How to Write a Race Resume for Sponsorship

With those new opportunities, and an advertising budget set aside by most companies to gain publicity, arises more chances to secure a spot as a representative who will be compensated for his work with products, or discounts on products. Being a sponsored driver is just like being an independent contractor.

The most common level of sponsorship is the ability to purchase equipment at a percentage discount of retail price. Because sponsored drivers are often expected to maintain their equipment regularly and attend larger events within their region, a sponsored driver rarely saves money. Instead, basic sponsorship helps to offset the cost of equipment and travel expenses. This is important to understand before you ever apply for sponsorship.

When you have grasped the concept of racing at the local level and have started to achieve success at a regional and state level, you might be ready to start applying to small companies, just to get your foot in the door. To appeal to a company, any company, regarding representing its likeness and products, you have to be able to outline what you can offer as a sponsored driver. The bigger the company, likely the bigger expectations they have for any prospects applying for a position on their racing team.

For example, a multiple-time world champion car manufacturer probably isn't the best place to start looking for a deal. Big companies generally want big results, AND a solid on- and off-track personality.

Creating a resume is a simple and professional method to supply this information to businesses at which you wish to apply. No fancy PowerPoint presentation needed, just a simple, basic listing of your qualifications (a picture or two of you with your cars and trophies won't hurt, but it's not necessary).

Being a sponsored driver is not only about winning races; yes, being competitive at the levels you intend to race at is definitely a plus, but your character on and off the track, and on internet message forums, will define your value to any possible sponsors. Having respected resources that can vouch for your worth as a sponsored driver is one of the most important tools of applying for sponsorship.

• Expect to get as much as you can provide for your prospective sponsor. The company doesn't owe you anything.
• Don't portray yourself as burnt out on the hobby and looking to get sponsored to revive your interest in racing.
• A manufacturer who makes products in direct competition with what you currently use will not automatically sponsor you just so you will run their equipment. Many companies prefer to sponsor racers who have supported their products as a customer.

And lastly, don't burn bridges. Sending out your resume for the first time may not necessarily yield any sponsorship for the upcoming season, but will introduce your name to those who constantly scout for new talent. Applying for sponsorship is just as much about networking with different companies as it is about racing.

Good luck!

This is an example form for a race resume:

Introduction

Introduce yourself, and outline your goals within the hobby and for sending your resume to prospective sponsors. Include big races you plan to attend, your main focus for your involvement within R/C racing (hint: it should have something to do with having fun), and even the reason why you started racing in the first place. As with this entire resume, MAKE SURE YOU USE CORRECT SPELLING AND GRAMMAR. Nothing says "this means nothing to me" like not taking the time to proof-read your resume.

Published by UndergroundRC.com, April, 2007