The OA is overlooking at least one source of sponsorship i.e. the "keyboard" sailors. I derive an enormous amount of pleasure from all this stuff, and unlike television, I don't have to sit through endless commercials. I bought a shirt from SA, because they put on great coverage. I'd be happy to buy a shirt from the Tybee 500, especially if they stamped a big, red "SPONSOR" on the back. Granted, these are small ticket items in the grander scheme, but it all adds up.

I might even pay a little more for something limited addition. A nice shirt with all the competitors signatures would make a pretty nice souvenir (the signatures needn't be original).

Fair is fair, if you put on a show, I'm happy to pay admission.

Hell, you might consider incorporating and selling shares.