Gregory launches 'We've Been There" contest as it gears up for 30th

As Gregory Mountain Products prepares to celebrate its upcoming 30th anniversary, the California-based backpack manufacturer is seeking stories from its customers that exemplify the adventurous spirit with which people have used Gregory packs over the last three decades. From now until July 17, 2006, via its ‘We’ve Been There’ contest, Gregory is asking customers to relay stories of adventures they’ve had using Gregory packs.

“The premise is simple – for the last 30 years, we’ve made packs that make it happen for adventurers in some of the world’s most demanding places,” said Paul Gagner, vice president of sales and marketing. “Because of the quality and innovation we’ve brought to the pack market, we have literally ‘been there’ – climbing the world’s highest peaks, exploring its remotest corners, doing long-distance treks, ultra runs, glacier traverses and big walls. We’ve regularly heard informally from friends and some of these people about their adventures using Gregory gear. But 30 years of history means there are a lot more good stories than the ones we’ve already heard, and we’d like people to share them.”

‘We’ve Been There’ contest entries will be judged on creativity of presentation, authenticity, magnitude of the adventure and originality. Entries may consist of a postcard, photo, letter, topographical map, video, e-mail or any other medium that creatively conveys the adventure. Creativity is encouraged, and to get a better feel for an adventure or travels, detail also is encouraged.

In late July, just before it introduces its new products for 2007, which marks its 30th anniversary, Gregory will choose one grand-prize winner and three runner-up winners. The grand prizes winner can select Gregory products of their choice up to $500 in value, and the three runners-up each can select products up to $250 in value.

For more information, visit www.gregorypacks.com/wevebeenthere. All entries must also include a completed copy of the official entry form, which is available for download on the contest page web site.

Electronic entries can be sent to: wevebeenthere@gregorypacks.com and mailed entries to: Gregory Packs, Attention: We’ve Been There, 27969 Jefferson Ave., Temecula CA 92590.

For more information about Gregory packs, to view the entire line, or for downloadable images, visit www.gregorypacks.com.

About Gregory Packs

Since 1977, Gregory Packs has been the market leader in expedition, backpacking and day packs, and has become world-renowned for setting standards for durability, comfort and performance. In 2005, the company won awards for its pack designs from such diverse media outlets as Backpacker Magazine, Consumers Digest and Alpinist Magazine. Responsible for many industry firsts in backpacking fit and design, the Gregory research and design team, headed by company founder Wayne Gregory, continues to lead the way in innovative backpack technology and performance. Based in Temecula, Calif., the company in recent years has expanded into lightweight packs, sport-specific packs, and travel, commuter and lifestyle products.

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