Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and skiing manufacturing, announced today the final timeline for its much anticipated ski boot launch. Peter Metcalf, BD’s President and CEO states, “The BD Ski Boot Line will officially launch in Fall/Winter 2008. We are breaking this news well in advance of the SIA and OR Winter trade shows for many reasons, including the desire to test the boots for a full season before bringing them to market. We want to focus in winter 2007 on the unmatched strength of our new freeride ski line, refining our boots and honing the development of a proprietary binding system.” Metcalf continues “BD has been at the leading edge of boundary-free skiing for over 20 years, and while the progress on the ski boot program has been phenomenal to date, the emergence of a new lightweight, ingenious telemark binding design that can be integrated into a new boot/binding system has encouraged us to move the launch to 2008.”

Riding the current momentum from the award-winning Havoc, Verdict and Lyric skis, the Fritschi Freeride Plus binding and the new O1 telemark binding, BD has set the table for a strong Winter '07 with the launch of ten new styles in their Freeride Ski Line. In 2008, Black Diamond will dually launch their new alpine touring and telemark ski boot line in addition to the new integrated telemark binding system. Metcalf details, “The new telemark binding is a patent-pending design that integrates the boot and binding in a step-in, 360-degree releasable, compact and lightweight system. The Fall 2008 telemark boot line will be reverse compatible—meaning the new boots will work equally well with the new binding system as well as all existing 75 mm bindings. ”The development of the freeride/alpine touring ski boots will coincide with the telemark boot launch in Fall 2008 as an equally dynamic and featured element of the line."

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee-owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry and freeride skiing. By consistently building innovative products and actively preserving the mountain environment, Black Diamond has assumed a leadership role in the international outdoor community.

September 20, 2006 (Salt Lake City, Utah)
Black Diamond and Friends of Utah Avalanche Center Raise Over $33,000

Faithful powder-hounds braved rain of biblical proportions to attend Black Diamond’s 13th Annual fundraising party for the Utah Avalanche Center (UAC). A global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, Black Diamond and nearly 700 backcountry enthusiasts raised more than $33,000 for the UAC, which provides daily avalanche advisories and warnings, mountain weather forecasts and avalanche education for the Wasatch Front and beyond.

An hour into the party, the skies cleared and kids and dogs splashed through puddles to the tunes of Jerry Joseph. Partygoers filled their plates courtesy of Barbacoa and their cups courtesy of the Uinta Brewing Company. Black Diamond thanks everyone who attended and participated in the event, including the Byrne family and the local artists and community members who donated silent auction items.

Colleen Graham Nipkow, Black Diamond’s Senior Marketing Manager and President of the Friends of the Utah Avalanche Center, commented on the importance of the annual fundraiser. "The skiers and riders in the Wasatch Range truly took ownership of the Utah Avalanche Center when Federal funding cuts threatened its sustainability. It is the generosity and community-mindedness of local backcountry users that allows everyone to enjoy and explore the Wasatch Range safely. Black Diamond is honored to serve as a venue for this important and inspirational event.”

August 23, 2006 (Salt Lake City, Utah)
Black Diamond to Host 13th Annual Utah Avalanche Center Fundraiser

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing, ski and backcountry gear, and the Uinta Brewing Company, will sponsor the 13th annual fund-raiser party to benefit the Utah Avalanche Center (UAC). Slated for 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 14th at Black Diamond (2084 East 3900 South), the festivities will include dinner from Barbacoa Mexican Grill, music by Jerry Joseph and a silent auction featuring generous donations from various outdoor manufacturers.

“The UAC Fund Raiser is an annual tradition for the Wasatch backcountry community,” explains Colleen Graham Nipkow, Friends of the UAC President and Marketing Operations Director at Black Diamond. “It reconnects people after the dog days of summer, and celebrates the access we have to some of the best powder on the planet.”

A benefit for the UAC, the annual fundraiser is an important initiative, explains Bruce Tremper, Director of the UAC. “The UAC Fundraiser is a key source of funding. For years, Black Diamond has spearheaded this effort and raised significant dollars that contribute to the Friends of the Avalanche Center, which in turn funds forecasting and educational programs for local backcountry users and avalanche awareness programs.”

The UAC is responsible for providing daily avalanche advisories for the northern Utah. Federal funding cuts force the Center to run almost entirely on non-federal money and on a season-by-season basis. The Center has been able to operate for the past ten years due to the community response by backcountry users and local and national businesses.

Tickets are $30 per person if purchased by September 9th ($35 at the door). Buying tickets in advance ticket enters party-goers into the raffle. Advance tickets are available at the Black Diamond Retail Store (2084 East 3900 South). All proceeds will be donated to the Utah Avalanche Center. For additional information, contact Colleen Graham Nipkow at Black Diamond Equipment at 801-365-5522.

July 31, 2006 (Salt Lake City, Utah)
Black Diamond Bolsters Marketing, Design and Sales Teams

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing, ski and backcountry gear, announced today the hiring of Adam Chamberlain as Marketing Brand Manager, Nathan Kuder as Softgoods Category Manager and Steve Kropf as the Rockies region Sales Representative for its Ski and Mountain lines.

“We are exceptionally pleased with the addition of Adam, Nathan and Steve to our team,” states Black Diamond CEO Peter Metcalf, who continues, “These individuals add diverse backgrounds and experience to our culture, yet each is passionate about the sports and markets we serve"

Chamberlain comes to Black Diamond after more than a decade at Patagonia, where he most recently served as the Product Marketing Manager. With a life defined by telemark and backcountry skiing and enthusiasm for climbing, Chamberlain also has fieldwork experience with the Nevada Wilderness Project and the Peace Corps, where he worked in Honduras as a Natural Resources Specialist.

"Adam's career has personified the mutually compatible concepts of doing well while doing good for humanity, all the while taking his work and himself to the next level,” comments Metcalf.

Chamberlain is eagerly anticipating his move to BD. “The opportunity to return to the mountains, help to strengthen Black Diamond’s brand and work with such a passionate and focused team is ideal for me at this point in my life and career.”

With seven years experience at Osprey Packs, Kuder joins BD’s Softgoods team with a solid command of development and production. In addition to serving as Osprey’s Product Manager, Kuder also worked as the company’s Sustainability Director, a role that will sync well with Black Diamond’s commitment to preserving the environment. Kuder is a devoted parent, telemark skier and mountain traveler.

Kropf joins the Black Diamond sales team having been the co-founder and former President of Indigo Equipment Inc., a company that specialized in backcountry hardgoods and innovative backpack designs. Prior to Indigo, Kropf worked and lived in Jackson, WY, where he was the Sales and Product Manager for Life Link International. Kropf currently resides in Aspen, CO, and will handle the Black Diamond Ski Line and components of the Mountain Line, including gloves, headlamps and packs.

Kropf says, “Having worked in many aspects of the outdoor and ski businesses for years, I am proud to be joining the ranks of Black Diamond. The current line of skis, bindings, shovels and packs are super innovative, and the pending introduction of new product makes this an exciting time to join the team. The energy, drive and product focus that currently resides within BD is absolutely contagious.”

June 16, 2006 (Salt Lake City, Utah)
Black Diamond Completes Expansion Nationally and Globally

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing, ski and backcountry gear, announced today the opening of its new Asian operations in Zhuhai, China and the completion of a multi-million dollar capital investment program in its Salt Lake City, Utah facilities and Basel, Switzerland offices.

Peter Metcalf, BD’s President and CEO, comments that the investments, though bold, are logical and come at the right time for the company. “The opening of BD Asia is one component of an overarching global plan that strengthens our entire company. As Black Diamond nears the end of its fiscal year, we’re seeing North American growth of roughly 20% complemented by 20% growth in most pre-season categories for Fall 2007 while pan Asian growth is running over 25%.” Metcalf continues, “Opening our facility in Zhuhai will help BD emerge as a true global brand with an efficient manufacturing and logistics network and enhanced, tactical communication from the design process all the way through production.”

BD Asia is a Free Trade Zone Facility, and is situated near Hong Kong and industrial suppliers. The staff at BD Asia is currently comprised of 25 people, including long-time BD employees Ryan Gellert as Managing Director and Bill Reimann as Director of Operations. The staff will expand as operations ramp up to meet the increasing global demand for BD’s products. The mission of Black Diamond (BD) Asia is to serve as a global distribution hub, support product design and development, assist in the sourcing of raw materials and Quality Assurance, augment manufacturing and support sales and marketing efforts throughout China.

The first climbing and backcountry skiing company to establish a full spectrum operational facility in China, BD remains committed to a “Made in Black Diamond” strategy, which capitalizes on employees’ skill sets and efficiencies in the United States, Europe and Asia to develop, build, and maintain in-house quality assurance and control in order to build the best gear available.

The Asian expansion completes a 24-month, multi-million dollar capital investment program that saw renovations and expansion of Black Diamond’s offices in Salt Lake City, Utah, as well as at BD’s European headquarters in Basel, Switzerland. Further large investments included the acquisition and integration of UGS PLM software, which streamlines the management of product development and global manufacturing, as well as over $1 million in enhancements to the Salt Lake City manufacturing operations such as new machinery, automation equipment, new production lines and improved layouts.

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee-owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry and freeride skiing. By consistently building innovative products and actively preserving the mountain environment, Black Diamond has assumed a leadership role in the international outdoor community.

March 10, 2006 (Salt Lake City, Utah)
Black Diamond Welcomes 4th Annual Wasatch PowderKeg

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing, skiing and backcountry gear, will host the 4th Annual Wasatch PowderKeg on Saturday, March 18, 2006. A ski mountaineering race, the PowderKeg accesses out-of-bounds terrain from Alta, a ski area in Little Cottonwood Canyon, and culminates at Big Cottonwood Canyon’s Brighton ski resort after traversing the heart of the Wasatch Mountains.

“Ski mountaineering races are increasing in popularity,” commented Colleen Graham Nipkow, Black Diamond’s PowderKeg Organizer. “Registration numbers continue to grow every year, and skiers are traveling from farther away to take part in the PowderKeg. It is a wonderful event for both the local and national backcountry skiing communities.”

The Black Diamond Wasatch PowderKeg is presented by Patagonia along with AirMed, Alta, Brighton, Solitude, Ernst & Young, SCARPA, Ski Utah and the Utah Travel Council, Backcountry and Couloir magazines, Uinta Brewing, Sports Guide and Thorlos?. The race features two categories: Recreational and Racing. The Recreational Division covers 5.77 miles, with 3,550 feet of ascent and 3,352 feet of descent, and the Racing Division covers 8.39 miles, with 5,413 feet of ascent and 5,102 feet of descent. Entrance fees are $55 for each division, and registration is open through March 12, 2006. Late registration, accepted through March 15, jumps to $75 per competitor. For more information or to register online go to: www.bdel.com/powderkeg/index.html.

March 1, 2006 (Salt Lake City, Utah)
Black Diamond Signs New Korean Distributor

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, has retained a new Korean distributor. Patagonia Korea, a Korean distribution agent owned and operated by Mr. Chun, one of Korea’s foremost climbers, will begin working with Black Diamond on March 1, 2006.

Peter Metcalf, CEO Black Diamond, anticipates a successful partnership. “Black Diamond is dynamic, but as we grow, we are holding fast to the core qualities and passions that make us a unique brand. Mr. Chun and Patagonia Korea offer a heritage that, like Black Diamond’s, is strongly rooted in climbing and skiing. Our similar perspectives and mutual respect ensure that this will be a lasting partnership.”

A climber and mountaineer, Mr. Chun understands the importance and necessity of Black Diamond climbing and skiing gear on both the business and personal levels. He originally established Patagonia Korea to distribute Patagonia’s apparel in his country, and offers familiarity with the Korean marketplace as well as its ardent outdoor community. Patagonia Korea will distribute Black Diamond’s entire line of rock climbing and backcountry skiing products, including the new Camalot C3s, AvaLung packs and O1 telemark bindings.

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee-owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. By consistently building innovative products and actively preserving the mountain environment, Black Diamond has assumed a leadership role in the international outdoor community.

January 13, 2006, (Salt Lake City, Utah)
Black Diamond To Build Ski Boot Line

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in skiing and climbing gear, announced the development of a new line of alpine touring and telemark ski boots. This is a logical step for Black Diamond (BD), which has been both SCARPA’s North American distributor as well as its primary driver in terms of telemark ski boot designs and concepts for eighteen years. SCARPA and Black Diamond terminated their partnership as of January 1, 2006, with Black Diamond assuming responsibility of the SCARPA boot line until the end of the current ski season.

Peter Metcalf, CEO/co-founder of Black Diamond explains, "BD designs and builds products that make a difference in the day to day existence of skiers and climbers.” Metcalf continues, “In the case of ski boots, we will draw on our vast experience as intimate users, innovative designers, and as a reliable, ethical and committed partner to our dealers in order to design a new standard of AT and Telemark boots to meet the needs of the modern day telemark and off-piste skier.”

Black Diamond has already assembled a specialized design team that has been actively working on the boot project for over six months. BD plans to show boots at Winter Market 2007, for release the following Fall season (Winter 2007–2008). Led by Thomas Laakso, Ski Group Category Manager and Dave Narajowski, lead designer of many of BD’s successful products, the BD Boot Team is comprised of Andi Lachinger, Jake Hall, Jeremy Saxton, Paul Terry and Alex Holzberger. This group brings a “Chop Shop” tenacity, resourcefulness and diverse work experience ranging from the biomechanics of skis and ski boots, to alias surface modeling, high performance footwear and auto design. Specifically, Lachinger worked with Atomic as their ski boot product manager, and BootDoc—which develops high-end custom ski boot footbeds and liner solutions in Europe. Hall brings previous experience from Rome Snowboards, Saxton worked at Nike, Terry hails from Porsche Designs and Holzberger developed Roces speed skates.

Metcalf explains, “This is a huge investment for BD, but one that we are excited to make because we see opportunity to raise the bar in terms of product and the performance it delivers. BD is the only player in the tele/AT boot market with designers who are an integral and organic part of the backcountry ski community, dawn patrolling each day before work. Such levels of intimacy and passion are terrific sources of creativity and
inspiration. You can feel the energy level of this project radiating through all parts of BD."

November 10, 2005 (Salt Lake City, Utah)
Black Diamond Acquires Anker Climbing Equipment

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, has acquired the big wall climbing assets of Anker Climbing Equipment (ACE), the premier manufacturer of portaledges and big wall necessities.

“We are thrilled to have come to an agreement with Conrad and to bring ACE into the Black Diamond family,” explains Peter Metcalf, CEO of Black,Diamond. Metcalf continues “This move is primarily focused on building truly innovative products for the core wall climber and servicing this market. The origins of big wall climbing and BD are inseparably intertwined dating back to early 60s with removable chro-moly pitons, RURPs and the Yosemite Hammer. We see this acquisition as another example of Black Diamond’s commitment to climbing in all its disciplines.”

Conrad Anker, who was BD Retail’s assistant manager for several years in the early 1990s, will re-join Black Diamond as a consultant/technical advisor through 2008. Anker comments, “This is the next logical progression for ACE in terms of partnering with the deep pool of engineering expertise, manufacturing and distribution resources that Black Diamond provides. I am excited to formalize, once again, our working relationship and contribute to
the R&D process for years to come.”

Anker Climbing Equipment, LLC was created when Anker acquired the A5 Ledge assets from The North Face in 2002, and will continue to exist under Anker’s ownership. Black Diamond will integrate manufacturing and marketing of current ACE products starting January 2006, displaying them at the Winter Market Outdoor Retailer and ISPO Shows respectively. Product delivery is expected by April 1, 2006.

Refinements of the big wall equipment line, utilizing design ideas that BD has been developing, are expected as ACE products are integrated into BD’s existing wall category. Products will be warehoused in Black Diamond’s Salt Lake City and Basel, Switzerland warehouses making them immediately available for climbers worldwide. Financial details of the acquisitions were not disclosed.

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee-owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. By consistently building innovative products and actively preserving the mountain environment, Black Diamond has assumed a leadership role in the international outdoor community. Check out this and our other websites for more information on Black Diamond and the company's family of brands, including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Footwear.

September 29, 2005 (Salt Lake City, Utah)
Black Diamond and Friends Raise Over $35,000 for the Utah Avalanche Center

Black Diamond, a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, welcomed nearly 800 local skiers at its 12th Annual fundraising party for the Utah Avalanche Center. Together, the group raised more than $35,000 for the organization that provides daily avalanche advisories and warnings, mountain weather forecasts and avalanche education for the Wasatch Front and beyond.

The unofficial kick off to ski season, this year’s party featured live music from Zion Tribe, beer from Uinta Brewing Company and dinner by Barbacoa. Black Diamond thanks everyone who attended and participated in the event, including the Byrne family and the local artists and community members who donated silent auction items.

Bruce Tremper, Director of the Utah Avalanche Center, was pleased with the fundraiser. "Black Diamond not only makes critical equipment for the backcountry, it also selflessly supports organizations like ours. Knowing that we’ve got such a strong community backing our work makes me proud to record the advisory each winter morning.”

Colleen Graham Nipkow, Black Diamond’s Senior Marketing Manager and Director of the Friends of the Utah Avalanche Center, commented on the importance of the annual fundraiser. "Because of Federal funding cuts have threatened the Utah Avalanche Center, our local skiers and riders have taken it upon themselves to help raise necessary funds. This event is the manifestation of how individuals and local businesses can really make a difference.”

September 14, 2005—Salt Lake City, Utah
Black Diamond Expands, Enhancing Efficiency and Innovation

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, recently created ten new middle and upper level positions to enhance innovation and streamline efficiencies. Black Diamond’s recent growth, and confidence in its continued growth, has led to the hiring of talented, experienced professionals whose passions are in line with those that define the company—climbing and skiing.

Innovation is Black Diamond’s driver, and thus, two new development positions have been added. As Senior Softgoods Product Developer, David Schipper, brings a wealth of design experience to Black Diamond. Most recently the president of Outdoor Labs, an independent consulting firm, Schipper has designed outerwear for the North Face, underwear for Smartwool and packs for Salomon. A skier and alpinist who’s lived, worked and climbed around the world, Schipper comes to BD following an attempt on K2.

Working closely with both the design teams and key vendors, Chris Pietrzak, who has taken Black Diamond’s newest development position, will refine and bring to market a range of new helmets, ski poles and trekking poles. Formerly with Specialized, USA, Pietrzak is a competitive skier and cyclist.

Efficiency is Black Diamond’s sustainer, and the four new positions dedicated to streamlining procedures will ensure that it remains so. Lauri Wilder will serve as Black Diamond’s Demand Manager, a position that will tap into her expertise in global sales forecasting and supply chain synchronization. An avid runner and climber, Lauri comes to Black Diamond from Petzl, USA.

As Black Diamond’s Technical Operations Engineer, Mike Musenbrock is tasked with process and quality improvement for various production methodologies. A climber and skier most recently at Graco, Inc., Musenbrock’s considerable experience in high volume advanced machining operations makes him perfect for the job.

Matt Sutton joins Black Diamond as a Process Engineer with focuses on evaluating and improving finishing procedures and enhancing production of the AvaLung. Sutton’s background in Mechanical Engineering, as well as his dedication to skiing and climbing, prepared him for his new role at Black Diamond.

Black Diamond’s Management Information Systems Director, Josh Dees, is responsible for developing the computer infrastructure that supports Black Diamond. Dees is an active climber who managed the Climb Time Rock Gym in Ohio before moving West. Dees also served as a shop supervisor at Black Diamond in the mid-1990s, directing the production of ice axes and crampons. After leaving BD to develop software for Boeing, Dees returns with extensive software architectural and implementation experience.

Software Developer, Brent Woods, is charged with implementing and testing software applications to support Black Diamond’s growing business needs. He was most recently an Educational Software Developer at The Waterford School. Woods is a passionate snowboarder—both on and off piste.

In Europe, Black Diamond has added two positions to support double-digit growth in sales. A gifted climber and boulderer who regularly sends 5.13, Kathi Krause comes to Black Diamond Europe from the marketing department of Berghaus in the United Kingdom. As European PR Coordinator, Krause is tasked with building Black Diamond’s presence in various countries, including Spain, Italy, Sweden and Norway.

As European Sales Manager, David Ledouble will put to use the skills he honed over 10 years as the International Sales Manager for Julbo. With a degree in International Sales from Strasbourg Business School, Ledouble spends his winters skiing, his summers alpine climbing and all seasons chasing after his two young sons.

Andre Otto hails from the former East German city of Thuringen, and comes to Black Diamond Europe as an accounting wiz and a dedicated climber. While assisting the European Controller, Michel Silbernagel, with ITS systems, Otto will spend a month learning the ropes at BD Headquarters in Salt Lake City.

August 22, 2005—Salt Lake City, Utah
Black Diamond Hosts the 12th Annual Utah Avalanche Center Benefit

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, along with local brewer, the Uinta Brewing Company, are sponsoring the twelfth annual fund-raiser party to benefit the Utah Avalanche Center (UAC). Slated for 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 22nd at Black Diamond in Salt Lake City, the festivities will include dinner from Barbacoa Mexican Grill, the music of Zion Tribe and a silent auction featuring generous donations from various outdoor manufacturers.

“The Annual UAC Fund Raiser is the celebration of the Wasatch backcountry skiing community,” explains Colleen Graham, Friends of the UAC President and Marketing Operations Director at Black Diamond. “It brings everyone together, triggers ski dreams across the Wasatch and marks a collective mental shift from summer climbing and biking mindsets to skiing mentality.”

The Utah Avalanche Center is responsible for providing daily avalanche advisories for the Wasatch Front. Federal funding cuts force the Center to run on a season-by-season basis, and fortunately the Center has been able to operate for the past ten years due to the community response by backcountry users and local and national businesses. “ The UAC Fundraiser is a key component to our season,” explains Bruce Tremper, Director of the UAC. “For years, Black Diamond has spearheaded this effort and raised significant
dollars that contribute to the Friends of the Avalanche Center, which in turn funds forecasting and educational programs.”

Tickets are $30 per person if purchased by September 10th ($35 at the door). Buying an advance ticket will enter you into the raffle. Advance tickets are available at the Black Diamond Retail Store (2084 East 3900 South). All proceeds will be donated to the Utah Avalanche Center. For additional information, contact Colleen Graham at Black Diamond Equipment – 801-365-5522.

July 27, 2005, Salt Lake City, UT
American Mountain Guides Association presents 2005 Industry Award to Black Diamond Equipment, Ltd.

– Black Diamond Equipment, Ltd. is the 2005 recipient of the American Mountain Guides Association’s Industry Award. AMGA Executive Director Mike Alkaitis will present the award to Peter Metcalf, CEO of Black Diamond, at this August’s Outdoor Retailer Show.

“This is a wonderful honor and one that is greatly appreciated because it is in recognition of our most core value - being one with the sports we serve (and) giving back by championing them.” Metcalf said. “The AMGA, leading & representing America's professional climbing & skiing guiding community, plays an integral role in nurturing our life defining sports, hence why we are so proud.”

The Industry Award is presented annually to the outdoor company that has shown outstanding support through scholarships, products and sponsorships of professional American mountain guides. Black Diamond has partnered with the AMGA to provide product and educational support for the past eight years. In 2001, Black Diamond established a scholarship for guides pursuing AMGA certification courses and exams. The scholarship provides essential opportunities for mountain guides seeking training and certification in the United States. Black Diamond is at the highest level of AMGA Sponsorship, and has provided money to subsidize Rock Guide Exams in 2005. This financial support has helped several guides realize their goal of becoming AMGA certified.

“I am excited to present this award to Black Diamond for their consistent support of American mountain guides. This award is a small token of our appreciation to Black Diamond for their exceptional partnership with the American Mountain Guides Association, “ said Alkaitis.

The American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) is a 501 (C) (3) non-profit organization that represents the interests of American Mountain guides by providing support, education, and standards. The AMGA is the sole US representative of the International Federation of Mountain Guides Association (IFMGA). The AMGA offers training and assessment for rock climbing, alpine climbing, and ski-mountaineering guides in the areas of leadership, judgment, client care, technical expertise, rescue, and environmental consciousness, and certifies those individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and ability in each of these areas. For more information please visit www.amga.com

July 21, 2005, Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Bouldering Emerges From Franklin Climbing Equipment

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, has integrated Franklin Climbing Equipment into the Black Diamond brand. With the integration, Black Diamond feels it can more efficiently build, develop and market specific, high-end bouldering gear. The shift will allow Black Diamond to hone its focus and efforts on fostering a complete climbing brand.

Chris Grover, Black Diamond National Sales Manager, is enthusiastic about the shift. "Bouldering is a central discipline in the climbing world, and Black Diamond is and always has been about all climbing disciplines. We view BD as an inclusive brand that appeals to all climbers, no matter what their discipline, and thus BD Bouldering will serve the former Franklin consumers."

To increase Black Diamond Bouldering’s global and urban appeal, the company has turned to Switzerland-based Mike Tscharner and Tomas Hodel, both well known boulders and designers, to drive development of future bouldering products.

July 15, 2005, Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond and SCARPA End 18-Year Alliance

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, and SCARPA, an international leader in mountain footwear, announced the termination of their longtime working relationship at the end of 2005.

Peter Metcalf, CEO & Co-Founder of Black Diamond explains, “Over the past 18 years, Black Diamond together with SCARPA have brought true innovation to the market and as a result have dramatically evolved the sports we serve. We are immensely proud of that.” Metcalf continues, “At the same time, the marketplace is evolving and both BD and SCARPA realize the partnership that led to our past success is not the best path for the future. Thus, we agreed to terminate amicably.”

Andrea Parisotto, the new President of SCARPA North America, Inc., comments, “We believe in the North American market and hope to better recognize and serve their specific demands. SCARPA will open SCARPA North America Inc. in Boulder, Colorado effective immediately. Boulder’s access to the mountains and availability of industry veterans will complement SCARPA NA’s vision of quality service and product design to meet NA’s needs.” Chris Clark has been chosen as Sales and Marketing Manager for SCARPA NA. Clark has extensive experience, including retail work at Neptune Mountaineering and field and consulting experience with Black Diamond and Backcountry Access.

The change will begin immediately with SCARPA NA assuming all sales responsibilities for the Spring 2006 SCARPA line, which will be shown at OR Summer Market August 2005. As always the SCARPA booth will be directly adjacent to Black Diamond. For Winter 2005/06 Black Diamond will continue to sell and service the complete SCARPA line through the end of the ski season in April 2006. “Both parties have mutual respect for one another and realize the importance of finishing strong in terms of backing retailers and consumers,” explains Metcalf. “Our commitment to and service of the core market remains our number one priority.”

SCARPA is an internationally recognized leader in outdoor footwear, specializing in skiing and climbing innovation. SCARPA North America will extend and complement its international presence with a focused sales and design team aimed particularly at North America. Visit us at www.scarpanorthamerica.com.

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April 6, 2005, Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Hosts Benefit for Salt Lake Climbers’ Alliance

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, will host a party and fundraiser for the Salt Lake Climbers’ Alliance (SLCA) on May 19th at its Salt Lake City campus (2084 East 3900 South). Black Diamond recently became a Corporate Partner of the SLCA, which is a non-profit organization that “exists to promote climbing opportunities, preserve local access and encourage stewardship of the environment.” The party will serve as both a venue for local climbers to meet one another, as well as an opportunity for local and state politicians to discuss climbing access issues. Tickets are $12 until May 15th, and $15 after. Advance tickets are available at the Black Diamond Retail Store (2092 East 3900 South) starting April 18th.

Prior to the party, which will take place from 6:00 to 10:00 pm on Thursday May 19th Rockreation Rock Gym (on site) will host an all ages climbing competition from 3:30 pm to 7:30 pm (competition prizes will be awarded during the party at 8:00 pm). Tickets for the competition are $8 in advance and $10 on the 19th, and are available only at Rockreation. While the competition offers prizes for the top three finishers in each of three categories—beginner, intermediate, and open—the main goal is to encourage climbers to meet one another. Competitors under the age of 18 must have a waiver signed by a parent. For more information on the comp, call Rockreation at 801/278-7473.

For more information on the Salt Lake Climbers’ Alliance, visit www.saltlakeclimbers.org or email slca@saltlakeclimbers.org.

April 5, 2004, Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Lets the Sun Shine In—BD Partners with SEI to Install Solar Panels

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, and an Environmental Protection Agency Green Power Partner, announced collaborative effort with Solar Energy International (SEI) to install solar panels on its retail store. In an upcoming Photovoltaic Design and Installation Class, SEI students will learn how to determine optimal sites for solar panels, size systems appropriately and specify components to fit electricity needs. The course’s final project requires students to install a 2200-watt grid-tied system on Black Diamond’s retail store.

Black Diamond CEO Peter Metcalf comments, "Installing solar panels on our retail store is one of several ways we at Black Diamond practice what we preach in terms of preserving mountain, crag and canyon environments."

Last January, Black Diamond became one of Utah’s first major manufacturers to be powered by wind. Its wind power commitment will double every year until 2007, and in one year alone reduced the amount of CO2 emissions released by over 111 tons. Black Diamond’s efforts are important in a state where nearly ninety-five percent of power is coal-generated. Coal fire power plants, which account for nearly 40 percent of the nation's mercury pollution, produce hundreds of thousands of tons of CO2 emissions, which contribute to global warming.

Metcalf continues, “As an employee-owned company of climbers and skiers, we want to actively preserve the exceptional powder skiing and ice climbing that defines our backyard, the Wasatch Range. Global Warming is a significant threat to both our livelihoods and our passions."

According to Ashley Patterson of the Green Building Center, co-sponsor of the workshop, "It's refreshing to see a company that makes its profits by manufacturing gear for people to enjoy outdoors take active responsibility in maintaining the health of the environment. Kudos to Black Diamond for putting their money where their mouth is."

Solar Energy International is a nonprofit organization that has been providing training programs in renewable energy around the world since 1981. The upcoming Salt Lake City workshop is co-sponsored by the Utah Energy Office, which has a strong renewable energy commitment and hopes to provide training to interested local residents, and the Green Building Center, which offers consultation on natural building materials and renewable energy technologies.

March 10, 2005, Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Sponsors HERA for 2005

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, has announced its sponsorship of the 4th Annual HERA (Health Empowerment, Research and Advocacy) Ovarian Cancer Climb for Life. Black Diamond will once again host the Salt Lake City event on its campus from September 15-18, and will support the REI Road Tour events by sending world-renowned climbers to conduct climbing clinics, provide climbing tips and raffle off Black Diamond climbing gear.

"Building awareness of Ovarian cancer is critical, and the more women we educate with knowledge of symptoms, the more lives we save," says HERA founder and ovarian cancer survivor Sean Patrick. "Ovarian cancer caught in its early stages has a 90% survival rate, yet only 24% of cases are caught early. If caught late, the chance of five-year survival drops to less than 25%."

Presented by Black Diamond, the HERA Climb for Life REI Road Tour will take place in 16 stores and 39 rock gyms, including: Denver, Bloomington, Encinitas, Seattle, Portland and Fairfax. The event kicks off in Denver, Bloomington, Encinitas and Seattle with a climbing clinic on April 13 at 7 pm, and the climbing weekend following on April 15-17. Portland kicks off on April 14, and the climbing weekend follows from April 15-17. Fairfax kicks off on April 20, with the climbing weekend on April 22-24. Black Diamond is sending Kim Csizmazia to Seattle and Fairfax, Steph Davis to Denver, Tiffany Campbell to Portland, Kitty Calhoun to Bloomington and Heidi Wirtz to Encinitas. Registration begins March 13 at participating REI stores and at www.rei.com/climbforlife.

The mission of the HERA Women's Cancer Foundation is to empower women to take control of their health, scientists to seek new directions in ovarian cancer research and communities to provide support. Last year’s HERA events raised over $120,000, benefiting research for early detection and new treatments of ovarian cancer. The HERA Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) not for profit organization. 90% of the money raised goes to research, awareness and to provide support. HERA is named for the Greek goddess who was a protector of women and challenger of the status quo. It is also an acronym for Women's Health, Empowerment, Research and Advocacy. Learn more at http://ovariancancer.jhmi.edu/climb/.

January 17, 2005, Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Athletes Ascend to Victory at 10th Annual Ouray Ice Festival

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, announced today that its climbers dominated the Ouray Ice Festival Competition for the third year in a row. Ines Papert (GER) and Will Gadd (CAN) stunned the crowds as they gracefully toped out on the steep mixed competition route. Papert was the only woman to reach the route’s anchors, finishing in the competition’s fastest time of 19:53. Gadd, one of two men to complete the challenging line, stuck the top in 22:47.

Other Black Diamond competitors included Abby Watkins (CAN), Sean Isaac (CAN) and Adam Stack (USA). Black Diamond Category Manager for Climbing Hardware, Bill Belcourt, commented on the success of the team. “It’s obvious how dedicated they are, how seriously they take the competition and how much they train.” Regarding Papert’s and Gadd’s success, Belcourt continues, “On-sight ability is very important, and this competition brings out how phenomenal both climbers are at that.”

Thousands of on-lookers, festival participants and climbers attended the events over the weekend. Erin Eddy, festival director and manager of the Ice Park commented, “This was an awesome event, maybe the best one ever. The slide shows were rad; the fashion show was great. Many thanks to everyone who worked to make it such a success.”

January 12, 2005, Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Supports Tsunami Survivors

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, announced its support of tsunami survivors by providing both monetary donations and product to those in devastated areas.

“Much like the mountain and wilderness environments that benefit from Black Diamond’s support and contributions, today millions of tsunami survivors desperately need lifesaving aid,” comments Peter Metcalf, CEO of Black Diamond (BD) who continues, “Donations are urgently needed, and every penny raised will ultimately help in the delivery and distribution of air shipments of medicine and additional aid for Southeast Asia. ”Black Diamond, working with the Outdoor Industry Association and AmeriCares, will contribute by allowing employees to make a one-time payroll deduction with 100% of their monetary donation going to support those devastated areas. Additionally, BD has pledged to donate approximately $1,000 in cash and product (including headlamps and Megamid shelters) for relief efforts in Southeast Asia, and BD Mail Order has pledged to donate a percentage of its profits from the sale of seasonal promotional products.

“We chose to supplement our company donations with the opportunity for employees to participate as well because true activism starts with the individual,” continues Metcalf. “Supporting worthy causes and having an impact is a core philosophy that is central to Black Diamond as an employee-owned company.”

November 12, 2004, Salt Lake City, UT
ISMC World Cup Returns For 3rd Annual Black Diamond Wasatch PowderKeg

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing, skiing and backcountry gear, announced the return of the International Ski Mountaineering World Cup with the 3rd Annual Black Diamond Wasatch PowderKeg. Slated for Saturday March 19, 2005, the Black Diamond PowderKeg is a backcountry ski race that links Alta Ski Area to Brighton, along the fabled crest of the Wasatch Mountains. “In just three years, the PowderKeg has established itself as the premier race in North America,” states Race Director Butch Adams, who continues, “It’s the only stop on the International Ski Mountaineering Council (ISMC) World Cup Tour in North America, attracting an international field, and is a tribute to our local backcountry community. Basically, it’s just a radical race.”

Sponsored by Patagonia, SCARPA, Ski Utah and the Utah Travel Council, the Black Diamond PowderKeg hosts three categories of racers, Recreational, Racing and World Cup. Skiers skin uphill and descend from Alta to Brighton by way of Twin Lakes Pass, tracing the crest of the Wasatch Range. The PowderKeg is one of six stops on the World Cup Tour and is a sanctioned Singles (as opposed to team) event. The ISMC is currently petitioning the Olympic Committee for inclusion for the 2010 Winter Games in Vancouver. “Ski Mountaineering continues to grow and gain support both here in North America and Internationally,” explains ISMC Judge Andrew McLean, who along with Adams designed the PowderKeg course. “The PowderKeg is a stellar event as it brings the best racers worldwide to compete alongside some spirited locals in a great ski community.” Additional sponsors include Alta, Brighton, Solitude, Air Med, Sports Guide, Backcountry and Couloir Magazines.

The course covers both in bounds and out of bounds terrain, with the Racing Divisions getting the bonus terrain of a steep couloir descent off of Black Bess/Honeycomb Ridge before a mandatory boot up an adjacent gulley. Total distance for the Recreational Division is 5.77 miles with 3,550 feet of ascent and 3,352 feet of descent. The World Cup and Racing Division covers 8.39 miles with 5,413 feet of ascent and 5,102 feet of descent. The altitude ranges from 8,251 feet to 11,000 feet. For more information or to register go to: www.bdel.com/powderkeg/index.html

November 8, 2004—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Turbo Charges Design, Engineering and Manufacturing with Newly Created Positions

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing, skiing and backcountry gear, announced a handful of new hires and newly created positions to further strengthen its product management, award winning design and manufacturing efficiency.

“In the past several months, Black Diamond has reorganized and expanded our manufacturing and design engineering area to take us to the next level as a lean manufacturer and catapult designs more efficiently into manufacturing,” states Peter Metcalf, CEO. “We have added new positions to augment our talented staff, promoted from within and filled vacancies, as in the case for SCARPA. We see this continued commitment to excellence as critical to our success as a Utah based manufacturer and global leader in outdoor retail markets.”

Paul Terry has been hired to head up the newly created position of Senior Industrial Designer. Terry’s background includes work as Senior Designer at Porsche Styling and previously Nissan Design International, as well as design work with Amp Bicycles, Core Bicycle Components and Birdhouse Skateboards. Terry is an avid skier and climber.

In Engineering and Support Services, Bill Reiman has been promoted to the new post of Director of Project Engineering. Reiman’s primary responsibility will be introducing new projects and automation to manufacturing.

Two new engineers, James Grutta and Wendy Langan, will join Reiman and his colleagues. Grutta joins BD from Delphi where he optimized designs for the auto industry. Langan specialized in planning and process engineering for Hershey Chocolate. Both Grutta and Langan are backcountry skiers and moved to BD in order to work in an atmosphere that incorporates their passion.

Mark Vent has joined Black Diamond filling the new position of Director of Manufacturing Operations. Vent joins BD after twenty-five plus years as a business consultant with lean manufacturing and implementing 6 Sigma. Joining Vent is Nick Rueff, who formerly worked at Toyota manufacturing. Rueff will assume the role as Line Engineer for sewn goods and the ice line.

Stepping into the newly created position of Director of Performance Lightware is Anna Martens. Martens’ previous experience includes work at Williams Controls, Inc., where she was the international account manager of throttle controls for Volvo, Renault, Mack and DAF Trucks. Anna previously consulted with K2 Women’s Telemark and developed markets beyond outdoor for Leatherman Tool Group.

Roch Horton “returns” to Black Diamond as the SCARPA Business Manager. A former Chouinard Equipment employee, who left in 1989 to rep for Patagonia, Horton has long been a part of the extended BD family. Most recently the Manager of the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center, Roch is a talented musician, ultra runner, skier and mountaineer.

October 6, 2004, Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Helps Raise Over $30,000 for the Utah Avalanche Forecast Center

Black Diamond Equipment a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, and Uinta Brewing hosted Black Diamond's Eleventh Annual Utah Avalanche Center Fundraising Party. The annual fundraiser has become "the fall community happening,” a time when backcountry users get together in anticipation of winter.

“This year we had over 750 people attend and Black Diamond successfully raised over $30,000 for the Center,” commented Colleen Graham, Director of the Friends of the Utah Avalanche Center (UAC). Graham continues on the importance of the UAC, “the Center is responsible for providing daily avalanche advisories for the Wasatch Front. While federal funding cuts have caused the Center to run on a season-by-season basis, the community has responded to help raise necessary funds for the past ten years. It’s a great event that underscores the effort of individual users, local and national businesses.”

As the unofficial kick off to the winter season, the outdoor event featured live music, a silent auction, Uinta Brewing Company beverages and dinner by Rico Mexican Market. Bruce Tremper, Director of the UAC comments, "Black Diamond is the epitome of a socially responsible outdoor manufacturer. They not only make great equipment for the backcountry, but they support the organizations that help keep their customers alive. Every fall when I see all those people who turn out to support us and the selfless effort of Black Diamond employees, it nearly brings tears to my eyes. When I record the advisory each winter morning, I see all those people on the other end listening. That's what keeps us going and doing the best damn job we can."

Additional national and local sponsors include Alta Ski Lifts, Alta Lodge, Alf Wear, Alta Peruvian Lodge, Backcountry.com, Backcountry Access, Barbacoa, Brighton Ski Resort, Cafe Diablo, The Canyons, Cascade Designs, Castle Peak Yurt, Cloudveil, Couloir Magazine, Cove Heath & Fitness, Dakine, Dale of Norway, Deer Valley Resort, G3, Gastronomy, The Green Building Center, Grivel North America, Isis, K2 Telemark, Kirkham's, Liberty Mountain, Life-Link Backcountry, Lizard Lips, Lone Peak Designs, Marker USA, Metolius, Mountain Hardwear, NIKE ACG, Ortovox USA, Outdoor Utah Vacation Guide, Park City Mtn. Resort, Park City Powder Cats, The Patagonia Outlet, Petzl, Polartec, REI, Remington Furniture Co., Rivers Restaurant, Residence Inn Cottonwood, Rockreation, Alta's Rustler Lodge, Sai-Sommet Restaurant, Scott USA, Silver Fork Lodge, Sierra Designs, Ski Utah, Smith Sport Optics, Snowbasin, Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort, Snowclaw International, Solitude Mtn. Resort, Tushar Mountain Tours, Voile, Vortex Backpacks, Wasatch Touring, Washington School Inn, Wild Rose Wintersteiger, White Pine Touring, Xcel Spa & Fitness. Local artists Chris Noble, BK Images, Butch Adams, Kokopelli's Garden, Bob Merrill, Nicole Morgenthau, Mike Libecki, John Collins, P Richar Images, Stuart Ruckman, Tom Jones, Howie Garber & Thomas Chandler all donated pieces of artwork to the silent auction.

The Friends of the Utah Avalanche Center is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. If you wish to make a tax-deductible contribution, it can be sent to: Colleen Graham, Friends of the Utah Avalanche Center, 2084 East 3900 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84124; phone: 801/365-5522. www.avalanche.org

October 4, 2004, Salt Lake City, UT
HERA Draws Record Numbers to Salt Lake City—Over 200 Attend Climb For Life

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, welcomed over 200 participants and volunteers to the 3rd Annual HERA (Health Empowerment, Research and Advocacy) Ovarian Cancer Climb for Life in September. This year’s event raised over $100,000, benefiting research for early detection and new treatments of ovarian cancer.

"It is amazing how far we have come in just over 2 years and 3 events,” said Sean Patrick, HERA Founder and Ovarian Cancer Survivor. “Without the support of our industry sponsors, including event angel Black Diamond and media sponsor Climbing magazine, we would not have been able to grow so fast. This year, support from over 40 industry sponsors is allowing us to give away over 90% of the money we raise. With their support, we are helping to raise awareness for ovarian cancer and helping to save women's lives."

In addition to the Salt Lake City Climb for Life event, HERA also encompasses several satellite events, which enable women and men around the country to get involved at their local crags or gyms. Since HERA’s inception in 2001, events have taken or will take place in Las Vegas, West Virginia, British Columbia, the Tetons, on the McMurdo Station in Antarctica as well as on the road with the REI Road Tour (www.rei.com/rei/climbforlife) and the Hundred for HERA mission (www.hundred4hera.org). The 4th Annual Climb for Life is scheduled for September 15-18, 2005 in Salt Lake City.

The mission of the HERA Women's Cancer Foundation is to empower women to take control of their health, scientists to seek new directions in ovarian cancer research and communities to provide support. The HERA Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) not for profit organization. No salaries are paid, board members pay their own way so that at least 90% of the money raised goes to research, awareness and to provide support. HERA is named for the Greek goddess who was a protector of women and shook up the status quo. It is also an acronym for Women's Health, Empowerment, Research and Advocacy.

September 27, 2004—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Hosts the 11th Annual Utah Avalanche Center Benefit Party

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, announced the dates of the 11th Annual Utah Avalanche Center (UAC) Fundraiser, Thursday, September 16, 2004 at 6 PM. The benefit will take place at Black Diamond, 2084 East 3900 South, Salt Lake City, Utah.

“Black Diamond realizes the importance and need for avalanche forecasting and education locally,” explains Bruce Tremper, Director of the UAC. “The event raises around $35,000 each season for the Friends of the Utah Avalanche Center. All the money is spent on avalanche forecasting and avalanche education in Utah. The Utah avalanche community is indebted to Black Diamond's farsighted participation in their local avalanche center.”

With the smell of burning P-Tex in the autumn evening air, the UAC benefit is a rite of passage for Wasatch powder hounds with festivities including beer donated by Uinta Brewing Company, food from Rico Mexican Market and bluegrass music by Mr. Whoopie.

Tickets are $30 per person if purchased by September 11th ($35 at the door). Buying an advance ticket (available at Black Diamond Retail at above location) will enter you in the raffle. Additionally, there is a silent auction offering great deals on gear for a terrific cause. All proceeds will be donated to the Utah Avalanche Center. For additional information, contact Colleen Graham at Black Diamond Equipment—801-365-5522.

July 19 , 2004—Salt Lake City, UT
HERA Climb for Life Reaches New Heights in Year Three

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, welcomes the third annual HERA Ovarian Cancer Climb for Life, September 16-19, 2004 to its corporate campus. The event raises awareness of ovarian cancer and its symptoms while uniting women and families who have struggled with the disease. A fundraiser, event proceeds will benefit research for early detection and new directions in the treatment of ovarian cancer. Past grants have been awarded to scientists at Johns Hopkins and MD Anderson Cancer Center.

“Building awareness of this form of cancer is critical, and the more women we educate with knowledge of ovarian cancer symptoms, the more lives we save,” says HERA founder and ovarian cancer survivor Sean Patrick. “Ovarian cancer caught in its early stages has a 90% survival rate, yet only 24% of cases are caught early. If caught late, the chance of five-year survival drops to less than 25%.”

Since its inception in 2001, HERA has grown considerably and now encompasses several satellite events, which enable women and men around the country to be involved with the Climb for Life. This year’s events take place in the Tetons and Las Vegas as well as on the road with the second annual REI Road Tour and the Hundred for HERA mission.

“We look forward to the Climb For Life every year with great anticipation and excitement, and can’t think of a better reason to host over 140 climbers at our favorite local crags,” quoted Maile Buker, Director of Marketing and Direct Sales for Black Diamond. “Sean Patrick is a great mentor to me personally, and truly an inspiration to all. We feel honored to be able to bring in BD climbers such as Kim Csizmazia, Abby Watkins and Tiff Campbell, and contribute logistics and facility support to this incredible week of climbing, parties and films.”

The HERA (Health, Empowerment, Research & Advocacy) Foundation is a registered 501 (c) 3, whose mission is to stop the loss of mothers, daughters, wives, sisters and girlfriends from ovarian cancer by empowering women to take control of their health, the medical community to find new directions in ovarian cancer research and communities to provide support. For more information visit www.ovariancancer.jhmi.edu/climb.

March 24, 2004—Salt Lake City, UT
Official Race Results for the 2nd Annual Black Diamond Wasatch PowderKeg

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, hosted the first International Ski Mountaineering Council World Cup Event in North America, this past Saturday March 20, in a point-to-point style race from Alta to Brighton Ski areas. Under blue bird skies and with spring temperatures rising, over 140 competitors ascended and descended multiple peaks with European racers setting new standards for speed and efficiency.

Sponsored by Patagonia, SCARPA, Ski Utah and the Utah Travel Council, the Black Diamond Wasatch PowderKeg served as the third and final stop on this year’s World Cup Tour for singles (as opposed to teams) racing. Ski Mountaineering is an emerging sport and is currently being considered to become an Olympic Sport at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games.

Race Director Butch Adams summed it up, “We had a fantastic spring day, a super strong field of athletes and an excellent course and crew of volunteers.” International Ski Mountaineering Council Delegate Jordi Canals concurred, stating, “Last year, at the inaugural PowderKeg, I was very impressed. This year it was even better and very good for the international ski mountaineering community.”

Three Divisions, World Cup, Race and Recreational left Alta at 7 AM to a bagpiper’s call to the high hills, finishing at Brighton with a festive barbeque and refreshments. The World Cup category was dominated by the Swiss, with Rico Elmer winning the Men’s Division in 1:34:44, and Christina Favre-Moretti crossing the line first at 1:56:12. The Italians claimed the second spot on the podium in both Men’s and Women’s with Manfred Reichegger (1:36:27) and Gloria Pellisier (2:00:19) while the French tied up both third spots with Cedrik Tomio (1:37:50) and Nathalie Bourillon (2:04:28). Patagonia athlete Jeannie Wall, of Bozeman, MT finished 4th overall in the Women’s category just over a minute out at 2:05:34. Brendan O’Neill, the top US male, took an unfortunate wrong turn, costing him valuable time yet still finishing a respectable 20th overall in the Men’s World Cup field at 2:04:16.

In the Men’s Race Division Crested Butte local Ethan Passant (1:56:40) edged last year’s winner Chris Kroger (1:57:55). Third place went to Pete Swenson (2:02:17). In the Women’s Race Division, Petra Pirc, of Jemez Springs, NM, (2:33:42) topped the field, followed by Monique Merrill (2:44:10) and Polly Samuels (2:48:34). Recreational winners were Matt Turley (1:26:47), Brian Hoskins (1:42:07) and Darren McAvoy (1:42:32) respectively; the top women were Black Diamond-sponsored Leslie Ross (2:02:13), Laynee Jones (2:11:41) and Susie Sutphin (2:12:58). For full results and images go HERE.

Patagonia, with a 30-year history of designing and developing technical outdoor clothing, is widely known for its commitment to product quality and environmental responsibility, designing its fleece garments with recycled soda bottles and, since 1996, using only organic fibers in its cotton products. Recently recognized by Outside Magazine as designing clothing worthy of their "Gear of the Year" designation, Patagonia continues to lead the outdoor industry in product development and responsible business practices.

March 18, 2004—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Sponsors AMGA Scholarship

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, announced today that it has increased its support of the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA), and will now offer an annual scholarship for guides wishing to take an AMGA course or exam.

Peter Metcalf, CEO of Black Diamond, comments, “The AMGA scholarship is illustrative of Black Diamond's overall support of grassroots organizations and causes that are integral to the vibrancy of our sport. Assisting an aspiring guide with tuition towards AMGA certification is something we are most enthusiastic about doing.”

The Black Diamond scholarship is an excellent opportunity for a guide to advance his or her career through AMGA certification. Black Diamond will provide full tuition towards any AMGA rock, alpine or ski mountaineering course or exam. The successful applicant must be an AMGA member, currently pursuing guiding as a profession, and boast a minimum of three years as a professional guide. He or she must also be currently enrolled and accepted into a scheduled 2004 AMGA course or exam.

Mike Alkaitis, Executive Director for the AMGA comments, “Black Diamond is offering a tremendous show of support for the guiding and climbing community. This scholarship is a powerful way to raise the standard of mountain guiding in the United States to the accepted international standard.”

The American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) is a 501 (C) (3) non-profit organization that represents the interests of American Mountain guides by providing support, education and standards. The AMGA is the sole US representative of the International Federation of Mountain Guides Association (IFMGA). The AMGA offers training and assessment for rock climbing, alpine climbing, and ski-mountaineering guides in the areas of leadership, judgment, client care, technical expertise, rescue, and environmental consciousness, and certifies those individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and ability in each of these areas. For more information please visit the AMGA website.

March 12, 2004—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Hires Jack Tackle and Kim Miller as Rocky Mountain Reps

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, announced the hiring of Jack Tackle and Kim Miller as Climbing Hardware Sales Representatives for the Rocky Mountain Territory.

“Like the legend of the Patagonian califate plant that says those who eat it are destined to return, we see this as a homecoming of sorts,” states Peter Metcalf, Black Diamond CEO. “Both Jack and Kim have been an intimate part of our working history. We share many of the same core values and it is a great opportunity for both parties in a key sector of the country,” Metcalf continues.

Tackle worked as a sales representative for Black Diamond Equipment starting in 1988 and moved on to rep for Patagonia in 1991. Currently living in the Tetons, Tackle has a diverse resume that combines business successes with a history of impeccable alpine ascents. Miller worked the Rockies as the Black Diamond rep throughout the 1990s and later in house for Black Diamond in Salt Lake City through mid 2003. In the mountains, Miller partnered with Tackle climbing in Alaska in 1992 for an attempt on the Elevator Shaft on Mount Johnson.

Chris Grover, Black Diamond National Sales Manager elaborates, “For sure, the territory—Wyoming, Colorado and New Mexico—is the heartland of the outdoor specialty retailer. It is a critical area for Black Diamond and we sought to have the most bullet-proof, experienced yet open-minded thinkers for this position.” Grover adds “The best part of Black Diamond, for me, is the people who I stand shoulder to shoulder with daily. Tackle and Miller may not be youngsters but they are super solid, dependable colleagues with energy, creativity, a sense of humor and renewable awe.”

March 10, 2004—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond to Expand Australian Distribution Channels Sea To Summit Named Official Distributor

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, has announced that effective July 1, 2004, Sea To Summit will become its official Australian distributor. Wishing to expand its presence to a greater number of selected Australian Retailers, this strategic business move will make available the whole of Black Diamond’s extensive line to climbers, skiers and walkers across the country.

Sea To Summit was named a Black Diamond headlamp distributor last year, and because of its success with the Brand, as well as its enthusiasm and commitment to the outdoors, the company quickly became an obvious choice to distribute Black Diamond’s entire line. The Paddy Pallin group, which has been Black Diamond Equipment’s exclusive Australian retailer since the mid-eighties, will continue to sell BD gear in its 14 retail stores, but as both Black Diamond and the Australian market have expanded and matured, a wider representation of the Brand is now essential.

Tim Macartney-Snape, Sea To Summit’s Director, anticipates a successful partnership between the two core companies. "Black Diamond is an iconic brand in the outdoor industry, it's a leader in innovation and celebrates the spirit of alpinism and its offshoots. I feel tremendous synergy between BD and Sea to Summit."

Black Diamond’s entire line will be on display at the SOTA show in Canberra in May, and later in the year, Sea To Summit will introduce the Brand on a nationwide tour. With this, Sea To Summit anticipates a swift increase in Black Diamond’s presence in retail stores as well as at the crags, on the mountains and in the deserts of the wide brown land.

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee-owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. By consistently building innovative products and actively preserving the mountain environment, Black Diamond has assumed a leadership role in the international outdoor community. For more information on Black Diamond USA, go to: www.BlackDiamondEquipment.com.
In Australia, go to:
www.seatosummit.com.au.

February 25, 2004—Salt Lake City, UT
Mugs Stump Alpine Climbing Award Winners Announced for 2004

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, announced the winners of the Mugs Stump Award for 2004. Given annually to climbers attempting alpine climbing objectives that exemplify fast, light and clean tactics, the awards are a tribute to the late Mugs Stump, one of North America’s most prolific and visionary climbers, who died in a crevasse fall in Alaska in May 1992.

Sponsored by Mountain Gear, Patagonia, W.L. Gore and Associates, Inc. and Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., the Mugs Stump Award Winners for 2004 are:

Krzsztof Belczynski and Martin Tomaszewski for their expedition to Meru Central’s Shark’s Fin (6310 meters).

David Anderson and Steve Herlihy for their trip to the unexplored Avellano Towers, Patagonia.

Chris Geisler, Scott Withers and David Edgar’s expedition to the unclimbed North Ridge of Shingu Charpu in the Nangma Valley, Pakistan.

Kevin Mahoney and Ben Gilmore for a new free line on the East Face of the Moose’s Tooth, Alaska.

Ben Sarnquist and Sean Cooney’s attempt on a mixed line on the East Face of Mount Dan Beard, Alaska.

“Mugs approached climbing as a celebration of boldness, purity and simplicity,” says Michael Kennedy, one of the founders of the award, “This year’s teams embody the same spirit and vision that fueled Mug’s dreams.”The Mugs Stump Award helps fund small teams tackling difficult climbs in the great mountains of the world. For 2004, a total of $12,000 was awarded to the five expeditions all of which are encouraged to leave no trace of their passage. For more information on the Mugs Stump Award visit www.patagonia.com or www.bdel.com. Applications due December 31 each year with the awards announced in February.

Sponsored by Mountain Gear, Patagonia, W.L. Gore and Associates, Inc. and Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., the Mugs Stump Award is a grant program for a new generation of climbers who continue to draw both inspiration and sustenance from the memory of Mugs Stump. Best-known for his unrepeated, first ascent of the Emperor Face on Mount Robson in the Canadian Rockies and his triptych of brilliant Alaskan climbs—the East face of the Moose’s Tooth, the Moonflower Buttress on Mount Hunter, and a one-day solo of Denali’s Cassin Ridge—Mugs was a myriad-minded climber and seeker after a higher truth beyond the physical manifestations of climbing.

February 23, 2004—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond PowderKeg Changes Course For World Cup Ski Mountaineering Championship

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, announced the final course for the 2004 Black Diamond PowderKeg, the first World Cup Ski Mountaineering race to be held in North America.

“We changed the course in two ways this year to accommodate the specifications of the ISMC,” explains Race Director Butch Adams. “The initial climb at Alta will be a bit longer distance wise for the World Cup and Racing Divisions and there will be a mandatory boot-up section where competitors will carry their skis after the descent off Black Bess,” Adams continues.

Sponsored by Patagonia, SCARPA, The Utah Travel Council and Ski Utah, the Black Diamond PowderKeg will take place at 7 am, Saturday, March 20, and will serve as the Ski Mountaineering World Championships for Singles (the World Cup has additional categories for doubles and team races) and final stop on the International Ski Mountaineering Council (ISMC) World Cup Tour. Ski Mountaineering is an emerging sport in Europe and is up for consideration as a Winter Olympic event at the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games. Top European racers and national teams will attend the Black Diamond PowderKeg as it is the official culmination of their racing season.

Three categories, Recreational, Racing and World Cup Racing, will take skiers from Alta to Brighton by way of Twin Lakes Pass in the heart of the Wasatch Range. The Recreational class will begin at the Gold Miner’s Daughter base area at Alta and go directly up to the Michigan Flats area and ascend Patsy Marley Peak, before descending back down to the main checkpoint at Michigan Flats. From there participants will skin up and over Twin Lakes Pass before descending to Brighton and the finish at the base of the Millicent Lift.

The World Cup Racing and Racing categories will add an initial in bounds climb at Alta to Gunsight Notch before descending to the Alta Cat House and the climb to Michigan Flats. Racers will then ascend Patsy Marley, schuss back down to the Michigan Flats checkpoint before ascending Black Bess/Honeycomb Ridge. Once atop the ridge a steep couloir will be dropped to the northeast, where racers will then boot up an adjacent gulley to regain Black Bess/Honeycomb Ridge before descending to Twin Lakes Pass and then over to Brighton.

Total distance for the Recreational Division is 5.77 miles with 3,550 feet of ascent and 3,352 feet of descent. The World Cup and Racing Division covers 8.39 miles with 5,413 feet of ascent and 5,102 feet of descent. The altitude ranges from 8,251 feet to 11,000 feet. For more information or to register go HERE.

January 24, 2004—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Becomes Green Power Partner In Utah Wind Power Campaign

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, announced a new energy initiative with Utah Clean Energy Alliance, making Black Diamond one of the first major manufacturers in Utah to be powered by wind. CEO Peter Metcalf explains, “After taking a stand against former Governor Leavitt’s policy to open previously protected Wilderness Inventory Areas in Utah to oil/gas drilling and coal mining in last summer and becoming active with the OIA Wilderness Recreation Task Force, we looked for ways to burn cleaner here at Black Diamond. When the Utah Clean Energy Alliance presented their new Utah Blue Sky Wind Power program we saw an opportunity to practice what we preach.”

Nearly ninety-five percent of Utah’s power is generated from coal fired power plants. Coal burning makes up almost forty percent of the nation’s mercury pollution and produces hundreds of thousands of tons of CO2 emissions which contribute to global warming. Black Diamond’s initial commitment to wind power will double every year for the next three years and in one year alone will reduce by over 111 tons the amount of CO2 emissions released. Black Diamond will institute the program at the end of January 2004, at a cost that will increase into five figures over the next three years. A Green Power Partner Designation is an EPA initiative.

“One of the pillars in Black Diamond’s Mission Statement is to champion the preservation of mountain, crag and canyon environments,” continues Metcalf, “and we are as committed to this program as we are an employee-owned company of climbers and skiers who want to actively preserve the exceptional powder skiing and ice climbing that define our backyard, the Wasatch Range. Global Warming is a significant strategic threat to our livelihood and our passions.”

January 22, 2004—Salt Lake City, UT
Simon Anthamatten and Ines Papert Dominate Ouray Ice Festival Competition

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, announced a near sweep of the men’s and women’s division at the recent Ouray Ice Festival Competition. Most impressive was a second place finish overall by female German climber Ines Papert. The only climber to place higher than Papert male or female was her fellow Black Diamond athlete and Swiss climber Simon Anthamatten.

“Every year the field at Ouray gets stronger,” commented Kim Csizmazia, another BD athlete and two-time Ouray Winner. “This year we were psyched to welcome Simon and Ines, two of the top European climbers on the World Cup circuit.” Csizmazia finished third this year in the Women’s Division behind fellow Black Diamond Fusion tool swinger Abby Watkins. Csizmazia continues, “It turned out that Simon and Ines were the only two to top out on the route, which placed Ines in second overall in a tough men’s field of competitors.” Last year, Papert won the Women’s World Cup Overall title and Anthamatten placed in a number of World Cup events.

Interest in ice climbing continues to draw attention nationally as NBC had cameras in place to film a new upcoming show Aura 360—which is slated to profile both Ines Papert and Jared Ogden. Bill Belcourt, Black Diamond Hardgoods Category Manager adds, “The interest in ice, mixed and leashless climbing is opening new doors in terms of style and what is considered difficult in winter climbing. Having five of the six top climbers using our new Fusion leashless ice tool speaks volumes to the core audience who are pursuing the frontier of our sport.”

To watch Anthamatten and Papert climbing, go to: www.blackdimaondequipment.com and order a free DVD of them climbing in Europe. The DVD, “No Pain No Gain,” is $5 for shipping and handling or free with any purchase of Black Diamond gear online.

December 12, 2003—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Announces Partnership With Peregrine Outfitters To Distribute Performance Lightware

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, announced a new a partnership with Peregrine Outfitters of Williston, Vermont, to distribute products for Black Diamond Performance Lightware.

Chris Grover, Black Diamond National Sales Director states, “Black Diamond Equipment has begun distributing its popular line of high tech headlamps through Peregrine Outfitters. Recognizing Peregrine's reputation for excellent customer service and quick turnaround, Black Diamond feels that this new relationship will serve to make Performance Lightware more readily available for East Coast consumers who can benefit from the innovative lighting technologies that our headlamps offer.”

Black Diamond introduced their paradigm-shifting headlamp line in 2001, and has received various awards and editor’s choice picks in the past few years with their integrated hybrid, zenon and LED technologies. The Peregrine affiliation will open new doors to the Performance Lightware line, a newly formed division of Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., created to focus on the growth BD is experiencing with their headlamps.

“Performance Lightware will act as a separate entity within the Black Diamond structure,” explains Peter Metcalf, Black Diamond CEO “and we are looking to complement our existing team with some new hires dedicated to this category in the near future.” The formation of Black Diamond Performance Lightware comes on the heels of multiple positives. Recently, Black Diamond not only received a significant military order for the Polar Star Headlamp from the Austrian Army, but also worked a joint venture with Decathlon of France to promote the Ion.

October 2, 2003—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond PowderKeg Named As ISMC World Cup Event For 2004

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, is proud to announce the elevated status of their Wasatch PowderKeg event for 2004. Sponsored by Patagonia, the Black Diamond Wasatch PowderKeg will be the third and final stop on the International Council for Ski Mountaineering Competitions (ISMC) World Cup Tour. The date of the PowderKeg, a backcountry endurance point-to-point race between Alta and Brighton, is slated for March 20, 2004.

Working with ISMC Technical Director Jordi Canals, Black Diamond was able to secure World Cup status for the singles event (as opposed to team events) due to the nature of the strenuous up and down course. In order to qualify for ISMC ski mountaineering status, the course skied by racers must meet certain criteria in terms of vertical gain and descent. The fact that the PowderKeg covers terrain both on and off piste and is a point-to-point style race best matched the criteria used in Europe where the sport is more technically demanding.

Approximately forty European racers from twenty-three countries are expected to travel to the fabled powder of the Wasatch to compete in the Black Diamond PowderKeg, which will be the culmination of World Cup races in Morgins, Switzerland and Grau Roig, Andorra. The ISMC Ski Mountaineering World Cup is one of three approved UIAA international competitions, the other two being Competition Sport Climbing and Competition Ice Climbing. Currently, the UIAA and the ISMC are petitioning the International Olympic Committee for consideration as an Olympic event in the 2010 Games in Vancouver. The decision on Olympic approval will likely be made following the 2006 Ski Mountaineering World Championships in Torino, Italy, which is also the site of the 2006 Winter Olympic Games.

ISMC delegate Canals comments, "The Wasatch Mountains are a paradise for the backcountry skiing and the area between Alta and Brighton is excellent terrain for a Ski Mountaineering World Cup event. As the city that so successfully organized the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, Salt Lake City offers easy access to foreign racers, athletes, journalists and the public.” Canals continues, “After more than twelve editions of the Ski Mountaineering European Cup, the UIAA-ISMC approved the 2004 Ski Mountaineering World Cup with the hopes of a North American venue. Having personally evaluated the PowderKeg as an observer last year, I am confident in the agreement between The American Alpine Club and organizer Black Diamond to not only host the first ski mountaineering World Cup event in North America but also have the PowderKeg serve as the series Final of the Singles World Cup.”

Patagonia Designer and 2003 PowderKeg Women’s Competitive Division Winner Jeannie Wall describes the allure of the event, “The first ski mountaineering race I ever did was in the arctic circle in Northern Sweden, it was in full conditions in backcountry terrain - it was a wild experience I'll never forget and what inspired me to want to race again here in the US. The PowderKeg, one of the only off-piste ski mountaineering races in North America, has the power to convert a skinny skis race addict like myself to the romance of bondage boards and steep descents, dishing up plenty of grueling technical skinning to boot.”

For more information on last year’s Black Diamond PowderKeg go HERE.

For a recap and race results of the inaugural Black Diamond Wasatch PowderKeg, please click HERE.

To learn more about the UIAA sanctioned ISMC events go to: www.uiaa.ch

September 19, 2003—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Hires Three Industry Veterans To Key New Positions

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, announced the hiring of three industry veterans to further bolster their product development team. The new additions are Dave Narajowski as the Senior Design Team Leader, Bill Belcourt as the Climbing Hardware Category Manager and Thomas Laakso as the Ski Line Category Manager. All three will be at work by October 1, 2003, and will join the Product and R&D team consisting of Joe Skrivan, Robert Yturri, Luke Cudney, and Jordy Margid.

Narajowski, formerly a VP of Engineering at Modaliti Design, is re-joining Black Diamond where he worked seven years ago and has been contractually working for the past nine months. Narajowski will lead design innovation for the Ski and Mountain Lines. Belcourt, formerly the Cofounder and National Sales Manager from Grivel North America, is also re-joining Black Diamond, and will put his innate sales background and first hand climbing experience to work in the Climbing Hard Goods category. Laakso, formerly the Advanced Concepts Director for The North Face, additionally has experience with New Business Development for No Limitz Snowboards and working at Innovative Composite Engineering (ICE), which worked as a vendor on the Black Diamond Cobra Ice Tool.

Black Diamond CEO, Peter Metcalf, comments, "Black Diamond remains 110% committed to being both the industry's core company and its innovative leader. Under Product Director, David Mellon's leadership, BD is ready to take this commitment to the next level, another significant step above all others. The hiring of industry product design and management all-stars such as Laakso, Narajowski and Belcourt, joining our existing team, is proof positive we are transforming that commitment into working reality. In addition, to their top-flight professional skills, all three are core, high level participants in the sports of climbing, mountaineering and backcountry skiing which are the heart of our business."

September 12, 2003—Salt Lake City, UT
Recreational Equipment, Inc. Partners with Black Diamond to Take HERA Climb for Life on the Road

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, is proud to announce a partnership with Recreational Equipment Inc. (REI), which will take the HERA (Health Empowerment, Research and Advocacy) Ovarian Cancer Climb for Life on the road to six major metropolitan areas this winter.

The HERA Climb for Life REI Road Tour will include a month long event at each stop to promote awareness and raise money for research in the following markets: Seattle, WA; Fremont, CA; Denver, CO; Minneapolis, MN; Salt Lake City, UT; and Southern California. Entire families can participate in the promotion earning points from climbing on climbing walls at REI stores and local gyms. Points will be tallied in participant scorebooks with incentives to gain pledges from friends, family and community members.

Each promotion will kick off with a party at REI, featuring Black Diamond product raffles, climbing clinics and demos, and a talk by a local medical expert on ovarian cancer. At the end of the month long promotion in each market, awards will be presented to the top finishers in each age and ability category. Black Diamond climbers Steph Davis, Kim Csizmasia, Abby Watkins, Heidi Wirtz and Tiffany Campbell will visit each REI location to present slide shows and climbing clinics.

Sean Patrick, ovarian cancer survivor and Founder HERA Women’s Cancer Foundation comments, “We are very excited to welcome REI as our newest 7 Summits Partner with the announcement of the HERA/REI Ovarian Cancer Climb for Life Road Tour. With their support we will be able to reach a broader audience to raise awareness for ovarian cancer and will hopefully be able to save more women's lives.”

Dennis Madsen, CEO of REI adds, "Every once in a while, an opportunity comes along that combines REI's efforts to promote outdoor stewardship and engage people in outdooor recreation, with an equally important cause—which is why REI is proud to partner with Black Diamond as a sponsor of HERA's National Ovarian Cancer Climb for Life Road Tour."

The second annual HERA Climb for Life event will take place in Salt Lake City, September 11–13, 2003, hosted by Black Diamond. This flagship event, which last year raised over $80,000, will be highlighted by the Governor of Utah proclaiming September as State of Utah Ovarian Cancer month, kicking off the national REI Road Tour which will begin in Southern California in January. For more detailed information on the event in your local area go to: www.ovariancancer.jhmi.edu/climb

REI, founded in 1938 as a consumer co-op by a group of Pacific Northwest mountaineers, is a national multi-channel retailer of quality outdoor products. REI sells all of the top outdoor brands, including its own line of award-winning gear and apparel for hiking, camping, climbing, cycling, paddling and winter sports. While anyone may join or shop at REI, members pay a one-time $15 fee and receive a share in the company's profits through an annual patronage refund based on their purchases. A portion of REI's profits is set aside each year for support of conservation, outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship causes, with $1.8 million to be awarded this year and more than $9 million since 1976, to such efforts around the country. REI currently operates 66 retail stores in 24 states; two online stores—REI.com and REI-OUTLET.com—and an adventure travel company, REI Adventures.

The mission of the HERA Women’s Cancer Foundation is to empower women to take control of their health, to empower scientists to seek new directions in ovarian cancer research, and to empower communities to provide support. The HERA Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) not for profit organization. No salaries are paid, board members pay their own way so that at least 90% of the money raised goes to research, awareness and to provide support. HERA is named for the greek goddess who was a protector of women and shook up the status quo. It is also an acronym for Women's Health, Empowerment, Research and Advocacy.

July 14, 2003—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Presents Vertical Frontier—a benefit for HERA Ovarian Cancer Climb For Life August 14, 2003 at Brewvies, 677 South 200 West, Salt Lake City, at 7:30 PM

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, is proud to sponsor a special screening of Vertical Frontier, a film by Kristi Denton Cohen, as a fundraiser for HERA Climb For Life on Thursday, August 14, 2003 at 7:30 at Brewvies to coincide with Outdoor Retailer in Salt Lake City.

Vertical Frontier, an award-winning documentary about the history of climbing in Yosemite Valley, recently won Best Film on Climbing at the prestigious Banff Mountain Film Festival and was the only American climbing film accepted in the Trento Film Festival in Italy. Narrated by Tom Brokaw, Vertical Frontier is a non-profit film with fiscal sponsorship through the Film Arts Foundation. This means that once costs for production are covered, all net profits will be donated to non-profit organizations that support the mountain environment such as the Access Fund, the American Alpine Club, and the Sierra Club.

“We are thrilled to be able to show Vertical Frontier during the Outdoor Retailer Tradeshow,” comments Producer Kristi Denton Cohen, who continues, “Sean Patrick is doing some amazing work with her HERA Climb for Life to benefit Ovarian Cancer and we are excited to pitch in and help Black Diamond support this cause.” The 2nd Annual HERA Climb for Life event will be hosted in Salt Lake City by Black Diamond September 11–14, 2003 with assistance from climbers Bobbi Bensman, Lisa Gnade, Nancy Feagin, Katie Brown and Chris Sharma.

DVD and VHS copies for Vertical Frontier are available during the OR show at Booth #5218 and at the Brewvie’s screening. A $10 donation is requested at the door and will enter you in a raffle sponsored by Black Diamond.

Additionally, Black Diamond sponsored climber Dean Potter will be on hand at Brewvies to sign posters. For more information on Vertical Frontier please go to www.pelotonproductions.com; to learn more about HERA Climb for Life go to www.ovariancancer.jhmi.edu/climb/newsletter.

June 5, 2003—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Wins Awards for ATC-XP Belay Device and SCARPA Rock Shoes

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, received three Editor’s Choice Awards for new products for the 2003 climbing season. The winners include the new SCARPA Marathon rock shoe and Black Diamond ATC-XP variable friction belay device from Climbing Magazine (Issues #222 and #224, respectively); and Editor’s Choice for Best Value from Rock & Ice for the SCARPA Eclipse rock shoe (Issue #125).

“Black Diamond has been built on innovation and innovation continues to drive us forward,” states CEO, Peter Metcalf , who continues, “Being an employee owned company of climbers and skiers, it is gratifying to continue to be recognized in our core categories. The new ATC-XP is worthy of the legacy of its forefather, the original Air Traffic Controller (ATC), which has been the best selling belay device of all time in the USA. Likewise our continued input into SCARPA rock shoe design continues to deliver a positive response.”

The newly designed ATC-XP is an easy to use, true variable friction device designed for belay and rappel use. Lead Designer Jonny Woodward explains “When we set out to produce the XP we were faced with improving on an extremely popular and well designed product in the original ATC. Giving climbers a genuinely superior passive belay device had been an unrealized goal for several years. After many prototypes, rigorous testing in the field, the lab and on the UIAA drop tower, Black Diamond had a solution. The XP increases versatility and durability without compromising the ATC's compelling simplicity.”

Both of SCARPA's new shoes, the Marathon and the Eclipse, won accolades in the competitive rock shoe reviews in Climbing and Rock & Ice magazines. The SCARPA Marathon, which is built for all day climbing with an innovative PU wedge under the heel, won Climbing Magazine Editor’s Choice for outstanding comfort and versatility. Meanwhile, the SCARPA Eclipse garnered the Best Value and Best All Around Shoe Editor’s Choice from Rock & Ice Magazine. SCARPA USA's Jordy Margid comments, “These awards continue to bolster SCARPA's reputation here in North America for exceptional footwear in the technical categories. For the discerning user, SCARPA offers core products for the climber, backcountry skier or hiker/backpacker.”

March 18, 2003 – Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Wasatch PowderKeg Ignites a Path from Alta to Brighton

Under the alpenglow on nearby Mount Superior and to the sound of highland bagpipes, the Black Diamond Wasatch PowderKeg debuted on Saturday morning, March 15, 2003. The backcountry ski race between Alta Ski Area and Brighton brought a point-to-point randonée style race to the fabled backcountry of the Wasatch. Conceived of by local ski mountaineer and Black Diamond gear designer Andrew McLean, the Wasatch PowderKeg raced through the heart of the Wasatch threading a course from Little Cottonwood to Big Cottonwood Canyon.

Ninety participants gathered to compete in the recreational and race divisions in the Grizzly Gulch area. Recreational skiers ascended to Michigan Flats, where they staged consecutive climbs up Patsy Marley and Honeycomb Peaks before skinning over Twin Lakes Pass and descending to Brighton. The Race Division had the added pleasure of an initial climb up Alta Ski Area to Gunsight Col before descending and joining the course at Grizzly Gulch. Total elevation for the two groups were Recreational—5.5 miles and 3,550 feet elevation gain; Race—7 miles and 5,250 feet elevation gain.

Women’s Race division winner and Patagonia designer Jeannie Wall comments, “The PowderKeg really embodied what American backcountry skiing is all about. The course was predominantly off piste and called on a real combination of skills to ski in variable snow conditions, deal with high winds on the peaks and had an overall great feeling of camaraderie.” Likewise, Men’s Recreational winner and Wasatch avalanche forecaster Bruce Tremper elaborated, “We received about four to six inches of fresh snow Friday night so the course had soft snow covering a harder layer which made for fun, albeit tricky conditions.”

Winners of the Men’s Race division and Women’s Recreational were Chris Kroger from Jackson Hole and Susi Hauser from Salt Lake City (Click HERE for full results). Sponsored by Patagonia and Black Diamond the Wasatch Powderkeg is being considered by the International Ski Mountaineering Council (ISMC) for sanctioning next year which would allow participants to earn points in overall international world cup standings. ISMC Technical Director, Spaniard Jordi Canals placed seventh in the Men’s Race Division and stated “It is a beautiful course which ran flawlessly and combines both on and off piste terrain.”

Additional local sponsors include Sports Guide, the University of Utah's AirMed, Alta Ski Lifts Co., Brighton Ski Resort, and The Canyons.

February 24, 2003—Salt Lake City
Black Diamond AvaLung Breathes Life Into Avalanche Awareness

With major avalanches gaining headlines throughout North America, Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, continues to gain field acceptance for the innovative AvaLung among snow professionals, patrollers and operators of helicopter skiing outfits.

“We are exceptionally pleased with how the AvaLung 2 is steadily becoming a part of the standard backcountry avalanche kit,” states Peter Metcalf, Black Diamond CEO “ From the beginning, we realized that the AvaLung would only gain acceptance with serious users over time. The AvaLung has proven it’s utility in the field and is continuing to gain international acceptance with avalanche forecasters, patrollers and backcountry guides.”

In the past month, major slides have claimed the lives of backcountry skiers in Canada, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. Avalanches have reached headline status in major newspapers across the country while the Canadian Government is considering a national policy for winter backcountry recreation in their national parks.

Among the organizations using the AvaLung this season in North America are the helicopter services Selkirk Tangiers, Canada and Valdez Heli Camps, Alaska, as well as ski patrols in Breckenridge, Colorado and Solitude, Utah. Mountain Rescue and avalanche forecasters which use the AvaLung include the Alpine Rescue Team in Evergreen, Colorado; Mount Washington Avalanche Center, New Hampshire; Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Specialists, Montana; American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education, Colorado; and Haute Gaspesie Avalanche Centre, Quebec. In Europe both ENSA – the National Alpine and Ski School in Chamonix, France, and the Rescue Team in Zermatt Switzerland use the AvaLung. Additionally, Black Diamond has provided AvaLungs to Teton Gravity Research, a Jackson, Wyoming, based Film Company for use on their athletes during filming in avalanche prone terrain.

“ We developed the AvaLung because as end users ourselves, we have personally lost friends in avalanches,” states Metcalf. “ To see this product gain acceptance and to hear about documented saves in the backcountry is a tribute to the dedication of our design team and their determination to bring this product to market.”

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee-owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. By consistently building innovative products and actively preserving the mountain environment, Black Diamond has assumed a leadership role in the international outdoor community. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Footwear encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

February 10, 2003—Seattle
Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. Among REI 2002 Vendor Partnership Award Winners

Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI), the nation's leading retailer of quality outdoor gear and clothing, has announced its 2002 Vendor Partnership Awards, including the selection of Black Diamond Equipment Ltd.

“REI is fortunate to work with the best companies in the outdoor industry,” said Matt Hyde, REI’s Senior Vice President for Merchandising and Logistics. “Strong partnerships are key to REI’s success, and these winners set a leading example.”

The annual awards program recognizes three key vendors and one overall Vendor Partner of the Year for efforts that have built a strategic and successful relationship with REI. REI's three merchandising divisions – Camping/Travel, Action Sports and Outdoorwear – nominated companies based on several measures, including financial performance, community and industry involvement and product quality, among others. The nominees are reviewed by REI’s retail stores, and the stores then determine the final award recipients.

The top 2002 vote recipient was Smith Sport Optics, Inc. (Sun Valley, Idaho), earning the REI Vendor Partner of the Year Award. The other 2002 REI Vendor Partnership Award winners were:

Camping/Travel Division Winner: Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. (Salt Lake City)
Action Sports Division Winner: Thule, Inc. (Seymour, Conn.)
Outdoorwear Division Winner: Superfeet Worldwide, LLP (Ferndale, Wash.)

“Black Diamond has been a longtime partner for REI and has won the Vendor Partner award several times for their climbing business. This year, the company wins honors for its Performance LightWare headlamp business, a competitive category the company entered less than two years ago. That’s the sign of a strong brand,” said Candyce Johnson, REI’s Director of Merchandise Management for the Camping/Travel division.

Other nominees included Brunton, Columbia Sportswear Company, Ex Officio Inc., Merrell, Mountain Hardwear, Mountainsmith, Oregon Freeze Dry Inc., Patagonia, prAna, Seattle Sports Company and The North Face.

REI was founded in 1938 as a consumer cooperative by a group of Pacific Northwest mountaineers seeking quality climbing equipment. While anyone may shop at REI, members pay a one-time $15 fee and receive a share in the company’s profits through an annual patronage refund based on their purchases. A portion of REI’s profit is set aside each year for support of conservation and recreation causes. REI has given more than $9 million since 1976 to such efforts around the nation. In 2002, REI awarded more than $1 million for conservation, outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship projects. REI operates 63 retail stores in 24 states; two online stores, REI.com and REI-OUTLET.com; and an adventure travel company, REI Adventures.

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee-owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. By consistently building innovative products and actively preserving the mountain environment, Black Diamond has assumed a leadership role in the international outdoor community. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Footwear encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

February 10, 2003 – Salt Lake City, UT
2003 Mugs Stump Award Announced

Black Diamond, Inc., ClifBar, Mountain Gear, Patagonia, Ltd., and W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc. are pleased to announce the recipients of the 2002 Mugs Stump Awards. In the eleven years since its inception, the Mugs Stump Award has provided $139,000 in grants to small teams tackling difficult climbs in the great mountains of the world. Climbs awarded a grant present an outstanding challenge—a first ascent, significant repeat, or first alpine-style ascent —and are made to climbing teams whose plans best exemplify the philosophy of climbing "fast, light, and clean." This year, five grants totaling $15,000 were awarded.

Three exceptionally strong teams will travel to Asia for objectives in the crucible of modern alpine climbing, the great mountains of the Himalaya. Steve House, Marko Przelj, and Jule Cartwright will attempt the North Face of Masherbrum (7821 meters) in the Karakorum Himalaya of Pakistan, tackling this huge mixed face in the minimalist style they've perfected over the past several years. For additional information, contact House at 509-996-2054, houkel@methow.com. Russel Mitrovich and Jimmy Haden will attempt a new route on the seldom-visited South Face of Changabang (6864 meters) in northern India, also in pure alpine style; for additional information, contact Mitrovich at 760-935-4086, wallruss26@hotmail.com. Doug Chabot, Bruce Miller, and Conrad Anker will attempt the often-tried Meru Shark's Fin, also in northern India; for additional information, contact Chabot at 406-581-1110, dchabot@imt.net.

Closer to home, Josh Wharton and Chris Dobbins will attempt the remote South Face of Kichatna Spire in Alaska; for additional information, contact Wharton at 720-352-4951, Joshua.Wharton@colorado.edu. Sean Isaac and Scott Semple will attempt a new ice and mixed route on the remote West Face of North Howser Tower in the Bugaboos, tackling the face in spring when the ephemeral line is most likely to be formed; for additional information, contact Isaac at 403-609-3668, sean@expertcanmore.net.

Background on the Mugs Stump Awards

Mugs Stump was one of this country's most prolific and visionary climbers until his death in a crevasse fall in Alaska in 1992. Best-known for his first ascent of the Emperor Face on Mount Robson in the Canadian Rockies and his triptych of brilliant Alaskan climbs (the East Face of the Moose's Tooth, the Moonflower Buttress on Mount Hunter, and a one-day solo of Denali's Cassin Ridge), Mugs was the complete climber, adept at all forms of the game. He had done countless routes all over the world since 1975, from big-wall first ascents in Zion to long free climbs in Yosemite to hard alpine classics in Chamonix. Both a dedicated athlete and a seeker after a higher truth beyond the physical manifestations of his chosen sport, Mugs saw climbing as a celebration of boldness, purity, and simplicity. It seems a suitable tribute, then, that a new generation of climbers continues to draw both inspiration and sustenance from his memory.

Applications for the Mugs Stump Award are available from John Wason, c/o Patagonia, Ltd., P.O. Box 150, Ventura CA 93002, and on the Web at:

www.patagonia.com/sports/mugsstump.shtml

Teams and individuals from North America are eligible. Applications are due December 31 each year, and awards are announced in early February.

Company contacts:

Peter Metcalf/Black Diamond	Tel: 801-278-5552	peter@bdel.com
Sarah English/ClifBar	Tel: 510-558-7855 ext 104	senglish@clifbar.com
Paul Fish/Mountain Gear	Tel: 800-829-2009, ext. 200	paulf@mgear.com
John Wason/Patagonia	Tel: 805-667-4768	john_wason@patagonia.com
Dan Cauthorn/W.L.Gore	Tel: 206-726-3369	dcauthor@wlgore.com
Michael Kennedy/at large	Tel: 970-963-2188	mkennedy@sopris.net

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Footwear encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

January 31, 2003 – Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Honors Japanese Distributor Naoe Sakashita for 20 Years of Excellence

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, will present longtime Japanese outdoor business leader and climber Naoe Sakashita with an award recognizing his enduring and excellent partnership with Black Diamond in Japan. The honorary presentation will take place at the Black Diamond booth # 613 on Day One, January 31st at 9:30 AM.

“Naoe is a living example of what makes the outdoor industry great,” states Black Diamond CEO Peter Metcalf, who continues, “it’s all about the people.”

In 1978, an itinerant climbing bum, Sakashita arrived on the doorstep of then Chouinard Equipment to apprentice with founder Yvon Chouinard. Sakashita learned to mill carabiners and forge pitons as well as climb ice. Sakashita’s “lucky boy” postcard, showcased on the back cover of the Chouinard Equipment catalog in the summer of 1983, recounted his epic first ascent of the North Ridge of K2 without oxygen with an unplanned bivy at over 8000 meters. As a young alpinist continuing to up the ante, Sakashita was persuaded to switch professions by Metcalf and Chouinard and set up distribution for them in Japan; at the time only a slightly less risky job than summiting Himalayan giants. Living with his mother and with very little business experience, Naoe made his initial deliveries on his bicycle at the end of each business day in downtown Tokyo.

In the last twenty years, Naoe and his distribution company Lost Arrow Inc. have become the premier technical distributor of products in the Japanese outdoor market. Sakashita works with Gramicci, Boreal, Lowe, Scarpa, Osprey, Metolius, Feathered Friends, MSR, HB, Verve and others. Beyond Lost Arrow, Sakashita hosts a successful tradeshow, runs a retail operation and a few climbing gyms. He was an early sponsor of renowned climber Yuji Huriyama, and continues to climb hard himself. He consistently pulls 5.12 and for his 50th birthday climbed the North Face of the Matterhorn in winter on his way to the ISPO trade show.

“Naoe continues to live the life of an alpine climber,” describes Metcalf, “He is resourceful, frugal and successful. His employees are core users and perpetuate the outdoor culture and lifestyle. We are honored at Black Diamond to have an exceptional working relationship with him. When Black Diamond was initially getting started Naoe stepped up and supported us in a big way, in fact he continues to be a member of our Board of Directors.”

January 31, 2003 – Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Fusion Ice Tool Sets New Standards in Ice Climbing

In a recent string of national and international ice climbing competitions, climbers using the innovative Black Diamond Fusion Tool are raising the bar. Designed as a leashless, high end, mixed climbing ice tool, the Fusion incorporates a number of unique features that allow climbers to push new levels of performance.

Notably, on the international Ice World Cup, Ines Papert is the overall leader among women climbers having won Ice World Cup events at Pitztal, Austria and Val Daone, Italy and Saas Fe, Switzerland. Australian Abby Watkins also placed fourth in Val Daone on the Fusions. Black Diamond is also sponsoring two emerging talents on the IWC circuit, brothers Samuel (age 16) and Simon (age 19) Anthamatten. Each has attained third place at Val Daone and Pitztal respectively, and have sent some difficult established routes. Samuel recently ticked Twintowers in Kandersteg, Switzerland (M10), while his older brother Simon climbed Whiteout (M11) and Tomahawk (M11), in Berner Oberland, Switzerland. Additionally, Papert sent Twintowers in Kandersteg (M10).

On this side of the pond, Black Diamond had a strong showing at the annual Ouray Ice Festival placing Raphael Slawinski on top of the podium. Additionally, top ranked climbers such as Rich Marshall, Sean Isaac, Scott Semple, Ryan Nelson and Jared Ogden all used the new Fusion, claiming 5 of the top 6 spots. Kim Csizmazia placed second in the women’s competition and Sue Nott placed fourth. Both women climbed on Fusions.

The Fusion is gaining acclaim due to innovative designs such as the patent-pending adjustable grip that allows users to tailor the grip to the size of their hand and glove. Additionally, the Fusion’s geometry is such that it not only reduces fatigue but minimizes pick shift when the climber shifts from the upper to the lower grip. The Fusion pick features a serrated top for friction and stability during “stein pull” moves, and a more aggressive front tooth for overhanging ice, mixed routes and competition climbing.

January 28, 2003—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Finalizes Backcountry Course for the Wasatch PowderKeg

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, has modified the course for the Black Diamond PowderKeg Backcountry Ski Race. Presented by Patagonia, the inaugural Black Diamond Wasatch PowderKeg will be a point-to-point endurance event that will take place Saturday, March 15, 2003. The unique race will begin at Alta in Little Cottonwood Canyon and end at Brighton in Big Cottonwood Canyon.

“The course modification serves two purposes,” explains PowderKeg course setter and Black Diamond gear designer Andrew McLean. “On one hand we needed to thread a route through the Wasatch, which is a checkerboard of land ownership and management issues. At the same time we wanted to provide participants with some challenging skinning, fantastic views and awesome skiing.”

The Black Diamond PowderKeg will offer participants two categories, Recreational and Racing. The Recreational course combines 3,550 feet of climbing over 5.5 miles, while the Racing Division will add an additional 1,700 foot climb, 1.5 miles and technical descent to spice things up. The course will start at Alta Ski Area, tour up Patsy Marley Ridge, descend and then climb up Honeycomb Peak before descending again and then ascending to Twin Lakes Pass. From Twin Lakes Pass skiers will race to the finish at Brighton Ski Area. The bonus climb for the Racing Division will be at the Alta Ski Area heading up to the Germania lift and then onto Gunsight Notch before the descent to the first checkpoint. The top three men and women finishers in each category will receive Black Diamond Backcountry Gear and Patagonia Outerwear.

Additional sponsors include Patagonia, Sports Guide, the University of Utah’s Air Med, Alta Ski Area and Brighton Ski Area. For more information go to:

www.BlackDiamondEquipment.com or register at www.Active.com

In the Salt Lake Area, you can register at the Black Diamond Store, 2092 East 3900 South, SLC, UT 801-278-0233 or the Patagonia Outlet, 3267 South Highland Drive, SLC, UT 801-446-2226.

January 24, 2003 – Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Introduces New Headlamp Technology

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, will debut their new Soliras Headlamp with lithium ion battery technology at the Winter Market Outdoor Retailer. The Soliras will be the first headlamp to take advantage of this technology typically found in cell phones and computer laptops.

“The Soliras headlamp is geared toward the outdoor professional, as it simply plugs into a rechargeable outlet like a cell phone while producing the brightest light for any lamp of a comparable weight,” comments Peter Metcalf, CEO of Black Diamond. “For frequent users, search and rescue, park rangers, or mountain guides, the cost efficiency of this style of lamp is obvious; additionally, it works in extremely cold temps as low as minus forty degrees Fahrenheit.”

The Soliras has three halogen brightness settings as well as the option of two built in LEDs which will burn for up to 2,000 hours. Compatible with AA batteries if recharging options are not available, the Soliras is a truly innovative headlamp that utilizes new technology in the headlamp category.

The benefits of lithium ion batteries are they weigh a third as much as alkaline batteries yet provide three times longer burn times. Because of this the Soliras can provide longer and brighter light than traditional headlamps as well as eliminating the costs of purchasing new batteries.

December 11, 2002—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Hires New Managers for Soft Goods and Franklin Climbing

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, announced the hiring of two new key employees. Robert Yturri will become the Soft Goods Category Manager and Luke Cudney will take over the helm as Franklin Climbing Equipment Category Manager.

"Both Robert and Luke will bring a lot to the table in terms of their experience, creative energy and insight into each of these market segments," comments Dave Mellon, Director of Product for Black Diamond. "We are excited to have them on our team and believe their impact will be both positive and immediate." Yturri and Cudney follow a recent trend at Black Diamond of finding employees with solid business skills that have a strong climbing background. Previous work experience for Yturri ranges from VP of Strategic Marketing and Business Development with Pacific Technology Partners in California and Strategic Marketing and Online Development consulting for a number of online ventures to General Manager Retail Sales and Pro Sales Management for the North Face. Robert got his start in the outdoor industry with an early ownership interest in Southern Yosemite Guides.

Cudney’s background, likewise, matches up well with his new position at FCE. Most recently, Luke worked at ClimbXmedia.com, a progressive website that is popular with climbers and boulderers. Luke also worked for Garbageband Records in California and Pusher, in Salt Lake City, where he was the Senior Production Manager.

November 13, 2002—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Telemark Performance Centers Open at Mad River Glen and
Beaver Creek

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, will open two new Telemark Performance Centers in Beaver Creek, Colorado and Mad River Glen, Vermont this winter. Additionally, Black Diamond has signed on as the lead sponsor of Tele TuesDaze—a nine-week event series at Stevens Pass, Washington. The Black Diamond Telemark Performance Centers will showcase the current fleet of the latest Black Diamond skis and bindings and Scarpa Telemark boots allowing both newcomers and experienced telemark skiers to demo the gear in a convenient setting.

Kim Miller, Ski Line Category Manager explains "While Black Diamond is inexorably linked to backcountry skiing, we see certain ski areas offering an unparalleled opportunity to experience our telemark gear in a comparative situation." Miller continues, "The opportunities at Stevens Pass, Beaver Creek and Mad River Glen promote telemark skiing in recognized telemark epicenters by offering easy access to equipment and regularly scheduled instructional programs that will both introduce and accelerate the learning process for interested skiers."

Initial feedback from the resorts is positive, "With the recent addition of Black Diamond and Scarpa to our Tele Tech Center we feel our program has been elevated another notch," comments Nate Goldberg, Ski School Supervisor for the Beaver Creek Ski and Snowboard School. "We keep getting more and more people every year wanting to learn to telemark and are seeing lots of cross over from the alpine and snowboard worlds." Beaver Creek will offer open, women's and kid's specific clinics thorough out the year. At Mad River Glen, Marketing Director Eric Friedman comments, "Telemark is part of our heritage as we have hosted an annual Pinhead Festival for twenty seven years. Bringing in Black Diamond is a huge addition for Mad River."

At Stevens Pass, the program is slightly different as Black Diamond helps launch Telemark TuesDaze, offering free instruction to beginners and discounted programs for intermediate and expert skiers. To learn more about each of these programs you can go to www.snow.com (for Beaver Creek); www.madriverglen.com or www.stevenspass.com

October 31, 2002—Salt Lake City, UT
Patagonia set to Tap the Black Diamond Powder Keg in 2003

.Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear is bringing the first annual Black Diamond Powder Keg to the Wasatch Mountains on March 15, 2003. Presented by Patagonia, the inaugural event will be a point-to-point endurance race that will lead backcountry enthusiasts through three of Utah's most famous canyons and along the fabled Wasatch Crest.

Conceived of by Black Diamond gear designer and acclaimed ski mountaineer, Andrew McLean, the event will be broken into two categories—Citizen and Racing. The Citizen course will start at the base of Alta Ski Area in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Skiers will climb over Twin Lakes Pass to Brighton Ski Area in Big Cottonwood Canyon and then ascend again to Scott's Pass where they will follow the Wasatch Crest to The Canyons Resort in Park City and descend to the finish. The course represents approximately 3,000 feet of ascent and 10 miles in distance. The Racing Division will follow the same route with the addition of two grueling climbs and challenging descents in bounds at Alta and Brighton, for 5100 feet elevation gain and 13 plus miles. Steep aspects on both courses will mandate the use telemark or alpine touring skis, boots and bindings and skiers will be required to carry basic avalanche and backcountry tools.

McLean comments, "The Black Diamond Powder Keg is designed to test participants' backcountry skill, endurance and self reliance, while taking them through the heart of the Wasatch." The Powder Keg is in the process of applying to the International Ski Mountaineering Committee (ISMC) for course sanctioning—which would make the race part of a worldwide series. Ski Mountaineering events are popular in Europe and a growing outdoor trend in North America—with Randonee Rallies scheduled in 2003 for Jackson Hole, WY, Alpental, and Stevens Pass, WA, in addition to the Elk MountainGrand Traverse between Crested Butte and Aspen. Currently, the ISMC is petitioning the Olympic Committee for inclusion as an Olympic sport in the 2010 Winter Games.

Additional local sponsors include SportsGuide, the University of Utah's AirMed, Alta Ski Lifts Co., Brighton Ski Resort, and The Canyons.

Patagonia, Inc., the environmentally conscious outdoor products company with a 30-year history of innovation in product design, has long been respected for high quality apparel and gear. Patagonia continues to merge technical product innovation with a philosophy rooted in sport-driven function, minimalist design and environmental sensitivity. www.Patagonia.com

October 10, 2002—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Equipment Receives Access Fund Sharp End Award for 2002

Black Diamond Equipment Receives Access Fund Sharp End Award for 2002 October 10, 2002 - Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, was recently honored with the Access Fund’s Sharp End Award for 2002. The Sharp End Award is presented annually to outstanding individuals or organizations that demonstrate remarkable leadership and commitment to the cause of preserving climbing access and the climbing environment.

"Black Diamond has been recognized by the Access Fund with a Sharp End Award for outstanding advocacy for climbers over the past decade and their commitment and dedication to keeping climbing areas open and preserving the climbing environment," states Heather Clark, Director of Development for the Access Fund." On behalf of the staff and Board of Directors of the Access Fund, we extend our thanks and congratulations to Black Diamond. The Access Fund is grateful for Black Diamond's contributions to our collective effort to preserve climbing opportunities for present and future generations, to protect the natural resources that climbers experience so uniquely, and to advance the culture and awareness of American climbing."

Upon acceptance of The Sharp End Award, Peter Metcalf, CEO, responded, "Black Diamond was founded with an underlying commitment to champion the preservation of, and access to, mountain and crag environments. The Access Fund represents and protects the interests of all American climbers and all visitors who come to America to climb. It is truly our national climbing organization." Metcalf continues "For many of us at Black Diamond, climbing is such a vital part of our lives on so many levels. Our business is built around climbing. We organize our personal and professional lives to permit us to climb as often as possible. Many of our best friendships are developed through climbing. To win the Sharp End Award is an honor that reflects this all encompassing commitment."

The Access Fund Sharp End Award has been honoring individuals and organizations since the early 1990s. Other recipients this year include CLIF Bar, Kurt Smith, George Bracksieck, Greg Sievers, and Shannon Stuart-Smith.

October 1, 2002 - Salt Lake City
Black Diamond Raises $30,000 for the Utah Avalanche Center

Black Diamond Equipment, a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, successfully raised over $30,000 to help fund the Utah Avalanche Center (UAC) by organizing and hosting Black Diamond's 9th Annual Fundraiser for the Utah Avalanche Center. Considered by many in the close knit, Wasatch backcountry community as the unofficial kick off to the winter season, the outdoor event featured live music, a silent auction, Uinta Brewing Company beverages and dinner by the House of Tibet.

Bruce Tremper, Director of the UAC comments, "Black Diamond is the epitome of a socially responsible outdoor manufacturer. They not only make great equipment for the backcountry, but they support the organizations that help keep their customers alive. Every fall when I see all those people who turn out to support us and I see the selfless effort of Black Diamond and their employees, it nearly brings tears to my eyes. When I record the advisory each winter morning, I see all those people on the other end listening. That's what keeps us going and doing the best damn job we can."

Additional national and local sponsors include Backcountry Access. Chaco Sandals, Cloudveil, Crazy Creek, Dale of Norway, Jansport, K2, NIKE ACG, Ortovox, Polartec, Scott USA, Sierra Designs, Smith Sport Optics, Tubbs Snowshoe, Alta Ski Lifts, Alta Lodge, Alf Wear, Barbacoa, Boulder Mtn Lodge, Brighton Ski Resort, Cafe Diablo, The Canyons, Castle Peak Yurt, Deer Valley Resort, Evolution Ski Company, Grub Steak Restaurant, Kirkham's, Lizard Lips, Lone Peak Designs, Park City Mtn. Resort, The Patagonia Outlet, Petzl, REI, Rockreation, Rustler Lodge, Ski Utah, Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort, Solitude Mtn. Resort, Tsunami, Voile, Wasatch Touring, Wild Rose and White Pine Touring.

August 26, 2002 – Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Restructures To Ensure Continued Product Innovation

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, announced several key structural and personnel changes to better facilitate organizational flow and unity. In the past five years, Black Diamond has been active with the introduction of their critically acclaimed Headlamp Program, the acquisition of Skye Alpine, Ascension, and the Franklin Climbing brands as well as the distribution of Bibler, SCARPA, Beal and Fritschi. The new alignment creates a strong, multi-faceted structure focused on the task of keeping BD true to one of its founding tenets: that product innovation is king.

“Black Diamond's successful growth and market leadership over the past thirteen years has been a dynamic process requiring the creation of new positions, new systems and an evolving organizational structure,” explains Peter Metcalf, CEO. “Fortunately, our employees have been resilient, magnanimous and flexible in the face of the need to evolve. We all recognize that without change we can not sustain true innovation and continue to thrive.”

Dave Mellon will move from Ski Product Line Manager to Director of Product Management, where his objective will be to focus on leading those responsible for managing product direction and development. Joe Skrivan will expand his role as Director of Product Development and partner with Mellon to coordinate product line strategies and successful product line integration. The combination of these two moves along with the redefinition of the current Product Group Manager role will better fortify Black Diamond to refine and optimize their resources.

Longtime BD employee, Kim Miller, will take over the reins as the new Ski Category Manager. Miller brings more than 20 years of backcountry and ski industry experience to this position. Customer Service Manager Kenyon Kopp will see an expanded role in National Sales management assisting National Sales Manager Chris Grover. Additionally, James Loveridge has joined BD as the Midwest Representative and will handle Key Accounts Sales Service.

August 8, 2002—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Equipment Names Jordy Margid as New SCARPA General Manager

Black Diamond Equipment has named longtime employee Jordy Margid to a new position as General Manager for all SCARPA footwear. Margid, formerly the Ski Product Group Manager will now be in charge of the entire SCARPA brand and manage Black Diamond’s distribution of the trekking/mountaineering, ski boot, and rock shoe lines.

“The purpose of creating this new position it to have one individual looking across all diverse parts of the SCARPA Product Line as well as all aspects of its distribution here in the United States,” states Peter Metcalf, Black Diamond CEO. “SCARPA has been an exceptional partner for Black Diamond and the best way to assure SCARPA’s continued success in the US market is in the creation of this new position.”

Margid, who has worked with SCARPA extensively for thirteen years during his nearly fifteen year tenure at Black Diamond, comments “ I am truly excited about this new opportunity and continuing to work with the people at SCARPA. Their three pillars of support – trekking/ mountaineering, rock climbing and ski footwear - have reached a point where they will best be served by this new structure.” Margid adds, “At this point for SCARPA to reach their market potential we need to have one person focus on all things SCARPA.”

Black Diamond has been an active partner in providing research, design and testing while also serving as the distributor of SCARPA rock shoes, plastic mountaineering boots and telemark and alpine touring ski boots since 1989. Black Diamond assumed the distribution of the SCARPA trekking/mountaineering line in 1998.

August 2, 2002—Salt Lake City, UT
Liquidlogic Kayaks to Use Black Diamond Hardware

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing equipment, announced the debut of a new kayak security bar developed in conjunction with core kayak manufacturer Liquidlogic.

New Liquid Logic Security Bars will be manufactured at the Black Diamond facility in Salt Lake City and will be made of high strength aircraft grade aluminum (7075-T6). The wide diameter of the bars are more ergonomic, making them easier on the hands while also being approximately twenty percent lighter.

The new security bar is part of an industry partner program initiated by Liquidlogic. This program not only develops top-notch, functional products; it also serves as a cross promotional vehicle, pooling the strengths of leading manufacturers within the outdoor industry.

Manufactured by Black Diamond, the branded Security Bars will be standard on all Liquidlogic whitewater kayaks and serve multiple purposes. They easily and securely attach to Thule Car Racks; offer a solid anchor point in rescue situations where hauling a boat may be necessary and serve as handles for loading and unloading.

Black Diamond CEO, Peter Metcalf comments, "We are always interested in providing innovative product solutions to outdoor consumers and are excited to partner with Liquidlogic, an emerging, core company in the paddling market." Metcalf continues, "Anytime we can contribute to the evolution of new products in the general outdoor market, it is a winning situation for all parties involved."

Liquidlogic president and co-founder Thomas Dempsey states, "Black Diamond hardware and cross marketing efforts will help us all perform better and really make our kayaks top notch." Dempsey adds "Liquidlogic was founded on principles of bringing the highest standards to everything we do and developing lasting relationships with market leaders. Our relationship with Black Diamond helps inspire us to continue to be the best!"

June 24, 2002 – Salt Lake City, UT
HERA Climb For Life: An Ovarian Cancer Survivor Event Scheduled for Salt Lake City, UT, September 19 – 22.

As part of National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, the HERA Foundation and Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. are sponsoring The HERA Climb for Life, a fund raising event to be held September 19 – 22, 2002. Noted women climbers Bobbi Bensman, Kitty Calhoun and Lisa Gnade will attend the event which will raise awareness of ovarian cancer and its symptoms, while uniting women and their families who have struggled with the disease. Funds contributed will go to the Johns Hopkins Ovarian Cancer Initiative which focuses on research for early detection and new directions in treatment.

Ovarian Cancer survivor and organizer Sean Patrick comments, “The myth is that ovarian cancer is a silent killer and that symptoms are difficult to detect; however, recent studies have shown the disease has recognizable symptoms.” She continues, “That is why building awareness of this form of cancer is critical. When ovarian cancer is caught early it is ninety-five percent curable.”

The event will be hosted at the Black Diamond campus, at the foot of the Wasatch Mountains, in Salt Lake City, on September 19 – 22, 2002. Food and refreshments, indoor/outdoor climbing clinics and demos, slide shows and raffles are all slated to take place. Outdoor climbing groups will go to one of the nearby world—renowned climbing areas of Logan, Little Cottonwood, Big Cottonwood, American Fork or Maple Canyon.

The HERA Foundation was founded by Sean Patrick as a tax-deductible entity. Because of the generosity of the Climb for Life sponsors, over ninety-five percent of the funds raised during this event will go directly to research and aid women and their families who battle this disease.

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. By consistently building innovative products and actively preserving the mountain environment, Black Diamond has established a leadership role in the international outdoor community.

www.BlackDiamondEquipment.com or www.ovariancancer.jhmi.edu/climb

June 20, 2002—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond and Petzl Announce Settlement on Frechin Keylock Patent

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. and Petzl, announced the two companies had reached an agreement regarding Black Diamond's new Positron carabiner and the keylock design it employs. The agreement enables Black Diamond to license the Frechin keylock design, which is presently used by Petzl on their entire range of carabiners and also by Kong. The agreement is effective immediately.

Keylocks differ from standard carabiners in the design of the nose and gate which does not contain a notch. This design makes them easy to clip and less likely to snag on slings or hardware. "While our designers worked hard not to infringe on the Frechin Patent that Petzl holds, the cooperative and reasonable approach by both companies proves they are as innovative in their approach and commitment to the general marketplace as they are in product development," commented Peter Metcalf, president of Black Diamond.

"Petzl and Black Diamond are both committed to innovation and enjoy a strong and respectful, competitive relationship," added Roody Rasmussen, president of Petzl America. "We are pleased we were able to reach a resolution which is win-win for everyone."

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

Petzl America is the U.S. division of Petzl, headquartered in France. In the 1970s, Petzl began developing and manufacturing products for caving. Today, the Petzl brand is closely associated with adventure, exploration and important exploits in the worlds of caving, rock climbing and alpinism. Petzl operates factories in France and the U.S. and is a worldwide supplier of climbing and lighting equipment.

June 14, 2002—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Wins Entrepreneur of the Year Award

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. was honored with the Entrepreneur of the Year Award, given annually in each state to ten companies by Ernst & Young, USA Today, the NASDAQ Stock market and others. Black Diamond won this prestigious award in the manufacturing category.

The senior management team at BD of Maile Buker, Scot Carlson, Chris Grover, Christian Jaeggi, Peter Metcalf and Mark Ritchie were noted for their commitment to preservation and access to the mountain environment while developing innovative products and establishing Black Diamond as a leader in their marketplace. Winners in each state are eligible for a national Entrepreneur of the Year Award where former recipients include, Michael Dell of Dell Computers, Howard Schultz of Starbucks Coffee and Steve Case of America Online.

"We are honored and humbled by this award," states Peter Metcalf, CEO, who continues, "We have worked diligently to build innovative products for climbers, backcountry skiers, snowboarders and outdoor enthusiasts while applying ourselves in stewardship issues concerning access to public lands. Knowing that these efforts are noticed and being in the company of other elite leaders in adjacent markets is an exceptional achievement." Black Diamond was jointly nominated for this award by Ernst & Young and Merrill Lynch.

As part of the World’s Business Award, the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award is considered the world’s most prestigious honor for entrepreneurs who have created and sustained growing business ventures. Additionally sponsored nationally by CNN, the Kaufmann Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership, the award was supported in Utah by AT&T Broadband, Utah Business, Merrill Lynch and the Deseret News.

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

April 25, 2002—Salt Lake City, UT
Skye Alpine Inc. to Join Black Diamond Equipment’s Backcountry Line

Skye Alpine Inc. and Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. have reached a joint agreement that will bring Skye into the Black Diamond performance Backcountry line. Known for it’s innovative O2 Telemark binding that has garnered praise in demos this past winter; the entire Skye product line, including Glide Lite Skins, Quick Draw Avalanche Probes and accessories, will become part of Black Diamond for Winter 2002 – 2003.

Founder and owner of Skye Alpine, Ted Ayliffe, Ph.D., comments "It’s a wise move for both parties. BD’s strengths are manufacturing and marketing; mine are design and development. I am very excited about bringing innovative, quality backcountry products to market as a team with BD. I feel this is a partnership that will ultimately bring significant advantages to the outdoor community."

Under the terms of the agreement, Ayliffe will join the BD team as a long-term contract designer. Currently located in Park City, there has been great demand for Skye’s binding, skin, avalanche probe and accessory lines. By combining forces with Black Diamond, Skye will immediately take advantage of BD’s established distribution, customer service, rep force and operational efficiencies.

"Ted is an innovator and has a clear vision of where backcountry skiing is headed," states Peter Metcalf, Black Diamond CEO. "The joint agreement with Skye is a win-win. It frees up Ted to do what he does best: design. At the same time, their new products add to a vital part of our performance backcountry line." Metcalf adds, "Manufacturing and final assembly will all take place at Black Diamond HQ in Salt Lake City and is scheduled to start shipping in September."

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

March 25, 2002—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Design Awarded by Chicago Athenaeum Museum

Black Diamond Equipment received the Good Design Award from the Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design for their Half Dome Helmet. The award is presented annually for the latest industrial and graphic designs by prominent American, European, and Asian designers. The 2002 exhibit of winning design products opens at The Chicago Athenaeum in October and is on display until late January 2003.

"The award for the Half Dome Helmet is a tribute to the vision each of our product group managers has and our ability to execute clean and effective design," states Peter Metcalf CEO. " The fact that this product has been recognized by non-climbing designers by an institution such as the Chicago Athenaeum is an honor."

The Black Diamond Half Dome Helmet won accolades alongside the BMW F650 GS Motorcycle, Titanium PowerBook G4 and the Siemens S40 Global Phone. Other winning outdoor companies include Nike for the TRIAX 300™ Running Watches and the Atomic System Beta Ride 11.20 Ski.

A company known for manufacturing hardware, Black Diamond has collected a good deal of their own lately. Awards for 2001 and early 2002 include the Backpacker Magazine Editor’s Choice Award for 2001 for the Gemini Headlamp; American Alpine Institute Guide’s Choice for the Alpha Plastic Boot; Climbing Magazine Editor’s Choice for their Cobra Ice Tool, Micro Stoppers, and the AvaLung II; and Couloir Magazine Editor’s Choice for the Arc Angel Ski and T2 Telemark boot.

"Consistently our employees pursue designing equipment from their personal needs and passion with which they pursue climbing and backcountry skiing," continues Metcalf. "Being nestled below the Wasatch Mountains, gives us a backyard that also serves as a proving ground for our product."

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

February 28, 2002—Salt Lake City
Skier Wearing Black Diamond AvaLung Survives Avalanche

Black Diamond Equipment recently learned that a man wearing its AvaLung II avalanche breathing device survived a serious avalanche while skiing in Canada. Reports indicate that four members of a ten person guided helicopter - skiing group originating in Revelstoke, BC were caught and buried in the slide. Two members were only partially buried. The other three were fully buried and located grouped together in a natural terrain trap. Members of the group uncovered the lone survivor, an American man, after an estimated 35-45 minutes under approximately six feet of debris. The man was found unconscious, in a supine position, breathing through the AvaLung mouthpiece. He regained consciousness upon being uncovered. The other two buried adjacent to him were both found dead, one of them being a UIAGM Swiss guide with the group. Neither of the deceased wore an AvaLung.

The original AvaLung was introduced by Black Diamond in 1999 after extensive controlled burials and testing in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah. Breakthrough data learned during these tests was published in the Journal of American Medical Association, May 3, 2001. The AvaLung is a revolutionary breathing device that enables a buried avalanche victim to draw air from the snow surrounding them allowing the user to breathe while awaiting rescue. Redesigned in 2001, the new streamlined AvaLung II continues to gain acceptance among avalanche professionals, ski patrol, backcountry skiers, snowboarders and snowmobilers.

Black Diamond has received confirmed reports in recent years of avalanche victims in Europe and North America surviving with the aid of the AvaLung. Designed to be used in conjunction with an avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe, and reliable partners, the AvaLung is not intended to supplant the need for proper avalanche education or protocol but rather should be used in conjunction with it. The accompanying documents include a news story about the accident and the transcript of an interview of the survivor by a third party, independent Avalanche Forecast Professional and Colorado Avalanche Information Center Director Dale Atkins. Last year a record number of 45 deaths were the result of avalanches in North America. This winter 2001/2002, a total of 28 deaths have been recorded due to avalanches in the USA and Canada.

Black Diamond AvaLung Survivor Interview

Interview with the victim/survivor of the avalanche conducted by AvaLung Product Group Manager Jordy Margid of Black Diamond Equipment.

Time of burial: 35 - 45 minutes according to the helicopter pilot
Burial Depth: 6 feet at hip
Position: semi supine, head up
AvaLung model: A2 (gift from his girlfriend)
Age: 44
Height: 6’2"
Weight: 195
Physical conditioning: excellent

Accident Report:
Victim had just skied a pitch and stopped at the bottom with others in the guided group. He looked up and saw the slide coming at him and put the AvaLung in his mouth (he had practiced with the AvaLung on a regular basis prior to the trip). He was hit by a "large slide" and was buried instantly— he struggled to stay on the surface but could not. He tried to keep his hands over his face and mouth, but as the slide set up, his hands were torn away. When the slide set, he had little, if any, pressure on his chest, but he was completely unable to move. Snow was packed in his ears and nose, but his mouth stayed clear due to the mouthpiece. He said it was not at all difficult to keep the mouthpiece in his mouth. He first thought, "I'm breathing and I'll be fine. I'm just going to relax and wait to get dug out." As time went on, he started thinking that his entire group could have been buried and that there would be no one on the surface to dig him out. As more time went on, he started thinking he was going to die and tried to figure out how he was going to die. He went unconscious for the last part of his burial (he thinks about 5 minutes but does not know for sure). As soon as he was dug out, he came to. Dr. Colin Grissom MD, who conducted all the test burials during the development of the AvaLung believes this is due to hypercapnia - breathing too fast due to panic. The victim said that he and others in the rescue party attribute his survival to the AvaLung.

Black Diamond AvaLung—Helicopter Ski Operation De-Brief

Interview of Senior Guide of Helicopter Ski Operation conducted by Dr. Thomas Crowley of the University of Colorado, inventor of the AvaLung.

I spoke with the, Senior Guide at the Helicopter Ski operation. I explained who I am, and that we had heard rumors that they had experienced an accident that involved an AvaLung. I said that we have done extensive testing in controlled burials, but that we need all the information we can get on the AvaLung's performance in actual field accidents. I promised him full confidentiality, to whatever extent he wishes. He responded that he saw no reason to withhold information. Early last week they had an accident. Four were buried, one only partially. Three "went for a ride". Those three were carried to a terrain trap, and all were deposited within a few meters of each other. The heads of all three were about 1.5 - 2 meters deep, and they were beside each other. All three were dug free at about the same time after burial. Two victims were not wearing AvaLungs, and they could not be resuscitated. At least one was a guide. The third victim (a guest) was wearing an AvaLung II. He was "taking baby breaths" and "unconscious" but "not blue" and he "woke right up" after extraction. The Senior Guide was present during a later debriefing of the survivor. The victim had heard a warning, crouched down, fumbled a little with the tubing but crammed the mouthpiece into his mouth and "went for a ride". He clamped down on the mouthpiece with his teeth, but could not hold onto it with his hands. He could not clear an airspace in front of his face because his hands had been forced out to his sides, However, he said that he had no problem keeping the mouthpiece in his mouth. After stopping he relaxed immediately; "like we teach them", said the Senior Guide. The guest had no significant trauma and wanted to ski again a couple of days later. The Senior Guide did not know whether the fatalities had any physical trauma; their autopsies will reveal that. I told him that I got a real shiver from this, and he said that we had developed something that no one would have even guessed about a few years ago. I said that it really sounded as though this case demonstrated the AvaLungs effectiveness, and he answered, "It's an overwhelming case".

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

February 11, 2002—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond in the Wasatch Rough

With the visiting avalanche of media, the eyes of the world are focused on the Olympics and inspired by the backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains. For Black Diamond, the world’s leading climbing and backcountry snow sports manufacturer, the Wasatch inspires them everyday.

Based on the outskirts of Salt Lake City below Mount Olympus, the employee-owners of Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. build innovative, new products like the AvaLung,, an avalanche breathing device and the Cobra, a carbon fiber technical ice axe. While the winter Olympics are staged in Black Diamond’s backyard, there is some ironic continuity between the mega-scale competition of the IOC and the individual pursuits of climbers and backcountry skiers.

"We have sold product directly to the Olympics as judges for the luge, bobsled and alpine events have bought crampons for walking on the ice and courses," states CEO Peter Metcalf. " In addition, since 9/11 various U.S. military and security forces have bought a wide range of our mountaineering and ski gear."

Juxtaposed against the crowds at the Olympic alpine skiing venues are the off-piste powder runs where backcountry skiers and riders venture. More established in Europe, randonee or AT (alpine touring) skiing is an emerging market in North America. Enthusiasts must be accomplished not only at skiing or snowboarding but also must be knowledgeable about avalanche terrain and hazard.

"With so much of society being litigious and homogenized, there is an aspect in the human spirit that invites self-reliance and daring," continues Metcalf. " Certainly, Olympic athletes are lauded for pushing their limits in terms of ability and overcoming the mental and physical challenges they confront. In this sense, Black Diamond and the Olympics are linked. We as an employee owned company celebrate and manufacture products that allow users to push themselves in the same manner, to overcome adversity and challenge and chase their dreams."

To learn more about Black Diamond Equipment or to visit and tour their factory in Salt Lake City please contact Penn Newhard at Backbone Media 970-963-4873 or penn@backbonemedia.net

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

January 18, 2002—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Hires David Mellon as New Product Group Manager for Ski Line

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a leading manufacturer of climbing and winter backcountry products, announced the hiring of David Mellon as the new Ski Line Product Group Manager (PGM).

Mellon has over 15 years experience in the outdoor industry, most recently as the Director of Product Creation for Reef and previously the Director of Design, Research and Development at The North Face. Additionally, Mellon’s background spans retail store management, ski-tech work, Product Designer at Giro and Advance Product Design and Engineering at Nike.

The opportunity for Mellon comes as longtime BD Ski Line PGM Jordy Margid steps back to spend less time traveling and more time devoted to his own new business outside of the ski/outdoor markets. Margid, who pioneered plastic telemark boot design over 10 years ago, has been instrumental in many backcountry innovations including the AvaLung and current efforts to establish a new telemark norm. Margid will continue to work at Black Diamond on a part time basis as the Scarpa Ski Boot PGM.

"Jordy’s track record and contributions to backcountry skiing have helped define Black Diamond as a brand," states CEO Peter Metcalf, "While BD will still benefit from Margid’s presence, Dave brings another set of skills and business acumen that will benefit all our PGMs." Metcalf continues "I see Mellon’s immediate impact as not only to the Ski Line but to our overall PGM structure and it's integration with the rest of Black Diamond."

As an avid alpine and telemark skier, snowboarder, rock and ice climber, paraglider pilot, paddler, cyclist and surfer Mellon adds, "I had a strong desire to get back to a totally committed hardgoods company, and BD absolutely fits that criteria. The caliber and accomplishments of the people in house both personally and professionally are inspiring and I am truly excited about joining the team and re-locating my wife and 2 year old son to the Wasatch."

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

November 5, 2001—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Backs Women's Growth in Climbing and Backcountry Skiing

Black Diamond Equipment continues to expand their women's specific product lines as part of an overall commitment to increased women's participation outdoors. In addition to dedicating resources to the development of new women's gear, Black Diamond, which has long supported women athletes, recently expanded their roster of accomplished climbers and backcountry skiers, as well as women's clinics and programs. Recent studies conducted by the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) cited specific growth and a general trend that places female involvement in human powered activities at a three year high.

The study conducted by OIA and The Leisure Trends Group specifically points to increases in both telemark skiing and rock climbing. Concurrently, Black Diamond has tapped into design ideas and product inspiration from a surrounding pool of talent including Kim Csizmazia, Abby Watkins, Steph Davis, Tiff Campbell, Ines Papert and Kasha Rigby. Black Diamond's Calypso harness complements the recent introduction of the Scarpa Dominatrix rock shoe and the Scarpa Magic - a women's specific alpine touring ski boot. Additionally, Scarpa telemark offers updated versions of the women's T2 and T3 that will coincide with the debut of new men's models this winter.

"Clearly, the number of women participating in these activities is driving the introduction of new products to meet their needs," states Maile Buker, Director of Marketing at Black Diamond. "Discerning users gain immediate benefits and have more positive experiences when they have better fitting and performing gear. Additionally, women's instructional clinics such as Kim Reynolds' Chicks with Picks, Abby Watkins' Ascending Women, Leslie Ross' Babes in the Backcountry and Heather Paul's Ultimate Groove Telemark Weekends are offering a nurturing environment to stimulate interest and sustained participation."

Scarpa Mountain Boots' debut of six new women's specific models in 2001, including the well-received Women's Nitro, represents over 25% of their line. "Women account for 50% of outdoor consumers and demand for women's specific gear in soft goods and outerwear is transferring into the equipment categories," continues Buker. "Women want gear that is well-suited for them. They are over the girlie syndrome of manufacturers considering them lesser performers and not needing top quality or well fitting gear. BD has a history of innovation and adapting to change and we see our focus on women's products as an asset in the future."

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

October 31, 2001—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond’s Cobra Ice Tool Featured on Car Talk

The acclaimed Black Diamond Cobra Ice Tool has consistently won accolades as the top ice/mixed tool on the market. So how did it end up on Car Talk, a nationally syndicated cult radio show?

"When we heard we were part of the weekly Puzzler Enigma question we not only deciphered the answer to the riddle but also had the right tool for the job," states Peter Metcalf, President and CEO of the employee owned Black Diamond Equipment. The radio hosts asked people to submit their answers to the weekly riddle on a postcard or engraved on a Carbon Fiber Cobra Ice Tool (please see the attached website and audio links and jpeg image of the engraved tool). Black Diamond went the distance on this front following the random request of Car Talk and engraving the answer on a new Cobra ice tool.

While there is still no word on what Car Talk hosts think of their newest rear view mirror ornament, Black Diamond seems happy with the mention. " Essentially this has been a fun exercise while also serving as another example of mainstream America’s growing intrigue with the outdoor market and specific activities that were once considered fringe," continues Metcalf. " Obviously, Cobra tools are not for everyone, however the technology that BD puts into other product designs, such as our new headlamp series, does transcend to the broader markets."

Here's the puzzle itself:

http://cartalk.cars.com/Radio/Puzzler/Transcripts/200142/index.html

And here's the audio, for anyone with sound on their PC:

http://cartalk.cars.com/Radio/Puzzler/Audio/200142/RA/puzzler.ram

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

June 29, 2001—Salt Lake City, UT
American Avalanche Advisory Fund Founded

With the recent start of summer, the former National Avalanche Awareness Advisory Board has been restructured and renamed the American Avalanche Advisory Fund. A non-profit, sub group of the American Avalanche Association; the American Avalanche Advisory Fund (AAAF) will act as a national voice for winter backcountry enthusiasts with the goal of raising funding for regional avalanche centers.

In recent years avalanche related deaths and accidents have reached an all-time high, as has the number of people venturing into the backcountry on skis, snowmobiles, snowshoes and snowboards. At this same juncture funding for avalanche education programs and forecasting has been decreased. The AAAF is founded to increase funding for these programs through individual and corporate support. Founding member, Peter Metcalf of Black Diamond states, “ Initial meetings with outdoor manufacturers have been extremely positive and steps are being taken to establish an executive director position, build an identity, gain industry support and design an advertising campaign to raise awareness of both the problems the avalanche community faces and the proactive nature of the AAAF.”

Initial support has been strong with AAAF Board members including Peter Metcalf of Black Diamond Equipment, Dennis Jensen of Burton, Mark Galbraith of Patagonia, John Winsor of Radar Communications, Kathleen Beamer of REI, Kathleen Murphy of Tubbs Snowshoes, Penn Newhard of Backbone Media, Onno Wieringa of Alta Ski Lifts, Ed Klim of the International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association, Don Bachman of the American Avalanche Association, and Doug Abromeit of the US Forest Service Avalanche Forecast Center and at large members Lou Whittaker, Ted Wilson (former SLC Mayor), Coca Cola representative Scott Vitters and Ed Ryberg from the Forest Service Winter Recreation Partnership. Board members will work closely with avalanche professionals Knox Williams, Bruce Tremper, Karl Birkeland, Steve Conger, and Russ Johnson in developing a program and building partnerships between the avalanche community and the general public.

“The goal of the AAAF is to gain public support and funding to better provide for the demand created by recreational users going into the winter backcountry,” states Peter Metcalf.. For more information on the AAAF or to interview specific individuals contact AAA@avalanche.org or visit www.Avalanche.org

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

May 21, 2001—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Equipment, Ltd. Doubles Warehouse Space, Installs EDI and UPC Bar Coding to Increase Efficiency.

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. has accomplished a number of key logistic and customer service enhancements to heighten efficiency and better integrate inventory and delivery. These moves have been prompted by in depth discussions with retailers and the need to bring greater efficiencies for the benefit of all involved in the outdoor market.

The epicenter of this series of new improvements is a Distribution Center, a 47,000 square foot space located close to the airport in Salt Lake City and the Black Diamond sew plant. The new Distribution Center increases Black Diamond’s warehousing capacity by approximately 100%. This increased space and capacity will facilitate more timely and accurate shipping of orders with the implementation of a Warehouse Management System that includes wireless computer connectivity, powered conveyors, sophisticated scanning devices, advanced label printers, stock-pickers and other new equipment.

This investment comes at a time that Black Diamond sees as critical to outdoor manufacturers and specialty retailers. "Because Outdoor as a category is under increased pressure to be more efficient and offer better service, Black Diamond has made a significant investment to ensure that we not only remain competitive, but succeed with state-of-the-art operational systems," states Peter Metcalf. "It is instrumental to invest in such systems for the mutual benefits they enable. This is a benefit to both BD and the stand alone retailer," Metcalf adds. The new Distribution Center’s management system has a customized software package that will streamline the receiving, putaway, picking and shipping processes. The net impact will be a decrease in cycle time from order placement to product shipping.

Additionally, Black Diamond will implement global hang tag program and UPC Bar Coding starting in July 2001. All products leaving the Distribution Center will have attached UPC bar codes, which can be used by retailers worldwide to more quickly, receive inventory into their systems and more easily identify inventory on the shelf. Black Diamond will also implement an Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) system. The new EDI system allows the conveyance of purchase orders from the customers and advanced shipping notices to the customer (ASNs) electronically; greatly reducing the amount of labor that goes into ordering product while contributing to increased inventory turns. "The EDI system is something we think will be vital to our relationships with specialty retailers," Chris Grover, National Sales Manager states. "It is something they have asked for and is a necessary investment that will contribute to efficiency at the manufacturer and retail levels."

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

March 16, 2001—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Wins SOLTEX Award and Ice World Cup

Black Diamond Equipment’s ice line continues to thrive with a SOLTEX Award for innovation and an overall first place finish in the Ice Climbing World Cup.

The SCARPA Alpha boot distributed by Black Diamond won the second place outdoor extreme award for technical innovation at the SOLTEX/Go Outdoors (UK) Show held February 25 – 28. The award recognized the innovative design of this modern plastic ice climbing boot which was co-developed by the two companies. The Alpha "combines levels of comfort and dexterity associated with leather boots together with the insulation, protection and performance of plastic climbing boots. Innovations include: lasting and fit of leather in a plastic boot, wet grip rubber sole, asymmetric lacing and flexation combined molding of Pebax® and carbon fiber to give extreme light weight and strength."

With the Ice World Cup culminating in Kirov Russia, Black Diamond sponsored climber Ines Papert (Germany) won the overall women’s title with a second place finish at the event edging Liv Sansov (France) for the overall title. This marks the second consecutive year that a Black Diamond sponsored ice climber has one the overall title. Last year Black Diamond swept the top spots with Kim Csizmazia (Canada) winning the Women’s Overall while Will Gadd (Canada) notched the top spot for the Men’s Overall. All three athletes earned their World Champion titles using Black Diamond’s Cobra Ice Tool and Sabretooth Crampons.

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

January 27, 2001—Salt Lake City, UT
Beal Ropes Announces Exclusive Distribution Agreement in North America with BlackDiamond Equipment, Ltd.

Beal Ropes, France announced an agreement with Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. giving them exclusive rights to distribute Beal products beginning January 1, 2002. The deal encompasses dynamic and static ropes and cord accessories.

Beal has supplied ropes to Black Diamond under the Black Diamond label for many years and is considered a dominant brand in the rope market. “We have worked with Michel Beal for over 15 years and consider his company to be a world class supplier and the global market leader in the manufacturing of climbing ropes,” states Peter Metcalf of Black Diamond, continuing "together we have built our respective businesses in North Amercia and we look forward to now taking it to an even higher level."

Michel Beal adds, “We look forward to the distribution of Beal ropes starting in 2002 in cooperation with Black Diamond.” This timeline gives existing dealers and retailers time to adjust to the changes in distribution. In past years, Black Diamond has been successful in partnering with similar category leading brands such as Ascension, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots.

Beal Ropes is a worldwide leading manufacturer of semi static and dynamic ropes and climbing accessories located in Vienne, France. Their exclusive Compact weaving process renders the core and sheath as one which lowers impact forces, increases the number of fallsbefore failure, eliminates sheath slippage, makes the ropes lighter and conserves the dynamic property of the rope. For more information on Beal go to www.beal-planet.com or email beal@bealropes.com.

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

January 26, 2001—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Equipment, Ltd. Announces New Products for F’01

Climbing Hardware
The next step in crampon innovation is the Bionic. Horizontally railed, semi-rigid with a low profile and tapered front points—the Bionic matches your boot flex for unparalleled precision and penetration. Designed for hard ice and mixed routes, the Bionic is slightly asymmetric, can be used as a dual or mono and works with plastic or leather climbing boots, even telemark ski boots.

The Raven is Black Diamond's new foray into the expanding piolet market. Super durable and lightweight with a performance edge, the Raven is built from 17-4 stainless steel and features a wasp-waisted head with finger notches on either side for comfort and a secure grip. A flat, solid picket-pounding surface makes for secure belays and an optional injection-molded grip is also available. As a lightweight ice axe the Raven competes favorably with other models but offers more features, durability and comfort.

Hard Accessories
The newly designed AvaLung II has been scaled down with a new lower volume ergonomic fit. The streamlined harness and more compact overall design makes the new AvaLung II more compatible to backcountry users needs. Weighing only 275 grams, the AvaLung II is destined to become a staple in the arsenal of every serious off piste enthusiast.

Black Diamond also offers a new four-style trekking pole program that is competitively priced and featured for both the day hiker and technical mountaineer. The Access is a two-section patented FlickLock™ design that is lightweight and durable. The Approach comes in three sections and is designed for travel on snow and glacier terrain. The three-section Advance incorporates a 15-degree corrective angle shaft and dual-density grips. The top-of-the-line Ascent features a shock absorbing, spring loaded upper shaft which be switched on or off, and rapid strap adjustment. All Black Diamond Trekking Poles feature 7075 aluminum shafts, have replaceable carbide tips and accommodate the Whippet self-arrest grip.

Nordic/Telemark Equipment
The revised Skyhoy 2 sports improved boot retention, a lower profile and increased strength. With easier step-in design and consistent release the Skyhoy 2 is the answer for on-mountain performance, innovation and reliability. Black Diamond is also debuting a new ski leash which is indestructible, easy to operate in bulky gloves and won't freeze up.

Scarpa continues to evolve their "T" Series of telemark boots with the introduction of the new T2 and T3. Employing the breakthrough asymmetrical bellows design of the last year's T1, and new co-injection, torsion beam construction, the T2 and T3 will have unparalleled torsional rigidity and silky smooth flex. Both the T2 and T3 will offer these improvements for both Men's and Women's specific models.

The completely new Mira, is a wide body ski that is a big slope powder hunter's dream. Untracked pow is the domain of the Mira which provides an underfoot platform for floatation with 112 - 79 - 102 mm dimensions.

SCARPA Mountain Boots
SCARPA Mountain Boots continues to step it up with two new models for F' 01. The Thermo Cerro Torre is a new insulated version of our popular lightweight mountaineering boot. The added insulation increases the range of temperatures in which the boot can perform without compromising the weight, range of motion and upper flexibility of the Cerro Torre.

The Men's and Women's Vento Mid GTX is a wet weather version of this popular design. Completely functional with a style that can live in both the city or on the trail, the Vento Mid GTX provides lightweight comfort, superior ankle support and a Gore-Tex® sock liner for complete waterproofness.

Ascension
Ascension introduces a new ClipFix Tip to Tail Attachment System that is cleaner and easier to use than the traditional TTP attachment. All Ascension Standard Skins will also have a new sewn reinforcement and a nameplate for easy identification.

Ascension continues to innovate with the debut of a new hydrophobic plush which resists water while delivering increased glide and climbing security. The hydrophobic treatment is applied to both Mohair and Nylon Standard Skins without effecting durability or suppleness.

Gloves
The Thermostat is a new glove that features Schoeller ComforTemp (tm), a new system which effectively regulates temperatures. Based on Frisbee technology originally designed for NASA space suits, this high tech material balances out temperature extremes and enhances comfort. Combined with a Pittard goatskin waterproof palm and a micro fleece lining for warmth, the Thermostat is a super versatile, nimble and warm glove.

The new Zero Mitt from Black Diamond integrates a 300-weight fleece palm with 10 ounces of Primaloft insulation on the back of the hand, combined with a waterproof leather palm and insert to create a dexterous and toasty mitt. Rated to zero degrees Fahrenheit, the Zero is your hero for Alaskan mountaineering and cold weather ice belay duty.

Packs
All Black Diamond packs are cleanly designed to be efficient, affordable and serve the specific needs of climbers, alpinists and backcountry skiers. Increased volumes in the new Ice and Stone packs up the carrying capacity with the Stone at 40-liter and Ice at 50-liter. New colors flesh out the Bullet pack series, bringing gray and orange to the previous stealth black only model. Likewise, the Zippo adds Black Diamond orange to this sleek, black, shadow of a pack. New colors also shade the mainstay Wingate series of hip packs and the ski mountaineering focused Snow Pack 2.

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

January 15, 2001—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Launches AvaLung Interactive Flash Website

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. recently unveiled their new AvaLung.com flash website that gives winter backcountry users the full scoop on this innovative product. Complete with state of the art graphics and solid technical and medical data AvaLung.com demonstrates its utility and theory online.

The AvaLung continues to win over support in the avalanche community among patrollers, forecasters and helicopter ski guide services. Last spring in Alaska, the ‘Lung was considered a vital part of every heli skiers avalanche kit and proved itself in real time burials during an unstable period in the field.

Dale Atkins of the Colorado Avalanche Information Center commented “2/3 to 3/4 of all avalanche victims die as a result of suffocation. The reason the AvaLung was developed is to give a buried person more time to be found and recovered – alive! I’m very impressed the system really works.”

Beyond field use, last May test data from the research burials was reported in the prestigious Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA). For more information on the technical findings from test burials and the AvaLung visit the new Flash website www.AvaLung.com.

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

January 15, 2001—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond AvaLung II–The Next Generation

Black Diamond Equipment’s AvaLung will see significant design changes for Winter 2001.The debut of the AvaLung 2 at the Winter Outdoor Retailer Trade Show will build on the AvaLung’s growing reputation with ski and avalanche professionals which includes patrollers, forecasters and helicopter ski guides.

The newly designed AvaLung II is a smaller, lighter device that attaches to the user via an ergonomic holster system. Weighing only 14 ounces (400 grams), the AvaLung 2 is low profile, completely adjustable, unobtrusive and compatible with outerwear, packs and beacons.

The AvaLung has proven its utility and theory in both controlled burials and real time field use. In Alaska last April, a helicopter ski guide was buried unexpectedly and was able to breathe and relax until he was rescued. In May, test data from the research burials was reported in the prestigious Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA). For more background information on the current AvaLung visit the new Flash website www.AvaLung.com.

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

November 17, 2000—Salt Lake City, UT
US and Canadian National Telemark Teams select Scarpa as Exclusive Boot Supplier

Black Diamond Equipment and Scarpa Telemark boots announced two separate exclusive sponsorships with the United States Telemark Ski Association (USTSA) and Telemark Ski Canada. Responsible for the National Telemark Ski Race Teams, these groups compete on the international circuit in the various disciplines that compose the World Cup Telemark Circuit.

Founded in 1994, the USTSA promotes telemark skiing through educational, regional, national and international events that range from instructional and demonstration to race and free ski competitions. Likewise, Telemark Ski Canada participates in the international FIS races and focuses on developing and promoting the sport of telemark skiing.

With speculation that telemark skiing will soon become an Olympic sport, the development of national teams and competition on the FIS circuit is accelerating. Currently 16 international events are scheduled for the coming winter in Scandanavia, Switerland, France and North America.

“Black Diamond and Scarpa are excited to support the US and Canadian teams as they compete around the world,” states Jordy Margid, Black Diamond Equipment Product Manager, “the teams and individuals are great ambassadors for the sport.” In fact, racing on Scarpa T-Race boots and Fritschi Skyhoy bindings, US team member Reid Sabin became the first American to win the overall World Cup title last year. Cody Thompson McCarthy was second overall in the Women’s World Cup rankings. Sabin won the brutal Classic Race last year at Big Mountain. MT, with a time of 2:55.2. The Classic combines giant slalom, skate sprints, nordic distance jumps, big mountain rollers and banks. Swiss, Tony Burn finished second and USA racer Chris Rice placed third.

“Traditionally Scarpa has led the field in innovation and performance,” explains Vince Varga President of Telemark Ski Canada, “historically they have been a real personal and team favorite for Telemark Ski Canada.”

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

May 2, 2000—Salt Lake City, UT
The Journal of the American Medical Association Features Black Diamond Equipment's AvaLung

The respected Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) will report on the effectiveness of the Black Diamond AvaLung as an artificial breathing device during snow burials in tomorrow’s May 3rd edition. Results of this study – Respiration During Snow Burial Using an Artifical Air Pocket - suggest that the AvaLung may prolong survival of avalanche burial victims.

This is a major landmark for outdoor manufacturer Black Diamond and the development of the AvaLung - where a prestigious medical journal acknowledges the research and methodology used in testing this device. It is a rare appearance of an outdoor product in JAMA and a testament to the thorough approach taken by the Black Diamond assembled team of researchers, Dr. Colin Grissom, Dr. Martin Radwin, Chris Harmston, Dr. Ellie Hirshberg, and AvaLung inventor Dr. Thomas Crowley. Their findings represent the most complete body of knowledge in the world on human physiology during snow burial.

Research for this paper was completed during the design, development and testing of Black Diamond’s AvaLung, an avalanche safety device designed to allow a person buried in an avalanche to breathe the air contained in the snow. Subjects were buried in snow of similar density to avalanche debris, first with the AvaLung and then without the AvaLung. Physiological response was monitored throughout the burials and the results compared.

In this paper, the team concludes that use of an AvaLung (an artificial air-pocket device) considerably extended adequate oxygenation compared with breathing with an air pocket in the snow of similar volume. Subjects wearing the AvaLung were buried for a mean time of 58 minutes while control burials without the AvaLung lasted between 5 and 14 minutes before hypoxemia occurred (deficient oxygenation of the blood). At the time of this release, successful use of the AvaLung in the field has been confirmed.

Results of this study indicate that the AvaLung may reduce the probability of asphyxiation before rescue by dramatically extending the amount of time someone can survive while buried in an avalanche. Black Diamond is adamant that the AvaLung in no way replaces the use of sound judgement in the backcountry, proper training, and good partners. 25% of avalanche deaths occur due to trauma and the AvaLung will do nothing to improve survival rates in this category. However, for the 75% of avalanche deaths that occur due to asphyxiation, the AvaLung may increase the probability of survival.

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

March 20, 2000—Salt Lake City, UT
North Americans Dominate World Cup Ice Climbing Finals

By sweeping the last two events, Black Diamond climbers Will Gadd and Kim Csizmazia finished the Ice World Cup (IWC) victorious claiming the overall Men’s and Women’s championship titles. Competition venues included Pitzal, Austria; Saas-Fee, Switzerland; Are, Sweden; and Kirov, Russia.

Considered underdogs on the tour, the only two North Americans in the field triumphed over a host of strong European climbers and National Teams from France and Russia. "It was both the best and worst experience of my life," stated Gadd as he ran for a flight headed back to his home in Canmore, Canada. Both Gadd and his partner Csizmazia eked out an existence as traveling vagabond ice climbers, fueled largely by their desire to compete and proudly represent their sponsor - Salt Lake City based climbing manufacturer Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. Not afforded the lavish accommodations of the larger sponsored European teams, Gadd and Csizmazia at times felt very far from home.

Overcoming surprise rule changes, judging controversy and cultural barriers; Gadd and Csizmazia eventually prevailed, rising above the challenges to reach not only the top of the man-made competition ice walls but also the upper tier of the podium.

The IWC is an international competition held over the course of a winter at locations throughout Europe and Russia. Man made ice climbing walls provide the venue for these difficult events much like indoor climbing walls are used for climbing competitions. In recent years the popularity of ice climbing has skyrocketed in North America, in the form of Ice Climbing Festivals and Ice Climbing Competitions.

While ice climbing and mountaineering have great heritage in Europe, the significance of Gadd and Csizmazia’s efforts point to both the rising level of skill in North America and the surge in popularity of these sports.

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

October 21, 1999—Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Equipment, Ltd. Gains ISO 9001 Certification

Black Diamond Equipment achieved ISO 9001 certification; an international quality standard which is granted to companies with systems in place to control and continuously improve on its design, manufacture, testing, and servicing of product. Companies which do not have ISO 9001, or the lower 9002 or 9003 certifications must re-submit their full line of hardware annually to ensure production processes continue to meet the standards outlined by the CEN and UIAA.

Attaining ISO 9001, the highest level of certification, underscores Black Diamond’s ongoing commitment to design and manufacture the best climbing and backcountry gear possible through design innovation and manufacturing excellence. What this certification means to the consumer is that the final products which come to market meet both the rigorous governing CEN safety requirements, as well as the ISO standards which brings the benefits of continued design innovation, manufacture and testing.

Black Diamond’s commitment to innovation is evidenced by the introduction of the AvaLung, Skyhoy, Micro Camalots, and Paranoia climbing shoes. Each of these new products offer significant innovation in their specific market segment. In fact, during the development and testing of the AvaLung snow safety vest, Black Diamond has amassed the most extensive research data on avalanche burial physiology in the world. Similarly, the Skyhoy is the first step-in DIN releasable tele binding; Micro Camalots bring double axle camming devices to smaller sizes, and the Paranoia is the first double cambered climbing shoe for steep gymnastic climbing.

Black Diamond's pursuit of innovation requires significant investments in Research and Development, as well as parallel efforts in Quality Assurance and Quality Control. The ISO 9001 certification is a major commitment to Black Diamond's ongoing support of their core markets.

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. Black Diamond's family of brands including Ascension, Beal Ropes, Bibler Tents, Franklin Climbing Equipment and SCARPA Mountain Boots encompass product offerings which run the gamut from indoor climbing to year round outdoor pursuits.

July 21, 2005, Salt Lake City, UT Black Diamond Bouldering Emerges From Franklin Climbing Equipment

July 21, 2005, Salt Lake City, UT
Black Diamond Bouldering Emerges From Franklin Climbing Equipment