Hobie Eyewear, based in Oceanside, CA, honored Conrad Ferla and AJ McWhorter with the Rep of the Year Awards for their “exceptional achievements, embodying the spirit of the brand and contributing significantly to its growth.”

Ferla, Hobie Eyewear’s rep for New England and the Mid-Atlantic states in Skate, Surf and Outdoor Categories, “strategically planned and executed exceptional service to his accounts, resulting in a 50 percent growth in business within his territories over the past calendar year.”

Beyond his contributions to the retail landscape, Ferla’s passion extends into the surf community, where he “played a pivotal role in preserving public access to New England’s shores. His active involvement contributed to a successful movement, leading to the passage of shoreline access legislation by the Governor of Rhode Island. This historic victory grants public access along the state’s shores, significantly impacting Rhode Island locals,” said Hobie in a release.

“I would like to acknowledge Conrad for his perseverance, determination and selfless dedication. He exemplifies a true team player, consistently doing what is right, even during challenging times,” said National Sales Manager Oliver Reyes at Hobie Eyewear

McWhorter was honored as Rep of the Year for Sales and Sports Marketing in the Fishing/Outdoor categories. He has worked for Hobie Eyewear for 11 years and “rallied over 50 percent of his dealer base to embrace the Hobie Eyewear line.”

Hobie Eyewear’s Director of Sales and Service, Evie Ksenopoulos, said of McWhorter, “AJ’s stellar reputation resonates far and wide, amplified by his influential role as Tournament Director, spearheading the Hobie Bass Open Series. His unparalleled respect among peers and an unmatched passion for the brand underscores his remarkable achievements.”

McWhorter’s background includes over 18 years in sales and management in the outdoor and fishing Industry, 15-plus years of local and national scale fishing tournament directing and development, and 10-plus years with Hobie Cat working in sales and sports marketing. He is a former competitive kayak angler with multiple top national wins, placements and qualifications. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management.

Images courtesy Hobie/Facebook