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07/02/2019 12:00 AMIt’s official: Denali, the Guilford-based outdoor product retailer, is closing its doors. According to a note posted today on the company website, its Old Saybrook location will remain open for a closeout sale; the Mohegan Sun location was also open at press time, though the Branford, Trumbull, and Rhode Island locations had been closed earlier.
The company, which started as Trailblazer in New Haven 25 years ago, was an active participant in the local outdoors community, including sponsoring the Run the Gauntlet races, the most recent of which was scheduled for Aug. 18 at Bishop’s Orchards and which was canceled on July 1, ahead of the formal Denali closing notice.
Denali posted the following message to its customers at denalioutdoor.com:
“After 25 years in business, it is with a heavy heart that we relay the news that Denali will be closing its doors for good. This was an extremely difficult decision, but after months of trying we sadly could not find a responsible path forward.
“Thank you to all of our wonderful customers with whom we formed deep bonds over the years. It was the day to day interaction with you that made this journey worthwhile. We would also like to thank our employees for all of their hard work, dedication and friendship.
“What began in the early nineties as Trailblazer in New Haven grew to encompass seven stores in two states. It was an honor to serve our local outdoor and athletic communities as well as to support local environmental and youth organizations with The Denali Foundation. We are very proud of what we accomplished and we hope we provided our communities with lasting memories and inspiration.
“Beginning July 2 we will host a store closing sale at our Old Saybrook location. Between now and when we close you may redeem gift cards at our Old Saybrook location only.
“Thank you all for your decades of loyalty and support.
“Best, The Denali & Trailblazer Team”
JB Sports, which organized the Run the Gauntlet series, sent the following notice to race participants on July 1:
“You may have heard of the recent closings of the Denali stores. Unfortunately, this also means that the 2019 Denali Run the Gauntlet Race at Bishops Orchards set for Aug. 18 will be canceled. We cannot put on a successful event without the financial, logistical, and staff support from Denali. All registered participants will be issued a full refund in the next week. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Denali had deep roots in the running community, and we are saddened to see it close. We hope to see you at some of our upcoming events this summer.”