PPIHC Poster Art Contest Winner Announced

PPIHC
April 30, 2026

PPIHC REVEALS WINNING POSTER ART SUBMISSION

Selected from a record field of entries, winning artwork captures the spirit of the Race to the Clouds

Colorado Springs, Colorado, April 30, 2026 – The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, has announced Jay Weets of Monument, Colorado, as the winner of the 2026 PPIHC Poster Art Contest. The PPIHC received a record number of entries in the contest’s fourth year, as part of the Tom Osborne Community Engagement Initiative.

Weets’ original design, Legacy, was selected as this year’s winning submission, honoring the spirit and history of the Race to the Clouds. Inspired by the 2026 event theme, “The World’s Race, America’s Mountain – A Colorado Legacy,” Weets’ artwork reflects the evolution and legacy of the Hill Climb. The piece also incorporates Colorado’s 150th anniversary and the 250th anniversary of the United States, milestones celebrated as part of this year’s event theme.

“I am a fan of Jay’s artwork. It’s deceptive simplicity and creativity brings to life the powerful connection of the race and Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain,” said Melissa Eickhoff, CEO of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. “The design reflects the legacy of this event while tying beautifully into this year’s race theme. We’re thrilled to recognize his work as this year’s winning entry.”

A graphic designer, illustrator and muralist with more than 30 years of experience, Weets said his goal was to create a piece that was visually striking while honoring the event’s long history.

“My art style is bold, colorful and meant to grab the viewer’s attention,” said Weets. “I used three different cars from three different eras to show the legacy of the Hill Climb – and made them look like each was climbing upward toward the summit of Pikes Peak.”

Weets credits a lifelong connection to cars and racing for influencing both his work and this year’s winning submission. Growing up around his father’s classic car restoration projects helped shape his appreciation for automotive design, reflected in the bold lines and technical detail of the poster.

As the 2026 Poster Art Contest winner, Weets receives a $1,000 cash award and will sign complimentary copies of his winning poster for fans during Fan Fest, presented by Toyo Tires, on Friday, June 19, in Downtown Colorado Springs. Limited quantities will be available, and fans are encouraged to stop by the PPIHC Info Booth to receive a signed poster while supplies last.

VOTE FOR THE PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNER

Beginning Tuesday, May 5 at 9 a.m. MT, fans may vote for their favorite design from the six honorable mention posters on PPIHC social media channels.

The People’s Choice winning artist will receive a $250 award, with fan voting offering another opportunity to celebrate the creativity inspired by the Race to the Clouds.