This week's video is now on our YouTube channel in 4k!
Ever wondered what happens behind the scenes for FM to attend an event? This week on FM Live, Keith Tanner shows some of the organized chaos at FM. From promo items, to car prep to packing trailers and parts in boxes…. It’s a lot of work!
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Full AI Summary:
Keith from Flyin' Miata gives a detailed and insightful behind-the-scenes look into what it takes to attend a major Miata event, such as the recent Miatas at The Gap. This isn't just a casual trip or a simple setup—it's a meticulously planned operation that involves months of preparation, careful coordination, and a deep passion for the Miata community.
Keith starts by highlighting the significance of these events, where hundreds, if not thousands, of Miata enthusiasts gather to celebrate their shared love for the car. Miatas at The Gap, for instance, saw over 1,000 cars and about 2,000 people attending, making it a monumental occasion. But beyond the fun and excitement, there's a lot of hard work that goes into Flyin' Miata's participation.
The process begins long before the actual event, with discussions between Flyin' Miata and the event organizers. The team doesn't just show up as vendors; they actively seek ways to enhance the event, whether by sponsoring activities, like the Autocross at Miata Reunion, or contributing to special sessions, like the Founding Fathers discussion. Their involvement is about adding value to the event and ensuring that attendees have a memorable experience.
Once the role at the event is defined, the planning kicks into high gear. This involves deciding who will attend and which cars to bring. Flyin' Miata has a spreadsheet to manage these details, ensuring that the right people are in the right place and that the office back home continues to run smoothly. Not everyone can go, as some staff need to stay behind to keep the business operating, so it's a careful balancing act.
Choosing which cars to take is another critical decision. The team tries to bring a representative from each Miata generation to showcase parts and products specific to those models. For instance, their NC Turbo and the Target Miata are regular features, while Roller Girl, a car typically used for R&D, made its debut at this year's event. These cars aren’t just for show; they're often used to demonstrate new products or developments in Miata performance.
Preparation of the cars is no small task either. Since these are development vehicles, they are often in various states of assembly, with parts being tested or modified. Ensuring they're ready for display requires careful coordination, sometimes involving last-minute efforts to get them show-ready.
The logistics of transporting everything to the event is another massive undertaking. Flyin' Miata uses trailers to haul the cars and display materials across the country, adhering to strict Department of Transportation regulations. This means their drivers must plan for multi-day trips, with careful attention to legal driving hours and safety standards. For Miatas at The Gap, this involved a two-and-a-half-day drive, burning through a significant amount of fuel just to get there and back.
Once on-site, the setup begins. The team meticulously plans the layout of their display area, often rehearsing it in their shop before the event to avoid chaos upon arrival. This includes setting up tents, arranging tables, and positioning cars and displays, all of which take several hours to perfect. The displays themselves are thoughtfully crafted, with custom-built stands for parts like wheels and turbo kits, ensuring everything looks professional and appealing to visitors.
Keith also touches on the challenges of the event itself. Flyin' Miata's team spends long hours on their feet, engaging with enthusiastic Miata owners from dawn until dusk. These interactions are crucial, as they offer the team firsthand insights into customer experiences and desires, which are vital for their continued product development. They also manage to run additional activities during the event, such as seminars and social media updates, which require careful staffing and scheduling to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Despite the intense workload, Keith notes that the Miata community is generally respectful and trustworthy, with little concern about theft or damage to their displays. This mutual respect highlights the close-knit nature of the Miata enthusiasts, making these events not just a marketing opportunity but a celebration of shared passion.
Flyin' Miata's dedication to the Miata community is evident in their long history of attending and supporting these events, dating back to the early 90s. Their approach has always been hands-on, with founder Bill Cordell even spending entire events under cars, installing parts for attendees. This tradition of deep engagement continues to define Flyin' Miata's presence at these gatherings, making them a beloved and integral part of the Miata scene.
In summary, Flyin' Miata's involvement in events like Miatas at The Gap is far more than just showing up. It’s a comprehensive effort that involves months of planning, meticulous logistics, and a genuine commitment to enhancing the Miata experience for all. Keith's behind-the-scenes tour underscores the hard work and passion that drive Flyin' Miata, making their participation in these events not just a business endeavor but a labor of love.