This photo answers a question I had after reading that Connor Baxter paddled the downwind race on a Starboard Unlimited Open Ocean, which is odd because the Open Ocean is 14' not unlimited. But this Starboard he is about to launch looks fully sic.
i wouldnt imagian he would really care Kissa in shortboarding it happens 90% of the time, guys buy the board which suits them best,and best for that wave usually the top local shaper for the areas the comp is on, then just sticker them up with there board sponnos stickers and all good! Both the board brands are happy.
When i was shaping for chilli he didnt actualy sponsor anyone for lack of coin but all the top guys were still riding em