Berghaus and Challenge 8000 man Alan Hinkes have
apparently parted company ending a relationship that's lasted the
best part of 20 years.
Hinkes, who became the first Briton to climb all 14 of the world's
8000-meter peaks when he summited Kangchenjunga in 2005 became
synonymous with the north eastern-based outdoors brand along with Sir
Chris Bonington and young gun Leo Houlding.
As well as using Berghaus gear on the hill, he also represented
the brand at shows and other events and through his regular lecture
tours. The last time we spoke to Alan he told us he intended to write
a book covering Challenge 8000 with an emphasis on photography.
Berghaus hasn't officially commented on the parting, but is quoted
in a current outdoors trade magazine as saying that it was amicable.
Hinkes is no longer listed among the Berghaus Team on the official
web site at www.berghaus.com.
Established Berghaus supported athletes like Bonington, Houlding
and the Huber brothers have now been joined by the likes of Norwegian
base-jumper Anniken Binz, mountain bike free-rider Rob Jarman and
Spanish climbers Carlos Suarez and Eric Lopez.
There's likely to be speculation that the move points towards a
desire by the brand to be seen as younger and more dynamic. The
recent Big Wall range underlined the brand's technical credentials
and ability to produce highly technical clothing and equipment, while
later this year, it plans to release a new range called 'Ator'.
'Ator' is described as: 'Designed with the younger generation of
urbanites in mind who have to work hard during the week but want to
make the most of their weekends by getting out there and trying new
things, Ator is a fresh look for a group who are redefining outdoor
athletics and mountain sports.'
Update Berghaus Brand President Richard Cotter
comments:
"Alan's contract expired at the end of last year and following a
long association, both Berghaus and Alan have decided not to take up
the option to renew for 2007, allowing Alan and ourselves the freedom
to pursue other activities.
"Alan has formed a major part of Berghaus history and we were
pleased to support him in completing Challenge 8000 This is an
amicable arrangement and we wish Alan well for the future."
