Black Diamond Equipment®, a global innovator in climbing, skiing, and mountain sports equipment, kicks off the first race of the 2019 Cirque Series as a title sponsor this weekend in Brighton, Utah.

“Whether climbing, skiing or mountain running, Black Diamond aims to be synonymous with all challenging pursuits in the mountains,” says Jan-Willem Driessen, vice-president of global marketing for Black Diamond Equipment. “What organizer Julian Carr has created with the Cirque Series aligns directly with BD’s ethos – moving fast and light in the mountains. We are inspired to join this rapidly growing movement of passionate mountain runners.”

In three years, the Cirque Series has established itself as the premiere mountain running series in North America, featuring six races at iconic ski areas across the Rocky Mountain west and Alaska.

This year’s series includes races at:

  • JUNE 29 – BRIGHTON
  • JULY 13 – ALTA
  • JULY 27 – ALYESKA
  • AUG 10 – ARAPAHOE BASIN
  • AUG 24 – SUN VALLEY
  • SEPT 7 – SNOWBIRD

From the ski area base, each race route brings runners up steep mountain ridges, glacial cirques, into the alpine zone, and back down again. Back at the finish, the race village includes live music, food, drink, and vendor tents. The race is as hardcore as you make it, with a category for pro, expert, and sport participants. Prizes include a cash payout for the pros and epic gear packages for the expert and sport groups.

Black Diamond designs the equipment runners need to succeed in the mountains. For years, Black Diamond has been the leader and first choice among mountain runners for carbon running poles and headlamps. In the last year, Black Diamond has introduced the lightest wind shell on the market, innovative trail running packs and hydration solutions.

“Cirque Series couldn’t be more happy to partner with Black Diamond,” states Cirque Series founder and pro athlete Julian Carr. “When you think of a world class mountain brand, BD certainly fits that criteria. Since we’re establishing ourselves as the premiere mountain running race series in the USA, having the street cred and validation of this partnership is optimal for the Cirque Series as we grow.”