An App for the WCT?? Yes, please

I'm sure by now, you can see what a big marketing budget for a surf contest can do as evident by this year's US Open of Surfing. Pro surfers Julian Wilson and Josh Kerr tweeted how the Open was noticeably bigger than last. Even the local newspaper called it the SuperBowl of surfing.

The US Open of Surfing was co-sponsored by Nike 6.0, Hurley and Converse, and with that came a handsome marketing budget. They even developed a FREE US Open of Surfing app for the IPhone where you can watch the live webcast of the surf contest, music concerts, Walk the Walk fashion show, BMX, and skate competition. How much did that cost? Several thousands? Try at least $25,000 just for developing the app. Then there's the cost streaming and hosting.

However except for a few minor glitches in the beginning, I really liked how I could watch the live feed right on my iPhone. In addition, there were the results and schedule all conveniently located. I wouldn't have to be glued to my laptop for the web-cast.

However an app for just one event?? Well that doesn't do me any good after the event ends. I deleted the US Open app the day after. So it got me thinking, what if the major surf companies: Billabong. Quiksilver, Rip Curl, and Hurley either 1) develop an app to stream their events or 2) all team up with FuelTV to stream each WCT event.

Because in reality, these surf companies just don't have that type of money or resources to develop an app for just one event. The money would be of better use to improve the web-cast or the contest. Fuel TV is already making ways by broadcasting several of this year's WCT surf events live on their channel.

I'd pay for an app that allows me to stream the contests right on my iPhone though I might be regretting it later when I see my data plan bill for the month. Did they really get rid of unlimited data plan?? I'd be willing to pay up to $2.99; I think at any price point higher, the value doesn't equate to the cost (streaming quality, small screen, interactive features). How much would you pay??

Note: I couldn't see the live score or the situation as the heat progressed so if you're reading this and are considering on developing an app please add live scoring.