[deeppeace]

Hi

Just thought I would respond to this thread seeing as my name has come up. I don't want anyone to be mislead about how money can be made in this sport. In my experience, sponsorship opportunities are the most lucrative. Appearances can also bring in some cash, but don't expect to make money on print interviews (I have only ever been paid for print interviews once or twice in the event of exclusive interviews), and very seldom for TV interviews (talk shows, etc). Of course, my expenses are always covered in conjunction with these interviews, either by the media outlet or by my sponsors. Another potential earner will be your participation in documentary-style television productions and sale of your own freediving footage for such films.

It did take me a long time and several world records before sponsorship and other remuneration opportunities came my way, however. So to begin with I was forced to do a lot of stuff either for nothing or just for my expenses.

I hope this information helps you to have a realistic view of what kind of money can be made and how. Just keep in mind at all times that any media outlet, company etc that approaches you for your involvment is because you bring something to their end product. Only work for nothing if it is really good exposure relating to your ultimate freediving career objectives. Whenever a production company approached me for my involvement in a film but said they had no budget to pay me, I would only agree to take part if everyone else (camera, director, editor, etc) were working for free. Naturally, I was being sarcastic.....there is money in their budget for you, you just have to show them you are worth it and that you know what you are doing! Good luck.

My two cents worth regarding taking any kind of medication while freediving - consult your physician and proceed with absolute caution.

Tanya Streeter