Originally Posted by
Francis M.
30 sponsored drivers? I don't know about that. Yokomo, Tamiya, X-ray, and Associated has a strong presence at the worlds and that encourages local drivers to pick their car. I've also seen X-ray provide a care package to anyone driving their car at the worlds. I've heard Yokomo did the same at another race.
Originally Posted by
cplus
I wouldn't be shocked. "Sponsored" could be as simple as heavy discount on parts.
I would very much doubt almost anyone at the worlds paid full price for their chassis and electronics.
Very few true privateers can do a race like that. I have a "discount" sponsorship with Serpent and was one of only a few at that low of a level. Most drivers there did not pay for large portions of the event between chassis, electronics, tires, entry fees, and/or travel. I paid for everything...and was outclassed in many ways, including driver skill and equipment. I went for the experience, and had a great time, but after seeing how the top teams and drivers actually do an event like this, I know buying the winners brand is not going to do anything for me as there is so much more to it.
When I went through tech in 12th scale, I had 1 chassis, 1 battery, 2 motors. The 3 Yokomo guys in front of me (unsure who, as it was all their mechanics) had boxes of 10-15 batteries and motors.
First picture is from TC and from where we sat to the end of the tent was all Yokomo. Xray had equal space on the other side of us. ARC, Durango, and some of Serpent were at a table inbetween.
Second picture is from 12th scale and just the raw volume of equipment some people brought.