I went to the Granfondo Dinosaur this weekend.
Since I had booked accommodation, I was reluctant to return right away and even watched the prize draw. (I have high expectations that my chances will increase significantly..ㅋㅋ)
I participate in more than 10 Granfondos every year, and among the many sponsors, one stands out. It's WiAWeS.
WiAWeS sponsors not only Speed Age but also various cycling events such as the Tour de Bike. It is one of the most active sponsors in Korea.
At most competitions, they offer frames or wheelsets worth several million won as prizes.
However, there were prize-related issues in 2023. There were opinions that it was inventory disposal, that size selection was impossible, and that customs duties had to be paid, making resale difficult.
As a sponsor who prepared a prize with considerable expense, it must have been somewhat bittersweet.
However, from 2024 onwards, they quickly reflected this feedback.
The part that the official always emphasized on the podium was impressive:
“Size selection possible, color selection possible (custom), handlebar option selection possible, seatpost option selection possible”
Honestly, I was amazed.
These options are not a given but a sponsor's discretion. The fact that they opened up these choices as much as possible to the participants made me feel their considerable consideration.
More than anything, what impressed me about this prize was that it wasn't just old stock but the latest 'Radical Pro XP 2.0' frame.
I also checked out the actual product at the booth, and both the design and color were definitely better than before.
The line connecting the frame and cockpit was much smoother. They also increased the drop bar flare angle to match the current trend, which was impressive because it combined aesthetics with usability in a dropped position. It's even more so considering that they redesigned the existing cockpit.
I really want to commend them for this.
(WiAWeS dealerships were also offering interest-free installments with certain credit cards. I'm considering getting one custom-made when my savings account matures at the end of the year.)
Although I didn't win, I felt very 'grateful' about the prizes WiAWeS prepared. It made me want to participate in the next competition they sponsor and reminded me of how important sponsors are.
It's amazing that they support prizes worth hundreds of millions of won every year. As a cyclist, I felt grateful and had many thoughts.
I am also very grateful to other sponsors, such as Hongjin or Kabuto, who enrich events big and small.
The next Granfondo is in Hongcheon. It will be competitive, but I'm looking forward to it.
WiAWeS, please continue your success and keep up the good support. Fighting!
