our Rocket Wetsuit personally. It's coming as soon as possible Jimmy!
Our buddy Sean Lambert from Rol Wheels was kind enough to host our visit, give us a bike tour of the amazing bike route around and through the city of Denver, and most importantly of all, give us access to watch the Tour de France on the tele! Thanks a bunch Sean! You are a gentleman and a scholar. Oh, and you also make one hell of a product. Yes, I ride the Rol SL wheelset. I have for about a year and they are absolutely fantastic! Fast, light AND strong!
Our visit to Colorado would not have been complete without making it by the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs. Above is a picture of their swim training facility. We may just have a new product for them soon. Hmmm, did I say too much? I hope I don't get sacked for that. Actually, you'll never guess. Just stay tuned.Cheers!
Friday, July 13, 2007
Getting Green
As mankind continues to expand their knowledge of the world we live in, we learn that many of the products that we thought were safe to use are now found to be hazardous to either us, the environment, or both.
Methyl Ethyl Ketone Formaldehyde (MEKF) is a cancer producing agent that is present in many types of adhesives and resins. Many wetsuits are made using this chemical, especially on the lower end. I won't name names but be assured that no current wetsuits made by Rocket Science Sports contain this chemical.
One of Rocket Science Sports' primary goals other than to make the most technically advanced products is to make the safest and most eco friendly products on the market today.
Happy, healthy racing to you! Cheers!
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Behold! Stunning Product Reviews!
Yesterday, TriGearReview.com posted a review of our Elite wetsuit, RJ bag, and our timing chip strap.
Now I want you all to understand that reviews come in a couple flavors. First is the review that you pay someone a fee for. Obviously the trend in these types of reviews are a bit skewed, seeing that if the company wants to continue being paid for reviews, they'd better give everyone that pays them sparkling remarks. These types of reviews can be spotted over time, as they seem never to have much of anything bad to say about any product.
So what we do is purposely stay away from "fee" reviews because we understand that the quality of our product is best compared in free reviews where the reviewer is under no obligation to say something is great even if it may be a hunk 'o poo. These review can be spotted by the occasional and even frequent pokes or outright slams of products. Still, you have to also be aware that if slams and pokes are not too prominent, then the reviewer could just be a George Foreman type of person (from American Inventor) who cannot seem to say "no, bad!" to anything.
For our most recent "unbias" review go to TriGearReview. Cheers!
Now I want you all to understand that reviews come in a couple flavors. First is the review that you pay someone a fee for. Obviously the trend in these types of reviews are a bit skewed, seeing that if the company wants to continue being paid for reviews, they'd better give everyone that pays them sparkling remarks. These types of reviews can be spotted over time, as they seem never to have much of anything bad to say about any product.
So what we do is purposely stay away from "fee" reviews because we understand that the quality of our product is best compared in free reviews where the reviewer is under no obligation to say something is great even if it may be a hunk 'o poo. These review can be spotted by the occasional and even frequent pokes or outright slams of products. Still, you have to also be aware that if slams and pokes are not too prominent, then the reviewer could just be a George Foreman type of person (from American Inventor) who cannot seem to say "no, bad!" to anything.
For our most recent "unbias" review go to TriGearReview. Cheers!
Friday, July 6, 2007
What's going on?
Alright, I know I've been a bit quiet, but it's only the calm before the storm.
As I type, Marcin is hard at work overseas developing some really cool stuff. All I can say is it has to do with our Rocket Race Suit, Rocket Bottles, Rocket Bag, and a version of our Rocket Wetsuit. Yes, I said "version". Do I have your attention? Gee, I wish I could elaborate!
So, along with that Marcin is scouting out and setting in place backup factories just in case of, well, just in case. I think it's prudent for us to have a backup plan, don't you?
More news to come soon, hopefully about some sponsorships, a super secret product which will turn the industry on it's ear, and maybe even world peace! Okay, maybe not world peace, but I can dream, right?
Until then here is a list of events we are going to attend this year...
Boulder Peak Triathlon 7/22/2007
Chicago Triathlon 8/24/2026
Austin Triathlon 9/3/2007
LA Triathlon 9/9/2007
Malibu Triathlon 9/16/2007 tentative
Redman Triathlon 9/22/2007
Interbike 9/26/2007
US Open Tri Championship Dallas 10/14/2007 tentative
TriOneOOne Championship Houston 11/11/2007 tentative
Bermuda Triathlon 11/18/2007
Cheers!
As I type, Marcin is hard at work overseas developing some really cool stuff. All I can say is it has to do with our Rocket Race Suit, Rocket Bottles, Rocket Bag, and a version of our Rocket Wetsuit. Yes, I said "version". Do I have your attention? Gee, I wish I could elaborate!
So, along with that Marcin is scouting out and setting in place backup factories just in case of, well, just in case. I think it's prudent for us to have a backup plan, don't you?
More news to come soon, hopefully about some sponsorships, a super secret product which will turn the industry on it's ear, and maybe even world peace! Okay, maybe not world peace, but I can dream, right?
Until then here is a list of events we are going to attend this year...
Boulder Peak Triathlon 7/22/2007
Chicago Triathlon 8/24/2026
Austin Triathlon 9/3/2007
LA Triathlon 9/9/2007
Malibu Triathlon 9/16/2007 tentative
Redman Triathlon 9/22/2007
Interbike 9/26/2007
US Open Tri Championship Dallas 10/14/2007 tentative
TriOneOOne Championship Houston 11/11/2007 tentative
Bermuda Triathlon 11/18/2007
Cheers!
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
AT&T Austin Downtown Crit
This past weekend we had one of my favorite local events take place. The AT&T Austin Downtown Criterium unfolded on Saturday, June 16th with many pro's from around the country flying in to race our bumpy downtown streets.
Among those were some of my buds from Abercrombie & Fitch who I was able to attend a training camp with in the spring of '06. Mark Hekman who is leading in the US Crit Series points was joined by Rich Harper who was looking sleeker than ever after losing his fro. Brandon Gavic who is new to the team was also there proving his worth as he worked plenty to help Hekman retain his lead in the points, even after crashing on the 2nd lap of the race.
Hekman recognized as series leader
Rich Harper and Mark Hekman strike a pose with local fans
I set up a booth at this race to see exactly how our "triathlete designed" bags would be received by the genuinely "roadie" crowd. I'm happy to say that we scored big! Really, I didn't have any doubt but Marcin, as humble as he is, was not sure they would be so accepted. Not only were they accepted, I was asked by a very familiar pro team executive director to consider sponsoring his team with our bags and water bottles!
Jen McRae won the women's pro race. Her daughter Henna in matching kit is my son's officially unofficial girlfriend. She regularly beats my son Niko in the kid's race on Thursday nights. Niko didn't race the kids race downtown due to recovering from walking pneumonia. He was bummed of course, but I did get to take him around the course between races later in the day on his new bike that I got through my friend at Masi/Haro, Tim Jackson.
These wonderful pictures are by local photographer Rick Kent. Thank you Rick!
Cheers!
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Danskin Dilemma
This past weekend Marcin and I were given the opportunity to show and sell our products through Austin's Bicycle Sport Shop at the Danskin Triathlon. Instead of the expo, we were set up next to their mechanics in the transition area in the 10x10 retail tent.
It wasn't long before the women started showing up in droves to rack their bikes. As they came in, we got a lot of attention simply because we had the only tents in the transition area and most of the women wanted to have a final check done on their bikes. Having not worked next to the mechanics in a transition area the day before the race prior to that day, I was surprised to find that most competitors were unprepared for the race. Many had no means of hydration either, not owning a water bottle or cage to put it in. Many others needed bar end plugs which BSS happily supplied.
Things quickly turned from us showing our product to helping out the ever growing line of women heading to the mechanics with simple things. Things like putting air back in their tires after someone at the expo was telling them all to let the air out "because the tires would pop from sitting in the sun"! What? You're kidding me, right? We race on fully inflated tires on pavement that is bubbling up from the heat, with the friction of the tires on that melting pavement making it even hotter, and someone thinks that tires pop while just sitting there in the transition area?
Let's clarify. TIRES DON'T POP FROM AIR EXPANDING IN THEM IN HOT WEATHER. If this were the case there would be warnings on all tubes, tires and bicycles warning of imminent danger in hot weather. A warning might look like this: WARNING: DO NOT RIDE IN HOT WEATHER. AIR EXPANSION IN TIRE MAY CAUSE INNER TUBE FAILURE LEADING TO LOSS OF CONTROL AND SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
Have you ever seen a warning like this in the bicycle industry? Can you imagine the flurry of lawsuits such a failure would cause if this were a problem?
So what does cause tires to pop? Several things. One of which is old, dry rotted tubes. I can tell you I pumped up my share of tires that day, and there were quite a few that had old tires and wheels covered in cob webs. Incorrectly installed tubes that are twisted or caught in the bead can also add to the issue. I know that of all the thousands of bikes there, some are going to pop, and unfortunatly, I'm guessing the heat is still going to be blamed, and we, the heroes of the pit are going to be blamed for telling them different.
They say women are good communicators, this I can attest is true. However when given bad information it can truly cause a lot of havoc. The guys from Austin's Bicycle Sport Shop really stepped up, gave the correct information and pumped tires till they were sunburned and blue in the face.
It wasn't long before the women started showing up in droves to rack their bikes. As they came in, we got a lot of attention simply because we had the only tents in the transition area and most of the women wanted to have a final check done on their bikes. Having not worked next to the mechanics in a transition area the day before the race prior to that day, I was surprised to find that most competitors were unprepared for the race. Many had no means of hydration either, not owning a water bottle or cage to put it in. Many others needed bar end plugs which BSS happily supplied.
Things quickly turned from us showing our product to helping out the ever growing line of women heading to the mechanics with simple things. Things like putting air back in their tires after someone at the expo was telling them all to let the air out "because the tires would pop from sitting in the sun"! What? You're kidding me, right? We race on fully inflated tires on pavement that is bubbling up from the heat, with the friction of the tires on that melting pavement making it even hotter, and someone thinks that tires pop while just sitting there in the transition area?
Let's clarify. TIRES DON'T POP FROM AIR EXPANDING IN THEM IN HOT WEATHER. If this were the case there would be warnings on all tubes, tires and bicycles warning of imminent danger in hot weather. A warning might look like this: WARNING: DO NOT RIDE IN HOT WEATHER. AIR EXPANSION IN TIRE MAY CAUSE INNER TUBE FAILURE LEADING TO LOSS OF CONTROL AND SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
Have you ever seen a warning like this in the bicycle industry? Can you imagine the flurry of lawsuits such a failure would cause if this were a problem?
So what does cause tires to pop? Several things. One of which is old, dry rotted tubes. I can tell you I pumped up my share of tires that day, and there were quite a few that had old tires and wheels covered in cob webs. Incorrectly installed tubes that are twisted or caught in the bead can also add to the issue. I know that of all the thousands of bikes there, some are going to pop, and unfortunatly, I'm guessing the heat is still going to be blamed, and we, the heroes of the pit are going to be blamed for telling them different.
They say women are good communicators, this I can attest is true. However when given bad information it can truly cause a lot of havoc. The guys from Austin's Bicycle Sport Shop really stepped up, gave the correct information and pumped tires till they were sunburned and blue in the face.
This is Chris Carter. He was suppose to be doing retail.
Instead he's pumping hundreds of tires and getting a
"pumper's high". This guy must have lost 10 pounds
of water and a bit of skin from his hands as well.
Here is Chris after the event. Rest in peace Chris, rest in peace.
So remember boys and girls, don't let air out of your tires. If you must, at least wait until the race is over. Save those who have donated their time for your support from unneaded pumpers high. Pumpers high can kill. Just ask Chris.
Cheers!
Monday, June 11, 2007
Shipping Woes
Do you use DHL for your business? I have, and had lots of trouble with mis-billing. Everyone I know that has used them have shared their own horror stories.
Since last November I've been fighting DHL about a shipment of 4 boxes sent, 4 boxes received. What's hard about that? They are charging me for 16 boxes! Our representative from where the boxes were shipped from may have mislabled as 4 boxes per shipping label (4 labels) but wouldn't DHL have a clued as to how many physical boxes they actually handled? Apparently not! Not only that, but they automatically upgraded the ground shipping to overnight because of the number of boxes listed on each shipping label. Huh? Yup! Four stinking boxes cost me over $800!!!
Every month I call to straighten this out. I have gotten it knocked down to about half price, only $436, but this shipment should have only cost about $100. Every month I call, get transferred a few times, explain the situation about 3 times and am told that I will be credited and to wait 2-3 weeks for verification of the credit. Does it ever come? NO!
The latest with RSS shipments through DHL from over seas is that they lost 72 of our top end wetsuits for 2 weeks. Not only that, but once they found them, they shipped them from Californial, to Waco Tx (a 1 1/2 hour drive from it's Austin destination), only to be flown to Ohio,
split up and half sent back to Austin and the other half sent to California again. I am happy to say that we have finally received all the packages. Most of them are not in very good condition however. The outer boxes were torn, and some of the inner boxes were flattened and scraped up. Lucky for us the merchandise was squishy wetsuits, not something that would break from all the extra mishandling.
Now we are having more special customer deliveries shipped from our warehouse screwed up by DHL. Where does it end? My guess is when we ship through another company.
What good does great prices do you if you end up spending all your time tracking and managing what the heck DHL is doing with your packages? Our time is worth money isn't it? I think I'd rather pay a little extra and not worry about it then continue with DHL. What do you say? Join me in a strike against DHL? Let's go!
Happy shipping! Cheers!
Since last November I've been fighting DHL about a shipment of 4 boxes sent, 4 boxes received. What's hard about that? They are charging me for 16 boxes! Our representative from where the boxes were shipped from may have mislabled as 4 boxes per shipping label (4 labels) but wouldn't DHL have a clued as to how many physical boxes they actually handled? Apparently not! Not only that, but they automatically upgraded the ground shipping to overnight because of the number of boxes listed on each shipping label. Huh? Yup! Four stinking boxes cost me over $800!!!
Every month I call to straighten this out. I have gotten it knocked down to about half price, only $436, but this shipment should have only cost about $100. Every month I call, get transferred a few times, explain the situation about 3 times and am told that I will be credited and to wait 2-3 weeks for verification of the credit. Does it ever come? NO!
The latest with RSS shipments through DHL from over seas is that they lost 72 of our top end wetsuits for 2 weeks. Not only that, but once they found them, they shipped them from Californial, to Waco Tx (a 1 1/2 hour drive from it's Austin destination), only to be flown to Ohio,
split up and half sent back to Austin and the other half sent to California again. I am happy to say that we have finally received all the packages. Most of them are not in very good condition however. The outer boxes were torn, and some of the inner boxes were flattened and scraped up. Lucky for us the merchandise was squishy wetsuits, not something that would break from all the extra mishandling.
Now we are having more special customer deliveries shipped from our warehouse screwed up by DHL. Where does it end? My guess is when we ship through another company.
What good does great prices do you if you end up spending all your time tracking and managing what the heck DHL is doing with your packages? Our time is worth money isn't it? I think I'd rather pay a little extra and not worry about it then continue with DHL. What do you say? Join me in a strike against DHL? Let's go!
Happy shipping! Cheers!
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Cap Tex Tri, Rain Rain Go Away!
Memorial weekend is a time we celebrate our freedom and the cost of it. We celebrate our military personel, those currently serving and those who have given their lives to secure our freedoms.
In Austin, Memorial Day brings memories of the terrible flood in 1981 which killed 13 people and caused $36 million in damage.
This year fears of a repeat came when forecasters announced that they expected 100% chance of rain and thunderstorms from a very slow moving system on Saturday, 90% on Sunday and 90% on Monday. The already saturated soil was expected to add to the misery. Regardless, droves of athletes (apprx. 2,500) came to participate in the 2007 Capitol of Texas Triathlon.
We were planning on setting up at the expo on Saturday at noon. I got up early to do my morning ride but the forecast was not looking good. Lots of scattered showers all around. I decided to forego the ride and save my energy for setting up. Jack and Adam's Bicycle Sports was also going to have an event that day. Desiree Ficker who happens to be an Austinite was going to do a signing at the shop. I was invited by Jack to set up there. After saving a spot at J&A I was off to set up at the expo with Marcin. The expo was really small for the amount of people who were expected to be there, maybe 20 in all.
We were fortunate enough that all the scattered showers danced around us and not on us. The signing went off without a hitch and we set Desiree up with some of our dimpled water bottles and chip straps. She loves them!
Sunday came and the expo opened. We were slammed from the start. I think we broke our sales record from last year of 20 bags. Down the street, Marcin monitored the Bikini Bike Wash. I'm not sure if it was the weather or not, but even though the event got local news coverage we did not raise as much money as we had hoped. It did rain a bit in the last couple of hours before the close of the expo, but it wasn't bad. It was however just a small taste of what was to come.
Custom wetsuits for Mayor Will Wynn and Texas Governor Rick Perry.
In Austin, Memorial Day brings memories of the terrible flood in 1981 which killed 13 people and caused $36 million in damage.
This year fears of a repeat came when forecasters announced that they expected 100% chance of rain and thunderstorms from a very slow moving system on Saturday, 90% on Sunday and 90% on Monday. The already saturated soil was expected to add to the misery. Regardless, droves of athletes (apprx. 2,500) came to participate in the 2007 Capitol of Texas Triathlon.
We were planning on setting up at the expo on Saturday at noon. I got up early to do my morning ride but the forecast was not looking good. Lots of scattered showers all around. I decided to forego the ride and save my energy for setting up. Jack and Adam's Bicycle Sports was also going to have an event that day. Desiree Ficker who happens to be an Austinite was going to do a signing at the shop. I was invited by Jack to set up there. After saving a spot at J&A I was off to set up at the expo with Marcin. The expo was really small for the amount of people who were expected to be there, maybe 20 in all.
We were fortunate enough that all the scattered showers danced around us and not on us. The signing went off without a hitch and we set Desiree up with some of our dimpled water bottles and chip straps. She loves them!
Sunday came and the expo opened. We were slammed from the start. I think we broke our sales record from last year of 20 bags. Down the street, Marcin monitored the Bikini Bike Wash. I'm not sure if it was the weather or not, but even though the event got local news coverage we did not raise as much money as we had hoped. It did rain a bit in the last couple of hours before the close of the expo, but it wasn't bad. It was however just a small taste of what was to come.
Monday morning. Up at 4:30am. Set up a tent at one of our water stops. Marcin met me down at the Start/Finish line to set up our other tent and put up our banners around 5:40am. It began to rain. After about 10 minutes it began to pour. It didn't let up either. We put up banners, hardly able to see what we were doing. People were getting body marked and huddling under the various tents available. The large pvc framework of the start/finish line came crashing down right next to me as I was hanging the last banner. Hmm. That was a close one!
Then I got a text message at about 6:40am that the swim had been cancelled and that they would make a decision about the race starting at all at around 7:30. Marcin and I were due at 6:50am to present the Governor of Texas and the Mayor of Austin with custome wetsuits we had made for them. I searched all around for them but could not find. Is it any surprise? The time of our great publicity event came and went. At 6:55am, a sound from my phone. It's another text message. Cap Tex Tri has been cancelled. A mass exodus ensues. Is everyone's head down to shield their eyes from the rain, or would they all have their heads down anyway? An enormous amount of preparation has just been flushed away. Sad day, Memorial Day.
Custom wetsuits for Mayor Will Wynn and Texas Governor Rick Perry.
City of Austin Seal
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Bikini Bike Wash!
Austin, Texas, May 16th, 2007 – In an effort to raise awareness of bicycle safety in Austin, Rocket Science Sports and other Austin based businesses will be sponsoring the Bikini Bike Wash. “Rocket Science Sports is an Austin based company, this is were we got our start and we are very close to the athletic community here,” explained CEO Marcin Sochacki. “We love getting involved with activities that can also help out the cycling community, it is going to be a fun event”.
Created for Austin area bicyclists, the bike wash will be benefiting the Be Kind to Cyclists program www.bekindtocyclists.com on Sunday, May 27th from 11am to 5pm at Austin TriCyclist located at 923 Barton Springs Rd.
Not only will you be able to get your bike washed by bikini sportswear models but there will be products raffled off by Rocket Science Sports, Blackwell Research, and Road ID. In addition, Pure Austin Fitness is giving away a year membership, valued at nearly $1,000 and local restaurants are donating gift certificates as well.
The event is taking place to support the Be Kind to Cyclists Cause, and coincides with the Capital of Texas Triathlon on Monday, May 28th.
When: Sunday, May 27th from 11am to 5pm
Where: Austin TriCyclist 923 Barton Springs Rd. Austin, Texas 78704
Why: Capital of Texas Triathlon is on Monday, May 28th. Get your bike clean for the event and support the Be Kind to Cyclists cause.
Bonus: you don’t have to compete in the triathlon to have your bike washed!
Created for Austin area bicyclists, the bike wash will be benefiting the Be Kind to Cyclists program www.bekindtocyclists.com on Sunday, May 27th from 11am to 5pm at Austin TriCyclist located at 923 Barton Springs Rd.
Not only will you be able to get your bike washed by bikini sportswear models but there will be products raffled off by Rocket Science Sports, Blackwell Research, and Road ID. In addition, Pure Austin Fitness is giving away a year membership, valued at nearly $1,000 and local restaurants are donating gift certificates as well.
The event is taking place to support the Be Kind to Cyclists Cause, and coincides with the Capital of Texas Triathlon on Monday, May 28th.
When: Sunday, May 27th from 11am to 5pm
Where: Austin TriCyclist 923 Barton Springs Rd. Austin, Texas 78704
Why: Capital of Texas Triathlon is on Monday, May 28th. Get your bike clean for the event and support the Be Kind to Cyclists cause.
Bonus: you don’t have to compete in the triathlon to have your bike washed!
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Wildflower Triathlon
This year was my first time at the Wildflower Triathlon in California. What an event! It's the largest triathlon in the United States with 8,000 competitors and a total of 20,000 people camping out at a venue which is 40 miles from civilization. This means a captive audience for all the vendors promoting their products at this 3 day festival. Just take a look at the transition area! Have you ever seen anything like it?
This is our booth after we had to put away our wetsuits. Someone got skeered and made us stop showing them. Oh well, we sold lots of bags!
This is our new hire, LaFonda. She didn't talk much. She probably didn't have much energy because we never fed her. How horrible are we! Funny thing is that each time we passed a border patrol check point we got some strange looks from the officers. I'm surprised we were never pulled over for closer inspection.
Gophers were everywhere out there. It would have been wise to wear ankle braces for all the holes we stepped in. This is a visitor we had right in front of our booth. He was not shy at all and allowed a few people to have their picture taken with him before he decided there was too much going on. It was nice that he plugged up the hole he made before he left. He was friendlier than Chucky Cheese, and no children ran screaming in the opposite direction.
Friday, April 27, 2007
He's Done It!
Finally, after weeks of 2nd and 3rd place finishes, Niko Zielinski took first place at his weekly crit! Okay, so it took the absense of his arch nemisis/girlfriend Henna McRae in order to pull it out of the hat, but none the less it was a victory well earned.
It was a small group, maybe 6 kids. Niko saw his chance for victory and snatched it like a hungry dragon and left the pack behind. The next closest competitor showed style, commitment and a "never say die" attitude as he huffed and puffed around the .7 mile track for the one lap event. I think if he would have been on a bike the same size as Niko's, it would have been a real elbow throwing race.
This is a picture of Niko and Henna, with her little sister just squeezing into the frame. Henna is the daughter of 2002 USPRO Champion Chann McRae and Pro Road Racer Jen McRae. She's got racing in her genes. Well that, a lot of training, and a faster bike. Niko just has the advantage of Eload. :)So, now I need some help. I need to find a bike similar to Henna's. Skinny 20" tire road bike, I think she has a Felt, but I'm not able to find it online. It probably needs to be modified with mtb bars for reach. Niko will be 6 years old May 11th and is about 42-44 inches tall. Anyone know of anything? Got any suggestions? Niko needs your help!
Monday, April 23, 2007
Bragging About Custom
I've just got to brag about some custom products we've recently purchased from a company called Advertising Balloons of America. So far we've purchased two 10x10 tents, two backwalls, two 13' flags, and a bunch of banners.
They have recently hooked up with a supplier that can do digital custom at unheard of prices. The tent quality is exceptional. They are treated on the underside to be water resistant and the seams are sealed as well. We also received backwalls which again are very well made. Dean did the flags for us as a trial because he does not currently offer them but was considering it. When we received them we couldn't believe the rich look and quality. They are also full digital but are made from what feels like silk. Tell you what, at night when the event is over you just might find me curling up on these things.
So if you are looking for some custom tents, flags, backwalls, inflatable logo balloons and now even banners at insane prices, call my buddy Dean at Advertising Balloons of America. They ROCK!
Advertising Balloons of America
Dean Kaiserman
Ph # 888-369-1374 Intl # 760-369-1375
FX# 888-618-0803
dean@abofa.net
http://www.abofa.net/
Dean Kaiserman
Ph # 888-369-1374 Intl # 760-369-1375
FX# 888-618-0803
dean@abofa.net
http://www.abofa.net/
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Ironman Arizona Swim Placing
As any proud company man would do, with great anticipation I stayed glued to the frequent reports from this year's Ironman Arizona race. The hopeful prize? Our sponsored professional James Bonney coming out of the water 1st and wearing our Rocket wetsuit for all to see.
Flustered and frustrated we called James to first congratulate him on a fine show of athleticism as he finished overall in 7th place. We asked all the standard questions like how did the suit feel and fit, and if we needed to make any adjustments. James asked if we had seen the picture and proceeded to tell us the story behind it.
Apparently both the report and the final results were correct. Huh? What you talkin' 'bout Willis? Even though James was physically out of the water first, PROVING his swimming prowess, the actual spot where the timing chips are recorded from the swim was a short jog away from the water line. Remember the guy that was reported to be right on James's heels? Well as you can see from the picture the guy quickly sprinted around James ducking in front of him for the official 1st place result.
This no doubt seems to be a cheap shot to me, however well done none the less. This guy probably gets some sort of a sweet bonus for his placement out of the water. I guess our budget for placement bonuses for James needs to be reconsidered. A temporary Rocket Science Sports tattoo may not have been enough for him to throw an elbow for. Anyone have any thoughts they'd like to share about this?
Next time we'll be prepared! Other than changing our bonus structure (maybe a Starbuck's gift card?) I plan on teaching James some of my much feared ninja man moves. So watch out all you scurvy nave, James "The Ninja Rocket" Bonney coming through!
As soon as the feed reported that James Bonney was out of the water first with another guy right on his heels I sent out emails to everyone and immediately posted on my blog like a marketing maniac! It was time to do a HAPPY DANCE!
I kept checking back for more than 24 hours just so that I could see the official results with his name as numero UNO! But, what's this? Why does it say 2nd!!! I went back and checked the race reports. Still the same. But then why does the official results reflect otherwise? I was horrified!
I got with Marcin and asked him if he knew what was going on. Marcin said no, he hadn't heard from James but did find this lovely picture of him on the Ironman Website...
Flustered and frustrated we called James to first congratulate him on a fine show of athleticism as he finished overall in 7th place. We asked all the standard questions like how did the suit feel and fit, and if we needed to make any adjustments. James asked if we had seen the picture and proceeded to tell us the story behind it.
Apparently both the report and the final results were correct. Huh? What you talkin' 'bout Willis? Even though James was physically out of the water first, PROVING his swimming prowess, the actual spot where the timing chips are recorded from the swim was a short jog away from the water line. Remember the guy that was reported to be right on James's heels? Well as you can see from the picture the guy quickly sprinted around James ducking in front of him for the official 1st place result.
This no doubt seems to be a cheap shot to me, however well done none the less. This guy probably gets some sort of a sweet bonus for his placement out of the water. I guess our budget for placement bonuses for James needs to be reconsidered. A temporary Rocket Science Sports tattoo may not have been enough for him to throw an elbow for. Anyone have any thoughts they'd like to share about this?
Next time we'll be prepared! Other than changing our bonus structure (maybe a Starbuck's gift card?) I plan on teaching James some of my much feared ninja man moves. So watch out all you scurvy nave, James "The Ninja Rocket" Bonney coming through!
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Ironman Arizona Breaking News!
Online coverage of the 2007 Ironman Arizona reports that fellow Austinite, friend and Rocket Science Sports sponsored triathlete James Bonney was the first out of the water! The report was as follows
"By the end of the swim four of the seven had broken clear, and as they exited the water it was James Bonney in front with Bryan Rhodes right on his heels."
We had a Rocket Suit pulled off of the production line and air freighted to him in Arizona. It arrived by courier on Friday. Whew! That was close!
Below is a full page ad we had last year. The picture was taken of him finishing the swim at the 2006 Ironman Arizona. True story, the first time he swam in our Rocket Suit he bested his prior 200 meter record by 4 seconds! For someone at his level, that's HUGE!
Atta boy James! Too bad we don't make bikes and running shoes!
"By the end of the swim four of the seven had broken clear, and as they exited the water it was James Bonney in front with Bryan Rhodes right on his heels."
We had a Rocket Suit pulled off of the production line and air freighted to him in Arizona. It arrived by courier on Friday. Whew! That was close!
Below is a full page ad we had last year. The picture was taken of him finishing the swim at the 2006 Ironman Arizona. True story, the first time he swam in our Rocket Suit he bested his prior 200 meter record by 4 seconds! For someone at his level, that's HUGE!
Atta boy James! Too bad we don't make bikes and running shoes!
Friday, April 6, 2007
Who Wants To Be A Super Hero?
My good friend Jarrett Crippen, that's who! I've known Jarrett since nursery school. I've seen him at his best (Detective for the Austin Police Department) and at his worst (platinum blonde mullet, drunk and trying to get out of a passenger side car door with the seat belt still on). Hmmm, I've got to say that is the ONLY time he EVER got drunk. At least he was a silly drunk.
Anyway, Jarrett is off to Hollywood tomorrow to fight for justice as one of twelve contestants on a reality show called "Who wants to be a super hero?". His super hero character is one he made up when he was in 7th grade. He IS "TakeDown". Take a look at his video bid for the role - TakeDown vs. The Punk. Yeah, he's a real goof. Maybe someday I'll tell you about all his mishaps on a camping trip we took to Reimer's Ranch.
Anyway, Jarrett is off to Hollywood tomorrow to fight for justice as one of twelve contestants on a reality show called "Who wants to be a super hero?". His super hero character is one he made up when he was in 7th grade. He IS "TakeDown". Take a look at his video bid for the role - TakeDown vs. The Punk. Yeah, he's a real goof. Maybe someday I'll tell you about all his mishaps on a camping trip we took to Reimer's Ranch.
Tuesday, April 3, 2007
Fitness Experts Article
It seems that the founder of Rocket Science Sports, Marcin Sochacki is now famous! He's been featured in the April '07 issue of Fitness Experts. Look for the article about him and accompanying interview starting on page 52.Cheers!
Monday, April 2, 2007
Tri Under Water
The LoneStar Tri in Galveston Texas this past weekend was something to remember alright. The expo was held inside nothing more than a circus tent with a concrete floor. This wouldn't have been bad except that Galveston starting taking on water. Was it the beginning of the lower plains flooding from global warming? Sure seemed that way.
On Saturday Rianna and I just made it to our booth which we had set up the night before when the rain started. It came down harder than I think I've ever seen rain come down. The intensities varied throughout the day but it was non stop. Forget leaving the building for anything unless you planned on getting dowsed. There was a band playing at 9am but the worst thing about that was that they were moved inside the circus tent because of the rain. It was VERY loud. I had to scream at the customers, literally. All this at 9am was not fun at all.
Around 10am we noticed that the floors had water creeping in from around all the edges of the structure we were in. Dealers starting moving everthing toward the center of the building. I think it was around 1pm there was a sudden flash flood in the building that covered the entire expo floor in water 1-3 inches deep. It was a major scramble to get stowed product up off the floor. Tired triathletes having just finished their race and taking in much needed food and fluids were booted off of tables and chairs to save valuable merchandise. Some dealers and reps weren't so lucky and lost hundreds of dollars of merchandise to the water.
Even though the rains stopped by the evening, we all still stood in puddles through the last day of the expo. The rains killed sales for everyone and I think that overall it was a horrible experience. Had the rain not come, this event would certainly have been a pleaser to the vendors/dealers/reps attending. I'll be back again next year. Overall, Endorfun Sports put on a great event. The weather and a couple of other minor glitches would not stop me from coming next year.
On Saturday Rianna and I just made it to our booth which we had set up the night before when the rain started. It came down harder than I think I've ever seen rain come down. The intensities varied throughout the day but it was non stop. Forget leaving the building for anything unless you planned on getting dowsed. There was a band playing at 9am but the worst thing about that was that they were moved inside the circus tent because of the rain. It was VERY loud. I had to scream at the customers, literally. All this at 9am was not fun at all.
Around 10am we noticed that the floors had water creeping in from around all the edges of the structure we were in. Dealers starting moving everthing toward the center of the building. I think it was around 1pm there was a sudden flash flood in the building that covered the entire expo floor in water 1-3 inches deep. It was a major scramble to get stowed product up off the floor. Tired triathletes having just finished their race and taking in much needed food and fluids were booted off of tables and chairs to save valuable merchandise. Some dealers and reps weren't so lucky and lost hundreds of dollars of merchandise to the water.
Even though the rains stopped by the evening, we all still stood in puddles through the last day of the expo. The rains killed sales for everyone and I think that overall it was a horrible experience. Had the rain not come, this event would certainly have been a pleaser to the vendors/dealers/reps attending. I'll be back again next year. Overall, Endorfun Sports put on a great event. The weather and a couple of other minor glitches would not stop me from coming next year.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Lone Star Triathlon
We are gearing up to attend this weekend's Lone Star Triathlon Race and Festival being promoted by Endorfun Sports, March 30- April 1st. After years of various groups promoting this event, Endorfun Sports has stepped up and from what it sounds like will be one of coolest races and venues I've ever been to see. Keith Jordan has really got a unique vision for triathlon events and how to make them a real family affair. I can't wait to get down to Galveston for this.
Another groovy high point is that we will have our new tents and maybe even a couple ad flags for the event. Marcin did an awesome job with the design. I'll post some pictures from the event.
BTW, for all my industry pals, if you are looking for tents, banners, flags, or ad balloons you've gotta get in touch with Dean from Advertising Balloons of America. They do some really cool stuff including doing inflatable designs for movies like The Dukes of Hazzard. Dean's a great guy too. Tell him I sent ya!
Another groovy high point is that we will have our new tents and maybe even a couple ad flags for the event. Marcin did an awesome job with the design. I'll post some pictures from the event.
BTW, for all my industry pals, if you are looking for tents, banners, flags, or ad balloons you've gotta get in touch with Dean from Advertising Balloons of America. They do some really cool stuff including doing inflatable designs for movies like The Dukes of Hazzard. Dean's a great guy too. Tell him I sent ya!
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Painful Food
Just had to pass this along...
As I have myself in years past suffered as an athlete with painful foods/drinks I thought I'd share some brilliant information with my peoples.
There is a podcast on YourMTB.com hosted by Walker Thompson in which he interviews Dr. Douglas Stoddard on the topic of gastrointestinal irritation and excercise physiology. Truly, this is a must hear for any athlete whether pro, aspiring to be a pro, or in my case would like to ride my bike more that 1 hour/week but I'm just working way too much! Anyway, enough about my frustrations, get yer edumakacion on!
As I have myself in years past suffered as an athlete with painful foods/drinks I thought I'd share some brilliant information with my peoples.
There is a podcast on YourMTB.com hosted by Walker Thompson in which he interviews Dr. Douglas Stoddard on the topic of gastrointestinal irritation and excercise physiology. Truly, this is a must hear for any athlete whether pro, aspiring to be a pro, or in my case would like to ride my bike more that 1 hour/week but I'm just working way too much! Anyway, enough about my frustrations, get yer edumakacion on!
Monday, March 19, 2007
What A Rush!
Wow! I thought I'd be making a little more regular postings than this but there's just so much work to be done.
Marcin has done an awesome job so far designing products and getting them to market. Now it's time to set up a foundation to build on. Production schedules for the next few years, planning and designing sales tools, setting up price points on current products and figuring out where to go next. Event promotions are also on the list. Thank goodness I have Riana helping with that, not to mention my fine reps out in the field getting in touch with the dealers we intend to impress.
Marcin is on his way back to Austin from Asia. He's here for a day for a mad rush of meetings, photo shoots, sponsorship deals, and then off he goes again, to Europe this time. I've also got him going on a super secret mission to Italy to meet with a factory about producing *&@^@#$(%*!^*!&#$* (use decoder ring here) for Rocket Science Sports next year. Hehe! Got ya thinking eh! Good guy says "You may subject me to whatever torture you want, but a ninja never talks!" Bad guy replies "Ninja? You're a ninja? You're the big fat ninja everyone's talking about aren't you!" Good guy "Great, white, ninja.".
Name that movie!
Marcin has done an awesome job so far designing products and getting them to market. Now it's time to set up a foundation to build on. Production schedules for the next few years, planning and designing sales tools, setting up price points on current products and figuring out where to go next. Event promotions are also on the list. Thank goodness I have Riana helping with that, not to mention my fine reps out in the field getting in touch with the dealers we intend to impress.
Marcin is on his way back to Austin from Asia. He's here for a day for a mad rush of meetings, photo shoots, sponsorship deals, and then off he goes again, to Europe this time. I've also got him going on a super secret mission to Italy to meet with a factory about producing *&@^@#$(%*!^*!&#$* (use decoder ring here) for Rocket Science Sports next year. Hehe! Got ya thinking eh! Good guy says "You may subject me to whatever torture you want, but a ninja never talks!" Bad guy replies "Ninja? You're a ninja? You're the big fat ninja everyone's talking about aren't you!" Good guy "Great, white, ninja.".
Name that movie!
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Established Reps Wanted
Established independent sales reps needed in most U.S. territories for cutting edge tri apparel, wetsuit and accessory manufacturer. Rocket Scientists need not apply, we already have one. Email resume to Darren@RocketScienceSports.com. Company and product details available at www.RocketScienceSports.com.
Thursday, March 8, 2007
RSS CEO Gets Busted!
His nose that is! These are the dangers of taking a day off on a weekend and playing soccer. Hopefully the Paparazzi will get some pictures. I'll keep you posted.
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
Ad Campaign
So Marcin decided he wanted to invest in a new ad campaign (with my blessing) and now we're on our way to stardom! It's probably not what you think. The cost is relatively cheap and it is something that is better suited in a town like Austin where I live and it'll help at events. Marcin is having my auto tagged up with RSS logos. It's a travelling billboard! Gee, he really knows how to make me feel like part of the family.
For the moment, as long as my battery on my laptop holds out I'm trying my best to get some work done while hanging out at the cafe in the Whole Foods downtown which happens to be across from where my car is getting "personalized". I'll surely post the pics of the vehicle so that you can keep your eye out for it at various triathlons around Texas. It looks like we'll also be going to a couple in California and one in New Hampshire later this year.
Anyway, gotta run, battery fading fast. Cheers!
For the moment, as long as my battery on my laptop holds out I'm trying my best to get some work done while hanging out at the cafe in the Whole Foods downtown which happens to be across from where my car is getting "personalized". I'll surely post the pics of the vehicle so that you can keep your eye out for it at various triathlons around Texas. It looks like we'll also be going to a couple in California and one in New Hampshire later this year.
Anyway, gotta run, battery fading fast. Cheers!
Sunday, March 4, 2007
Building A Foundation
In the last week or so I've been fed a few tidbits of information from Marcin as to what's going on in the company so I wouldn't be completely in the dark on day 1. My second day of work is in a meeting with all the major players in this game, Marcin (CEO), Eunice (CFO) and Rianna (Event Coordinator).
Marcin Sochacki is the founder and CEO of the company. He has been an athlete all of his life and competed in his share of triathlons as well. He also has a background in aerospace engineering(rocket science), hence the company name. Marcin is a little different from most Americans, well, because he's Polish. I am Polish too, so I understand his sometimes "outside the box" sense of humor. I am however lacking the accent and the ability to speak the language. For those who know Marcin they will tell you that he is a very kind and very generous natured person. This I've found to be a quality which most of the other Polish people I've met possess. He is also very detail oriented and strives to attain making the most perfect product he can imagine while using his education to put facts behind the design of the products. No marketing hype here!
So our meeting went very well. We were able to address key components which we needed to focus on in order to build a strong foundation. We are secure with our current line and have set production schedules to take us through the next few years. We have also put together a proposal of events we may attend pending budgetary needs for the events and looking at our company calendar for any conflicts.
My next step is to meet with our various independant reps from around the country and get them up to speed with our current position and where we go from here. Additional reps will be hired for regions which do not yet have representation.
Cheers!
Marcin Sochacki is the founder and CEO of the company. He has been an athlete all of his life and competed in his share of triathlons as well. He also has a background in aerospace engineering(rocket science), hence the company name. Marcin is a little different from most Americans, well, because he's Polish. I am Polish too, so I understand his sometimes "outside the box" sense of humor. I am however lacking the accent and the ability to speak the language. For those who know Marcin they will tell you that he is a very kind and very generous natured person. This I've found to be a quality which most of the other Polish people I've met possess. He is also very detail oriented and strives to attain making the most perfect product he can imagine while using his education to put facts behind the design of the products. No marketing hype here!
So our meeting went very well. We were able to address key components which we needed to focus on in order to build a strong foundation. We are secure with our current line and have set production schedules to take us through the next few years. We have also put together a proposal of events we may attend pending budgetary needs for the events and looking at our company calendar for any conflicts.
My next step is to meet with our various independant reps from around the country and get them up to speed with our current position and where we go from here. Additional reps will be hired for regions which do not yet have representation.
Cheers!
Thursday, March 1, 2007
So It Begins!
My first few hours as an official Rocket Science Sport VP was spent looking at the back of my eyelids. Yes, I was sleeping. Twelve a.m. of March 1st came and went and was filled with dreams of, well, I'm not quite sure, but I was doing work of some type. I remember explaining the benefits of something to someone. Six a.m. came too quick and I'm in it for real now. So it begins!
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