Mountain Hardwear Athletes start 2011 with Wins and Awards

Mountain Hardwear, a leading manufacturer of technical outdoor apparel, equipment and accessories and sponsor of several top mountain athletes is proud to congratulate Dawn Glanc and Mike Libecki on their significant unique achievements that came to light over the weekend.

At the famed Ouray Ice Festival on Saturday, Mountain Hardwear athlete Dawn Glanc won first place in the women’s division in the mixed climbing competition. She beat out a small group of tough competitors placing seventh overall in the field of men and women. This is Dawn’s second win in the past three years at the Ouray Ice Festival, the biggest international gathering of ice climbers in the United States. “What an amazing day. I have to thank the crowd. Their cheers and support really pumped me up. I never expected to win at Ouray twice. This win is icing on the cake,” Glanc said.

In addition, it was announced this weekend, by Alpinist Magazine, that Mountain Hardwear athlete Mike Libecki is one of seven individuals or teams to receive the prestigious Mugs Stump Award for 2011. The Award, created in 1993 in memory of Mugs Stump, one of North America’s most prolific and visionary climbers, provides recipients with funds toward an attempt of an outstanding challenge proposed in the spirit of adventure and exploration. Proposed climbs should also emphasize light, fast, leave-no-trace climbing. “It is an honor to receive the Mugs Stump Award. The award is a testament to the wonderful community and tribe of climbers that exists today. It creates enthusiasm to keep asking the question: Why ration passion?” said Libecki. His objective is to make a solo attempt on one of the northern-most big walls on the planet on an unnamed peak in Russia this summer. “This expedition will be one of, if not the most challenging expedition of my life,” he continued.

ABOUT MOUNTAIN HARDWEAR:
Mountain Hardwear, Inc., based in Richmond, California, designs and markets cutting edge mountaineering and outdoor apparel, equipment and accessories for ultimate performance in extreme conditions. Established in 1993 by a group of outdoor industry veterans, Mountain Hardwear is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Columbia Sportswear Company. Mountain Hardwear distributes its products through specialty outdoor and sporting goods retailers throughout the United States and 58 countries worldwide. Mountain Hardwear has won numerous product and customer service awards since its inception, reflecting the company’s commitment and passion to innovation and service. It’s our relentless drive to create the absolute best that makes us who we are. Mountain Hardwear. www.MountainHardwear.com

Photo by Jeremiah Watt