OK... for all of ya' that missed it, before I made it more "PC", here is the short version of my post:
No, I don't think they should be given a free spot. If the competition was open to everyone (men included), then I would say ok. But since the Elite Series, Bassmaster Southern Opens, Bassmaster Central Opens, BASS Federation Nation and Bassmaster Weekend Series are not gender specific, then I think all of those are fine. The minute they open the womens tour to all, not just women, then I would say "ok, give them a spot". But as long as it keeps anyone out, whether it be gender, race, etc... then it has no place in the "big show".
The part that I really harped on, which I think Bill in VA was the only one that was able to read it before I deleted it, was a long drawn out speil about how (some) women promote products and get their sponsors. Before your mind drops into the gutter - I wasn't refering to sexual favors. My example was a young lady, with a pretty face and nice smile, who drew lines of men to our booth at one event. She couldn't answer a single question about the product that (WE) were promoting. All she could do it smile and flirt. Anytime a question came up, she would refer them to me - like I was her little servant or something. Really pissed me off. Don't get me wrong - she is a sweet lady. But I work my butt off for my sponsors. I memorize gear ratios and rod numbers, worm colors and sizes, different lure characteristics, etc... and I fish with all of it. I don't promote things that I don't fish with. She was having new sponsors literally throwing new deals to her left and right at the show... and she knew SQUAT about their product. Don't take it wrong - because I call men the same thing - but I call people like that "Deal Whores". They get "deals" on product, and they jump on it, whether they use it or not. Disgusting. By the end of the show, I bet this young lady picked up dozens of new sponsors, and she couldn't tell me a thing about any of them.
Now, I have met the total opposite. I don't know a whole lot about her, but I had the pleasure of meeting Shelly Perry at BPS Hampton. Everything that I know about her from that meeting told me she was professional, and knew her stuff. Like I said - I don't know much about her, but her demeanor was that of a true professional. She liked to joke around with us - a real down to earth person, but very professional when people asked her questions. I respect people like that. The former - I don't care for much.
OK... I toned it down a little. I know it's still not PC, but heck, look what Toxic posted! :lol: (Thanks for opening the door for me to speak my mind Tox!
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All the best,
Glenn