WHO we are and What makes us stand out
Reinventing the Outdoor Show Experience
The Big Gear Show is owned and operated by longtime outdoor retail veterans producing shows by and for the greater outdoor industries. The company (Lost Paddle Events) is privately held and has no shareholders or angel investors to satisfy; this allows for appropriate pricing and participant benefits that resonate. Specifically, the Lost Paddle Events team focus on three key aspects of value for all exhibiting and attending groups:
- affordable pricing and increased value
- focus on discovery, innovation and relationship-building
- advancing inclusion to expand relevance and grow industry influence
The Lost Paddle Events team may be small, but is mighty and well connected in the active outdoor world inclusive of brands, retailers, media, advocacy orgs and community leaders nationwide. With three iterations of Big Gear under their belt, this team is building the future of relevant, powerful and responsible gatherings.
Staging together with The Big Gear Show and Outside Festival is (e)-revolution, featuring pedal assist e-bikes from dozens of companies focused on bringing cycling joy to more people. The new technology allows for better access and participation in active outdoors for more people. (e)-revolution curates only the best bike builders using proven battery tech and components for reliable and safe riding. Join us as education and experience are rolling out at (e)-revolution!
Show Dates and Hours
Industry Hours
Friday, May 31, 2024 10 AM – 5PM
Public Hours
Saturday, June 1, 2024 12pm – 8PM
Sunday, June 2, 2024 12 PM – 8PM
Our Team
The Big Gear Show is produced by Lost Paddle Events, founder of (e)revolution and owner of Sportshows.
Sutton Bacon
SHOW COFOUNDER
Sutton is the CEO of Lost Paddle Events and cofounder of The Big Gear Show and its predecessor Paddlesports Retailer. He is the former Chairman & CEO of the Nantahala Outdoor Center and currently sits on the board of directors of several outdoor industry and hospitality companies.
Darren Bush
SHOW COFOUNDER
Darren is the Owner and Chief Paddling Evangelist for Rutabaga Paddlesports and cofounder of The Big Gear Show and its predecessor Paddlesports Retailer. He also launched and directs Canoecopia, the largest paddlesports consumer event in the world.
Kenji Haroutunian
OUTDOOR SHOW DIRECTOR
Bringing over 25 years of show creation and management experience, Kenji is the Lost Paddle Events Outdoor Show Director, leading The Big Gear Show’s outdoor and paddle segments. He is the former Outdoor Retailer Show Director and founder of Kenji Consults.
Lance Camisasca
BIKE SHOW DIRECTOR
Bringing over 25 years of show creation and management experience, Lance is the Lost Paddle Events Bike Group Director, leading both (e)revolution and The Big Gear Show’s bike segment. He is the former Interbike Show Director and founder of PressCamp.
Tod Alberto
CONSUMER SHOW MANAGER
As the General Manager for our Lost Paddle Consumer Show Division, Tod has been producing Consumer Sport Shows for 12 years in major metro markets including Chicago, New York, Boston & Philadelphia that attract over 50,000 consumers annually.