Innovative trail-blazer behind the KIMM, & Karrimat steps back from Original Mountain Marathon.
Legendary outdoors design innovator,
Mike Parsons, has
stepped down from an active role with the
Original Mountain Marathon Company
to focus on other interests.
Mike and one of his
legendary shirts...
Mike was the man behind Karrimor, a business that began making cycle
panniers in Rossendale and expanded into one of the best known names in
the outdoors. In his time as Karrimor MD, he created iconic products
like the Alpiniste packs, the Karrimat, the Fformat back system and
more.
He also came up with the Karrimor International Mountain Marathon
event, which spawned a host of similar races and eventually became the
Original Mountain Marathon when Mike parted company with Karrimor.
What's Next?
With OMM, Mike continued creating innovative lightweight products
including the 'lean weight' range of packs. In 2009, Ark Consultants
took a stake in OMM allowing Mike to spend more time in the hills and
on other projects:
“2009 has been an interesting year for me. “says Mike. “With
the involvement of the Ark team I have been able to get out into the
mountains much more and spend more time pursuing my academic interests
in innovation at Lancaster University.
"My future plans include, with my colleague Professor Mary Rose,
“Innov_ex 10” to be held on Wednesday, 28 April 2010 and the continued
development of our innovation courses for undergraduates, postgraduates
and business.
"As I step away from OMM Ltd I wish the Ark team every success.”
Tom Williams, MD of the Ark Group says “The outdoor industry would not
be where it is today without the influence of people like Mike Parsons,
a true pioneer. We aim to build on Mike’s legacy and ensure
that the OMM remains an outlet for the enduring spirit and
innovation. Jen Longbottom, Mike’s sister, will continue as
organiser for the Original Mountain Marathon.”
Mike's one of the most interesting and most innovative people in the
outdoors industry and we're looking forward to seeing what happens
next, not least with the ongoing Innov_ex conferences.
More OMM information at
www.theomm.com
