VASHON ISLAND, Wash. (October 14, 2004) – Legends have been made on K2 Skis for more than forty years and it is time to add the name Shane McConkey to that list. McConkey signed a sponsorship agreement with the ski brand on Thursday morning and the two sides are pumped on the deal. Shane will be riding and promoting the latest in K2 skis, helmets and poles, and will be actively involved in product development to ensure K2’s wider-waisted Apache freeride skis fit the style and performance needs of all skiers. McConkey joins the likes of K2 legends Glen Plake and Seth Morrison in addition to athletes Pep Fujas, Mark Abma, Chris Turpin and Rory Silva.

"It’s natural for Shane to be riding K2s, his attitude and personality embodies everything that K2 is about, balancing a humorous personality with a serious and passionate approach to the sport," says Ski Team Manager Mike Gutt. "Shane is always looking for creative ways to challenge the limits of the sport and just like K2, he does everything his own unique way."

McConkey has a long list of accomplishments on skis including medals in both the X Games and Gravity games, top awards from ESPN, Freeze and Powder magazines, but it is his film segments that have built his cult-like following. His skiing speaks for itself, but his personality and an ability to think beyond convention keeps people on the edge of their seats wondering what he is going to do next. During the past two years Shane has combined his love for skiing and BASE jumping, taking both sports to new limits.

"K2 has always been the most creative company in the ski industry. They have set the standard for style, image and most importantly progressive ski design for the last 30 years," says McConkey. "It’s pretty obvious that the people at K2 are skiers. They are more in touch with what's going on in this sport and what needs to be done and made than any other company hands down."

Check out McConkey in Matchstick Production’s latest flick "Yearbook" and look for him to be joining the rest of the K2 athletes on the Glen Plake Down Home Tour this season. Visit http://www.k2skis.com for more information on K2’s 2004/05 skis, poles, helmets, goggles, accessories, Factory Team news and updates on the women’s Alliance.