Gary Fisher Bicycles announced that it will end the two year sponsorship arrangement with jumper (and MBA photo rider) Chris Duncan at the end of 2005. The relationship between the two has been a good one from both a product and promotional standpoint, but differences in priorities require that the two parties head in separate directions for the future.
Chris Duncan aims to focus more on Bikeskills.com where he teaches and does outreach programs. Gary Fisher, while supportive of this work, needs an athlete that is more focused on competition. Chris has spent many years in competition prior to joining with Gary Fisher, primarily as an X-Games BMX dirt jumper. He looks to reduce the amount of time he spends traveling to events, choosing only select events and competitions to attend.
"It?s been very fulfilling to work with Fisher," says Duncan. "During the past two years I've worn many different hats involved in our agreement. My favorite area of work was in product consulting and testing. I look forward to seeing riders enjoy what we have come up with for years to come"
The relationship is ending on good terms. Gary Fisher plans to use Chris Duncan?s image through the end of the year to promote their freeride products. The company will offer more opportunities to other current Fisher athletes while also intending to hire a high profile athlete to represent the brand in competition. |