Oct
09
Chris Andersons‘ “The Long Tail” is one of those great books that articulates a shift in economics and society even as it is underway.
An argument within the book is that the blockbuster hits we’re accustomed to are a function of the technology and economics of producing, promoting and distributing goods and services, rather than people’s inherent enthusiasm for identical, formulaic entertainment (and other goods and services).
He’s right of course. And this weekend I got to participate in one of the greatest long tail events in the city (in my opinion): the International 14 National Championship. A race of high performance, 14 foot sailboats.
No more than 100 people came out to watch, but those that did got to see wild sailing in 20 knots of wind that gusted into the 30s. Boats careening around the course off Shilshole, punctuated with regular capsizes, broken masts, ripped sails, boats on rocks, beaches, and wherever else they crashed home. For those of us who competed in the event, we got a thrill ride that just can’t be beat. And one that you couldn’t pay 99% of the population to participate in. Long live the long tail!
Pics of the event aren’t available yet, but www.i14.org gives a feel for the boats.
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