SOUTHSTATE CELEBRATES VOLUNTEERS BEHIND RACE TO THE CLOUDS
Volunteers have long been at the heart of the Pikes Peak Hill Climb, giving their time and talents to help bring the Race to the Clouds to life each year. In 2026, SouthState Bank continued its support as the official sponsor of the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Volunteer Program, helping recognize the individuals who make the event possible.
“Supporting the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Volunteer Program reflects SouthState Bank’s long-standing commitment to investing in the communities we serve and strengthening the connections that make Colorado Springs such a vibrant place to live and work,” said April O’Neil, VP, Commercial Relationship Manager at SouthState Bank.
More than 100 volunteers supported the Pikes Peak Hill Climb throughout Race Week this year, filling essential roles at Fan Fest, during mountain setup and on Race Day.
“Volunteers are the beating heart of our organization, and this race wouldn’t have a 110-year history without them,” said Melissa Eickhoff, CEO of the Pikes Peak Hill Climb. “We don’t get to interact with them as much as we’d like, so we treasure their stories and value partners like SouthState Bank who help us honor their passion and service.”
SouthState Bank recognized five volunteers this year, with Brian Wruck, Roberto Rodriguez, Jill Suarez-Flynn, Brittany Gillaspie and Jeff Walker each receiving a Visa gift card courtesy of SouthState Bank.
Among the honorees, Roberto Rodriguez (pictured above) with his family and fellow volunteers, has volunteered with the Pikes Peak Hill Climb for more than 23 years, but his history on Pikes Peak goes back even further. In 1976, he raced his motorcycle in the 250cc Sportsman class. Since then, he has volunteered at Fan Fest and at locations across the mountain, including Ski Area, O’Reilly Auto Parts Halfway Picnic Grounds and 9 Mile.
“What I enjoy most is the camaraderie and friendliness of the other volunteers,” said Rodriguez.
On the other end of the spectrum, this year was Jeff Walker’s first year volunteering for the Pikes Peak Hill Climb. A Colorado Springs resident for 25 years, Walker discovered the volunteer opportunity on the PPIHC website just two months before the race and decided it was time to get involved. Walker spent his first Race Week volunteering at Fan Fest and on the mountain.
One moment at Devil’s Playground stood out. Walker helped a young girl with a disability reach a viewing spot among the boulders and saw the excitement it brought her and her family.
“Truly, a one-of-a-kind moment in a one-of-a-kind location — one I will not soon forget,” said Walker.
Brian Wruck, has spent the past four years as a volunteer, assisting in hospitality and helping spectators near the Start Line.
Some of his favorite experiences have been talking with young fans about what they enjoy about the race and meeting fellow volunteers, including those who travel more than 1,000 miles each year to be part of the event.
For Jill Suarez-Flynn, 2026 marked her first year as a volunteer after attending the race as a spectator many times. She helped guide spectators on Race Day while getting a behind-the-scenes look at the drivers, crews and people who bring the event together.
She already plans to return as a volunteer in 2027.
Brittany Gillaspie has volunteered for the past two years. As a motorsports and outdoor enthusiast who lives at the base of Pikes Peak, she saw volunteering as a natural way to become part of an event that brings those interests together. This year, she was stationed at Devils Playground.
“Being up on the mountain and having that hands-on exposure with the car noises, the smells and the excitement all around you makes it a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Gillaspie.
Volunteer registration for the 105th Running of the Pikes Peak Hill Climb will open in March 2027. Those interested in volunteering or learning more can contact info@ppihc.org.
Photos: Provided Photos
