Shimano UK Ltd are delighted to have secured the services of Dave Mallin & associates under the Shimano Hard Core banner as well as firming up a long standing partnership with Essex’s very own Derek Ritchie.Dave Mallin regarded by many as the top UK carp angler is heading up Shimano Hard Core alongside Alan Welsh, Bill Dawson & Nick Helleur who will assist in the design, testing and promotion of carp equipment and accessories.
With several 40’s and 50’s UK carp between them Hard Core represent an incredible wealth of experience plus total commitment and focus in their fishing approach.
Although the UK big carp fishing scene has changed completely in the last decade getting much harder, requiring much more planning, commitment & total dedication during this period Dave Mallin has been at the forefront of the UK big carp scene.
“The Shimano Hard Core concept was down to Dave, he selected his companions representing a wealth of knowledge and information that now will be at Shimano’s disposal.
“Dave and I have been carefully negotiating and planning this for several weeks but from day one I think we both knew that it was going to happen. I don’t believe in coincidences and when Dave rang me up at the same time Shimano were looking to underpin this sector of the angling market I felt confident he was the man one we where looking for.”
“He had already got a very high regard for the Shimano branding whilst Shimano fully comprehend the magnitude of his achievements whilst running his own successful business.”
“With so much competition in the carp market place these days it was important to sign someone fresh with a commercial head on his shoulders as well as being a number one carp angler, I am fully confident that the Shimano Hard Core will deliver the goods”.
Del Ritchie who has been actively involved with Shimano has also been taken on as an independent consultant under a separate package, Derek has done brilliant PR for Shimano for quite sometime on an ad hoc basis it is fitting that he get rewarded for all his efforts. His reputation and eagerness especially towards the younger carper has been massive and as a natural showman ideal for this role.
Jan also revealed that there was also another secondary network of anglers who are affiliated with Shimano, “Some of the lads on our books are unable to come out of the closet so to speak, but suffice to say that throughout the whole length and breadth of the UK we have now a very cohesive network of carp anglers”.
Shimano Hard Core
Dave Mallin 33
Based in the midlands and heading up the Shimano Hard Core Unit , Dave represents the “Hard Core” of big fish angling in Britain, determination & dedication have brought him success at the highest level. With carp to 37lb off the surface, two different 50lb fish to 55lb 8oz and five 40’s from the toughest venues in the country, it’s no wonder he’s regarded as one of the best.
Bill Dawson 41
Based in Wiltshire he brings in over 25 years of carping experience & wisdom to the unit combining technical ability that is second to none. Excellent long range caster and floater angler. In 1996 Bill successfully landed the much prized “Mary” from Wraysbury at 55lb 8oz.
Alan Welch 31
Based in Surrey captor of 40’s from three different waters. Alan goes about his business quietly and successfully, he is highly adaptable at all aspects of catching carp. Personal best Basil 46lb 14oz from Yateley.
Nick Helleur 29
Based in the Colne Valley Nick is the youngest member of the Shimano Hard Core but with an impressive list of big carp to over 40lb. Another highly talented individual who catches carp from a variety of venues including canals, rivers and gravel pits Nick’s forward thinking ideas and enthusiasm made him a natural choice.
The Don, Derek Ritchie 49
A name that needs little introduction Del has been taken on in his own right, his special brand of entertainment is legendary & matched only by his fishing prowess. His involvemnet with the media and the tackle industry plus his terrific work with the younger carper has secured him a place with Shimano. He will assist in promotion & developing of tackle and equipment for Shimano UK Ltd in a very special arena of operation in his own inimitable style.
