In a recent thread about ratchet blocks, Dan DeLave commented:
"I would like to hear more goods news stories about supportive companies so we can all benefit from great service on great products. It is harder to get good word out than bad word. Let's try here."
Rather than hijack that thread, I am posting this one. Please add any and all great experiences you've had with companies that support our sport.
Only one rule: If you want to throw trash, START YOUR OWN THREAD.
My experiences:
Bar none, best experience for warrantee support is Standard Horizon. Some years ago, I ran over my handheld VHF with my car (long story). Picked it up, it looked OK. Turned it on, was able to receive weather, but the display didn't work. Took it to the event, did a radio check, it was transmitting and receiving perfectly.
But that's not the impressive part. I sent it back to Standard Horizon with a letter explaining exactly what I did, and asked if they could fix it (it may have been out of warrantee). They sent me a brand new one, FREE!!!!! I'm sure they framed that letter and it's on display somewhere at their headquarters...
As for best overall support, it's absolutely got to be Hobie Cat (and their dealers). Besides all the years they spent basically carrying the regatta program and building what we esentially use today, they continue to pump out product for raffles (including kayaks!), donate cash to major events, support the newsletter, special class projects (giant trailer comes to mind), and on and on and on.
Again, that's not the best part. I've been spending a lot of time with the monohull world this year, and supplied-boat events are all but unheard of anymore. Besides support for the Alter Cup on alternating years, Hobie Cat steps above the others by supplying boats (and vital staff support) for Hobie Worlds, ISAF events, and occasionally for North Americans.
Needless to say, these companies certainly have cemented my brand loyalty. Over the past 10 years, I’ve bought two Standard radios, and three brand new Hobie 16s.
Let’s hear your best stories!
Mike