Behind the Wheel Archives - Page 6 of 9 - Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

ROMANIAN HILL CLIMB CHAMPION JEROME FRANCE TACKLES PIKES PEAK HILL CLIMB

Colorado Springs, CO – Drivers from twelve nations traveled to America’s Mountain in June to challenge the 12.42-mile course in The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo. Jerome France, who makes his home in Bucharest, Romania, represented his home country in the 2024 Race to the Clouds as part of the RD Limited race team led by PPIHC course recordholder, Romain Dumas.

RACING TOWARD PIKES PEAK

Behind the wheel of a 2011 Porsche 997 GT3 RS, France came to Pikes Peak with not only a well-prepared car, but extensive hill climbing experience.

Recipient of the Under 25s Young Trophy in 2002, France took part in the French Hillclimbing Championship series in the BMW M3 Group N class. He collected three class wins in both 2001 and 2002 in the same series. He recalled receiving the best racing advice at about that same time, “When I was in my first racing season at 20 years old, and full of enthusiasm, a veteran simply told me, ‘If you want to finish first, first you have to finish.’”

France participated in the Romanian Super Rally Hill Climb Championship winning the Formula Renault 2.0L event in 2021, and the Nova Proto NP03 in 2022 and 2023. He was also the Romanian Master Hill Climb champion in the Norma M20FC V8 NME in 2023, and looking for a repeat in 2024.

“It felt like an adolescent getaway with the RD Limited team—all of us in the same house,” France shared. “The atmosphere with the team was amazing. So much preparation for 10 minutes of racing! Some people think we’re a bit crazy, but that’s the charm of life and passion. I’m very grateful to everyone I shared this adventure with for making it magical!”

Arriving in Colorado just one week prior to Race Day, France had full confidence in the #37 Porsche prepared by Dumas’ team. Despite limited practice time, especially on the upper section, France laid down an impressive rookie time – 10:44.501. The result put France on the podium in third place, behind veteran racers David Donohue and Kathryn Mead, in the Time Attack 1 division.

Reflecting on his rookie run on the mountain, France shared, “When I was a child, my father was a hill climb racer in France, and he received a VHS copy of the film Climb Dance featuring Ari Vatanen and Peugeot. I think I watched that video over 100 times! ” France continued, “This experience was fantastic for me. It was a childhood dream to participate.”

“I enjoyed the climb and making a clean run. The last section, however, was a new experience for me, and I didn’t have reference points, since I could only drive up once during the week under special conditions. I was thrilled to be on the podium and to bring this memory home. I loved the camaraderie and the constant kindness around the event. It’s a race that demands a lot of humility, which suits me well.”

THE NEXT CHALLENGE

After his third place finish on Pikes Peak, France returned home to finish his racing season and focus on what’s next, sharing, “I’m participating in the Masters Hill Climb Championship in Romania, where I’m leading before the final race on October 11-13.”

GET TO KNOW JEROME FRANCE

Fun Facts:

“My 11-year-old son is a motocross rider, and I’m a nervous wreck on the sidelines—I never thought it could be so terrifying to watch!”

“I love snowboarding and have been on several expeditions with helicopter drops on the Kamchatka volcanoes.”

“I am an entrepreneur with several companies in Europe.”

Pikes Peak Hero: “Ari Vatanen, just like in the video I watched!”

Favorite Corner: “Between Glen Cove and Devil’s Playground—it’s the most unique part of the race for me. It’s the section where you need to switch your brain to a different mode.”

What surprised you most about Race Week? “What surprised me the most was the road’s terrain in the final section. It’s hard to imagine from a distance just how significant those undulations are.”

What are your top three picks for visitors to do or see in Romania?

“You must absolutely drive the Transalpina and the Transfăgărășan, two beautiful roads. Top Gear called the Transfăgărășan the best road in the world—it would be the perfect setting for launching a Pikes Peak series in Europe, and I’m ready to take charge of it!”

“For sightseeing, Maramureș region is stunning with many monasteries to visit, the Danube Delta is a unique ecosystem to explore, and of course, the Carpathian Mountains with Dracula’s castle.”

“The UNTOLD music festival – one of the best in the world!”

Jerome France in 2024 Post-Race Interview

Photos by: Larry Chen Photo; Larry Chen, Luis Garcia, Charles Zhou; Emerging-Europe.com – Craig Turp-Balazs

ABOUT THE COLORADO SPRINGS AIRPORT

The Colorado Springs Airport provides a travel experience that prioritizes friendliness, safety, and comfort. Enjoy the speed and convenience of a small airport with options on daily nonstop flights and hundreds of connections worldwide. COS is committed to delivering exceptional service and a warm welcome to all our passengers, making your journey memorable from start to finish. For more information visit FlyCOS.com, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn. Your adventure begins here at the Colorado Springs Airport.

Contact:
Lisa Haight
Communications Manager / Historian
lisa@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400
www.ppihc.org

JAPAN’S SATOSHI YAGI RETURNS TO PIKES PEAK IN SMALL BUT MIGHTY TOYOTA STARLET

Colorado Springs, CO – The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, has a global appeal and is viewed by most as the pinnacle of hill climb racing around the world. In 2024, competitors from across the US were joined by those representing 12 countries, including Japan.

Tokyo’s Satoshi Yagi made the journey to the US for his second consecutive race to the top of America’s Mountain. From behind the wheel of his 1990 Toyota Starlet GT, Yagi prepared to challenge the mountain in the Pikes Peak Open division.

INSPIRED BY THE MONSTER

Yagi, a relative newcomer to Pikes Peak at the age of 53 recalled the first time he heard of the PPIHC. “It was in 1990 when Nobuhiro “Monster” Tajima was featured in a Japanese motorsport magazine,” he shared.

Yagi has competed well in Japan’s BRIG Hill Climb Challenge Series for more than five years, winning the Open B class overall in 2020.

So, what drew him to the mountain? “For me,” Yagi shared, “Pikes Peak was a longing. I enjoyed hill climb racing in Japan and wanted to drive the most famous and majestic hill climb in the world, Pikes Peak.”

MAKING THE STARLET RACE READY

While Yagi set up the car’s engine himself, he shared that a lot of people helped him get to Pikes Peak including Zero E Works, Koyama Speed, Road Race Engineering, along with Arai Agriculture and Forestry.

Yagi shares his passion for the Starlet with enthusiasts around the world, announcing, “It’s a small car so it may not be very dynamic, but I love this little Starlet!”

Yagi’s massive effort to bring the racecar to the US, prep it, test it and eventually race it, paid off. He reached the summit in 12:31.200, bettering his time from 2023 by almost two seconds, finishing 12th in the Pikes Peak Open division.

POST PPIHC

Since the 102nd running in June, Yagi explained what’s been keeping him busy. “I participated in the BRIG Hill Climb Series, a hill climb event held in Ena City, Gifu Prefecture, Japan. I was able to restore a black Starlet that had been abandoned in a corner of a factory to race in that event.”

THE GOAL REMAINS THE SAME

Yagi had his sights set on a Starlet record explaining, “My goal for this year’s Pikes Peak was to become the fastest Starlet on the mountain. To do that I needed to beat Mikko Kataja’s 2016 time of 11:42.877, (pictured) but Pikes Peak in 2024 was not easy.”

Describing his first two years on Pikes Peak as a preparation period, Yagi plans to return in 2026 to take on America’s Mountain for the third time. “The next time I challenge it,” Yagi declared, “my goal is to beat this time and set a record for the fastest Starlet.”

GET TO KNOW SATOSHI YAGI

Fun Facts:

“My occupation is an IT worker.”

“If you read my race number #831 in Japanese, it means ‘vegetables’.

“My Pikes Peak challenge was featured in OPTION magazine’s October 2024 issue. This is Japan’s most famous car tuning magazine, and I’ve been obsessed with it since I was a child, so it was a great honor for me.”

Favorite Corner:“The Sump. It’s a complex, three-dimensional corner that’s very difficult to balance. If you push too hard, you won’t be able to turn well. But if you try to be stable, you’ll be very slow.”

What surprised you most about Race Week? “When I participated as a rookie in 2023, I had a lot of trouble. In 2024, I took measures to deal with those problems, but, again, I had a lot of trouble. There were insufficient heat countermeasures for the engine, brakes, clutch, and fuel. I was surprised by this. There were no problems at all during testing in Japan, however, the highest road in Japan is 2000m (6,560 ft) above sea level. Things that are unimaginable in Japan happen at Pikes Peak.”

Who gave you the best racing advice about taking on Pikes Peak? “Mike and Matt of Road Race Engineering in Los Angeles who support my racing activities in the US. They gave me racing advice based on the condition of the race car and what to expect. They helped me with tire pressure, turbo boost control, and troubleshooting. Such reliable partners.”

If you could race any car up Pikes Peak, what would it be: “I’d like to drive the Suzuki Cultus (pictured) that Monster Tajima drove in 1989. I’d like to experience what the first Suzuki race car that legendary driver Monster Tajima built was like.”

Advice for a first-time racer on Pikes Peak: “In my opinion, there are a few corners where you need to be careful. It’s important to memorize the corners. I memorized them by running dozens of times on my PlayStation. If you can remember them, I think you’ll be able to drive Pikes Peak with confidence when you actually drive a race car.”

What are three favorite things to do or see in Tokyo?

“I recommend cycling along the Tama River. If you’re confident in your leg muscles, try cycling up the Fuji Subaru Line on Mt. Fuji.”

“Fresh fish! Try a bowl of rice at a restaurant in a fishing port Odawara Fishing Port and Numazu Fishing Port are close to Tokyo.”

“If you like retro places for drinks, I like Golden Gai in Shinjuku or Harmonica Yokocho in Kichijoji. There are lots of small shops lined up, each with their own personality.”

Satoshi Yagi in his Toyota Starlet make their first ever run to the summit of Pikes Peak in 2023

Photos by: Larry Chen Photo; Larry Chen, Luis Garcia, Payton Smith, Charles Zhou, Jason Zindroski; Yoshiaki Aoyama, Satoshi Yagi, Revvolution.com, Racing On Magazine, Sept 1, 1989.

ABOUT THE COLORADO SPRINGS AIRPORT

Contact:
Lisa Haight
Communications Manager / Historian
lisa@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400
www.ppihc.org

MAZDA ENTHUSIAST ROB DAHM CONQUERS PIKES PEAK IN RX-7

Colorado Springs, CO – Storytelling is a hallmark of the PPIHC. Since the early 1900s, reports of daring drivers and their remarkable machines have become part of the racing lore on the mountain. The 102nd Running of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, provided another opportunity to roll out stories daily. One of the those tales was expertly woven by YouTuber, and PPIHC rookie, Rob Dahm. His first run on Pikes Peak took place in June and he was eager to document the experience and share it with his two million YouTube followers.

Dahm didn’t enter the racing game early on in life, sharing, “I had no experience or focus on racing until I was in my 30s. While I consider myself a builder, I am a YouTuber by trade. So, I started out making as much horsepower as possible in a straight line, then trying to stick that to the tarmac. It wasn’t until I met my goals in straight line racing that I realized I couldn’t build my cars to their full potential if I didn’t know what it was like to pilot a car at the limit of lateral grip.” Dahm didn’t enter the racing game early on in life, sharing, “I had no experience or focus on racing until I was in my 30s. While I consider myself a builder, I am a YouTuber by trade. So, I started out making as much horsepower as possible in a straight line, then trying to stick that to the tarmac. It wasn’t until I met my goals in straight line racing that I realized I couldn’t build my cars to their full potential if I didn’t know what it was like to pilot a car at the limit of lateral grip.”

EMBRACING THE EXPERIENCE

Dahm plotted a course to Pikes Peak taking him from the Radford Racing School in early 2024 where he obtained his SCCA License, to Gridlife at Big Willow, Gingerman and Lime Rock. He spent a lot of days at the track, including Willow Springs and Buttonwillow.

It’s also noteworthy that Dahm set a record in 2023 as the fastest rotary in 1/2 mile racing at 192.3mph.

Once he arrived at Pikes Peak, he experienced and documented the full gamut of race week activity. His 1993 Mazda RX-7 2.0L rotary turbo took 7th in the Pikes Peak Open division and became the fastest rotary-powered RX-7 to take on the famous 12.42 miles.

WHY MAZDA?

“The rotary engine has always been the underdog,” Dahm explained. “What first appealed to me was how different it was. What kept me hooked is how a rotary sounds screaming past at full tilt. I always believed the engine didn’t get as much attention as piston platforms so, I felt as modern fuel and electronics were introduced, there was a lot on the table to modernize the engine.

Once I started earning a reputation as the largest rotary YouTuber, I felt I had to earn that with building the craziest rotary car.”

“On race day, the car performed incredibly well for never lasting more than 8 minutes prior to my official run. I overspooled my Garrett G45 turbo from 100K RPM to 130K RPM as it grabbed every bit of oxygen it could find. Rotaries traditionally run hotter than piston engines and my run reflected that.”

“Without Robin Shute and Paul Gerrard recommending the ‘lift and coast method,’ I wouldn’t have survived the entire run. I qualified doing 131mph through the Picnic Grounds, but on race day at only 117mph to conserve cooling. It worked too, as I boiled the coolant right past the finish line. Now I know why we run water! This shot at the summit is my favorite!”

MAZDA RX-7 MOMENTS ON THE MOUNTAIN

1981 – First RX-7 to race on Pikes Peak, rookie John Woolf, finished second in the Rally division in 13:15.41; another rookie, Rod Millen, entered his RX-7 placing 6th in 13:58.72.

1984-1986 – Rod Millen would settle for second in the Rally division behind course record setters, Michele Mouton and Bobby Unser. Millen’s best time in the RX-7 at that time was 12:04.85.

1991 – Millen won the Pikes Peak Open division, setting a division record and his best time ever in the RX-7 in 11:51.37 on the gravel course.

2024 – Rob Dahm set his sights on a new RX-7 record on the mountain and clinched it with a clocking of 11:04.797.

Dahm shared, “I would LOVE to experience what Rod Millen did while commanding an 11:51 in the dirt. I think that is far more impressive than me doing an 11:04 on tarmac. How the hell did he not overheat?”

POST PPIHC

“I effectively used PPIHC to shake down my brand new build. I took it to Gridlife Lime Rock and shaved five seconds off my previous year’s time while shaking the car down further, before melting everything with the exhaust heat.

I also traveled to Australia for the first time ever, thanks to Haltech, and attended the World Time Attack Challenge to watch some of the fastest cars in the world attempt their one perfect lap.”

When asked about plans to return to America’s Mountain in 2025, Dahm said, “I’ll be submitting my application the moment I’m allowed! I hope the Hill Climb community sees me as a positive addition to the family and invites me back next year! I didn’t participate in Pikes Peak to make a YouTube video, I make YouTube videos so I can continue to participate at Pikes Peak. I want to engineer a car to be the first rotary under 10 minutes. A man can dream!”

GET TO KNOW ROB DAHM

Fun Facts:

“I have a shop cat who was a stray, and quickly became the self-appointed manager of the shop!”

“I was on one episode of The Bachelorette in 2011 before I was sent home without a rose.”

“I wasn’t a YouTuber or engineer originally, but started an IT business when I was young solely with the goal of affording a Lamborghini Diablo.”

“Randomly, I was accepted to college when I was 13. That makes me sound way smarter than I actually am. It was a local community college, but still…”

When did you first learn about the Race to the Clouds? “Seeing Sebastien Loeb’s run on the internet was one of the first jaw dropping moments. Then, realizing people used to race up that mountain in the dirt! I spent countless hours watching compilation videos long before I considered actually driving it myself.”

“I turned down quite a few opportunities to drive up Pikes Peak as a tourist during car rallies. It was too special and sacred to me. I have the same feeling about the Bonneville Salt Flats. Both just embody the American spirit so perfectly.”

What surprised you most about Race Week? “The amount of practice you get. While you don’t get to do the full run until race day, you get to experience the mountain in a more personal sense on the testing days. The biggest surprise is how the entire town of Colorado Springs becomes an extended family/race team when people have issues during race week. I saw some heartbreaks mid-week from other teams, yet we were all out at local shops burning the midnight oil getting parts from other people’s cars to make it to race day.”

Any Pikes Peak heroes? “Hands down, Rod Millen. The myth of his 4WD RX-7s directly inspired me to create the car I’m most known for. Second, David Donner. While filming a Top Gear episode with him, I got to experience the mountain from the passenger seat while he, ever so smoothly, negotiated every turn. When I asked him to pilot my AWD 4 Rotor up the mountain, he made it clear I should be the one in the driver seat. I’m so thankful for both of them.”

Advice for a first-time racer on Pikes Peak: “The same advice countless people gave me. 1) Focus on making it up to the top! 2) If you build your own car it will be 100 times harder. 3) Do 20 minutes of hot lapping in 90-100F degree weather at your local track, Robin Shute taught me that.”

Rob Dahm shares his 2024 PPIHC Run in this Behind-the-Scenes Video

Photos by: Larry Chen Photo; Larry Chen, Luis Garcia, Charles Zhou, Jason Zindroski; PPIHC Archives; Rob DahmABOUT THE COLORADO SPRINGS AIRPORT

Contact:
Lisa Haight
Communications Manager / Historian
lisa@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400
www.ppihc.org

PPIHC ROOKIE RICK LIND BRINGS LAND SPEED RECORD TRUCK TO RACE TO THE CLOUDS

Colorado Springs, CO – Memories of the 102nd Running of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, are still fresh for race fans and competitors. South Carolina’s Rick Lind brought his 1967 Chevrolet C-10 to the mountain to run in the Pikes Peak Open division, finishing in 12:13.257 exclaiming afterward, “It’s been an obsession. Not a day goes by that I don’t think about it.”

SPEED SCENARIOS

Lind shared his unique racing backstory and how his love of speed was born. “Growing up in rural Arizona, I got started in racing a little later in life than most people. I began restoring and building muscle cars in my late 20s and, at the encouragement of the HotRod Magazine staff, I began racing a 1968 Shelby GT 500 in my early 40s. Once I got started, I haven’t looked back.”

With nearly twenty years of land speed record attempts in his rearview mirror, Lind has set 13 records in multiple classes and vehicles. He built and drove each record-setting entry. Currently, his fastest record is 236.5 mph in a 1969 Ford Talladega.

“Land speed racing has been my pathway to many other forms of racing,” explained Lind, “including drag racing, road course racing and NASCAR. I was a participant in one of the inaugural HotRod Magazine “Drag Week” events driving the 1968 Shelby GT 500 which ran in the low 11s.”

GEARING UP FOR PPIHC

Since his college days at Northern Arizona University, Lind dreamed of hill climbing and enjoyed perfecting his daily 14-mile commute through Oak Creek Canyon’s famous switchbacks. His road finally led him to Pikes Peak in 2024 and a chance to attempt the most famous hill climb in the world.

“All I’ve done for the last year is lay the groundwork for this event,” explained Lind. “I spent that time preparing my truck, which meant a complete makeover to cut the truck’s weight by 900 pounds, and my weight by 50 pounds.”

Asked about his training regimen, Lind said, “I logged 2000 miles at track day events in the last year. I watched a couple of in-car videos almost every day. Plus, in 2023, I helped out another team on Pikes Peak in order to learn, what I call, ‘The Pikes Peak Shuffle’ meaning all the ins and outs of tech inspection, practice and qualifying, along with the race day event. During that time I made 30 to 40 trips up the mountain, and this year I tried to get in two or three daily trips to the top.”

ABOUT THE TRUCK

Lind shared build details and interesting facts about his PPIHC entry.

1967 Chevy C-10 Pickup
Dodge R5/P7 motor
850 horsepower
NASCAR truck series chassis

“The body came from a friend’s grandfather’s farm truck and the chassis is from one of my old NASCAR trucks. We’ve had the truck in the wind tunnel a few times making the aero work for both land speed racing and road course events,” explained Lind. “It holds multiple land speed records including one where a 13-year-old girl set a record at 175 mph in this truck. I don’t have real sponsors, so I used my great grandparent’s Mobil Oil dealership to dress things up. The image on the hood is a ‘Trophy Girl’ I use with the permission of Zombie Hotrod Wear.

FANS MAKE RACING HAPPEN

Lind offered his impression of Fan Fest, the 10-block pre-race street festival in Downtown Colorado Springs drawing 35,000 eager fans. “Fan Fest was insane, in a good way! All the people and all the kids, what a great time. I signed autographs for 5 hours straight! It’s a good thing because fans make racing happen.”

WHAT’S NEXT?

Lind’s plans for October start with a trip from his Aiken, South Carolina home to the testing ground in Blytheville, Arkansas in an attempt to set a 200+ land speed record in the same truck he raced on Pikes Peak.

GET TO KNOW RICK LIND

Fun Facts:

“I was on both high school and college rodeo teams.”

“I worked on nuclear weapons for 20 years.”

“I’m currently building my personal museum to house my car collection.”

“My race number, #867, is a reference to the song ‘867-5309’ by Tommy Tutone. You can see ‘5309’ is ghosted in below my official number.”

What inspired you to enter the Race to the Clouds? “It is one of the last iconic races that is within reach for everyone. Its rich history with the Unser’s, the Dallenbach’s and the who’s who of racing royalty, has forever carved the event’s significance in auto racing. There is still room for the privateer to compete alongside the racing greats.”

Favorite section on Pikes Peak: “I like the lower section – lots of sweeping corners and speed.”

What surprised you most about Race Week? “I was truly humbled by how nice everyone was. I think every factory team complimented my truck, wanted their picture taken with it, and wanted my autograph. The Audi Team from Hungary treated me like I was a celebrity…you would have thought I won the race!”

Any Pikes Peak heroes? “Sterling Chase (the guy with the cowbell) and Luke Doyle. Sterling brings great flair to race day! His parting the sea of spectators with his cowbell, while leading cars to the starting line, is awesome.”

“Luke Doyle is a great ambassador for Pikes Peak and the Pikes Peak Highway. He has turned his position of driving the snowplow into being an ambassador for the mountain. He is always posting updates about the weather and road conditions. Plus, he tells me I may get to drive the snow plow one day!”

Check out Rick Lind’s Land Speed Record-Setting Truck and his 2024 Attempt on PPIHC

Photos by: Larry Chen Photo; Larry Chen, Luis Garcia, Payton Smith, Charles Zhou;

Headshot: Rick Lind

ABOUT THE COLORADO SPRINGS AIRPORT

Contact:
Lisa Haight
Communications Manager / Historian
lisa@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400
www.ppihc.org

HENRY HILL RETURNS TO PPIHC IN WOLF GB08 F1 EXTREME ON THE PROWL FOR A PODIUM FINISH

Colorado Springs, CO – Henry Hill of Cedar City, UT, returned to Pikes Peak in June for the first time since his Rookie of the Year performance in 2022, during the milestone 100th Running of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo. Behind the wheel of his 2021 Wolf GB08 F1 Extreme, Hill clocked a rookie time of 11:36.502 in the Unlimited division, topping all other newcomers to America’s Mountain.

FIRST IMPRESSION

Like the wolf sometimes spotted in the Colorado wilderness, Hill’s Wolf GB08 is long, lean and built for speed. He was ready to put it through its paces during race week and dreamed of a great run on race day, but, as the saying goes, ‘the mountain decides.’

In 2022, the weather on race day was the big story. Conditions were cold and wet making tire grip unpredictable and limiting visibility.

MORE TO THE STORY

Hill shared his first-year experience and what it took to make it to the top. “2022 was a wild year!” he began. “During testing, I almost hit a bighorn sheep! Then, on qualifying day we had a crushing mechanical failure. The transmission case split and blew a ten-inch hole out the back, shearing off twelve differential bolts, and feeding about three pounds of aluminum chunks into the oil. We were pulling handfuls of it out of the transmission.”

“But, I think the next part is what PPIHC is all about. How quickly can you recover and how quickly can you get parts and fix major damage,” Hill remarked. “4D Engineering saved us. The team worked every day until it came time to load the car and take it to the mountain. We had to weld the case and just seal it closed hoping it worked. We hoped it held when I let the clutch out on the starting line, and that it would shift through the gears, and hold on to the top.”

Hill recalled, “With almost no practice time, I was lucky I even met the amount required to run as a rookie. It felt like it couldn’t have been much worse, but it didn’t turn out too bad. The car was very slow but I think crossing the line meant more to me and my team that we didn’t really care about the time at that point. We were just so glad I made it to the top.”

HIGH HOPES

In 2024, Hill and his team arrived with hopes of a different experience in June. Comparing his two runs and detailing the mechanical challenges he had to overcome, as well as the physical ones, Hill shared how that hope began to dim on race day. “With the speeds being lower in 2022, and our limited run time, I really felt like 2024 was my rookie year. This year the car was faster and had all new parts. I really felt we had a shot at third place. Then it happened…we damaged the car heavily, again in qualifying, and couldn’t get it fixed before the race. Control of the cam phasers was completely lost. We just had to lock them and didn’t have the time to tune for this.”

“I had to run the race this year at half power,” Hill explained, “If I went more than 75% throttle, the car would die. If I went under 50%, it would do the same. I didn’t know how bad it was until I started the race.”

Hill’s misfortune didn’t end there. He shared, “Then we had a cooling issue that popped up. It turned out the coolant cap failed, but we didn’t know that until after the race.”

“When I was only two minutes from the top, a red flag was thrown for an incident ahead of me, which meant I was forced to come back down, cool the car, and load it back up with coolant. Novembre Racing and my entire team did everything they could just to get me back to the line. Now that I understood the issue with the car I could drive it better with the limited power I had.”

“So, second run, and 30 seconds from the top, another red flag was thrown only 30 seconds from the summit. I had to roll all the way back down, cool the car again, and get ready for another run. I was completely burnt out at this point. Everyone’s dream is full course runs and I was so sick and weak I wasn’t sure if I would even make it. My slow reaction time wasn’t helping and I was making errors. By the time I finished my third run, I’d been in the car for nearly two and a half hours.”

MIND OVER MATTER

In 2022, Hill was a first time racer on the mountain, but powered his way to the top, despite dismal conditions, and won Rookie of the Year.

Hill completed his third attempt on race day, pushing through mechanical issues and sickness to reach the 14,115′ summit for a top ten finish.

GET TO KNOW HENRY HILL

Fun Facts:

“I think most people would be surprised that I’m 6’6″ tall. That’s the main reason I picked this car. It was one of the few I could fit in. So, tall people can be racecar drivers, it’s just hard to find a car that fits!”

“I have the world’s greatest dog named Nelly. She’s old and sleeps all day in my office.”

Occupation:“I do high-speed computer storage design to pay the bills, and I hope to expand on the motorsports events I am running in the next few years…making more of an effort for enduros and other events. I think a lot of my life, events, and friends are based around either computers or racing. So, more of both is never a bad thing.”

Best advice you received?“Robin Shute told me my first year, ‘Don’t worry about sector time right now and just drive the course. Run time and experience will pay off more than anything.'”

Advice for someone hoping to race on Pikes Peak?“If possible get on a team. Just offer to pay your way and show up. You will get more knowledge from this than a year’s worth of planning for what you think you know. Talk to people who have been there and tell them your plan so they can tell you why it’s bad…because it is. Nothing will teach you more about Pikes Peak than being part of a team.

I had been to PPIHC for years prior to running, and I came in so overconfident and fell right on my face. I thought, ‘Show up, push car out, and run up a road for ten minutes, no problem. I race and transport this car all the time, this will be easy.’ It was great to have the PPIHC be the most humbling experience of my life.”

Favorite section? “Cove Creek to Elk Park is the best. The view is remarkable from my perspective, sitting flat in the car. I think it represents a mental switchover point in the course for me, too.”

Toughest section? “Boulder Park to Cog Cut. I wouldn’t have said this in 2022 because of how slow we were going in the bad weather, but the bumps there were insane for the really low cars in 2024. I had my ride height settings wrong, which caused the car to bottom so hard that it was worse than a wreck! I would’ve known this had I been able to test more during the week.”

Favorite track? “Daytona. The speed of the track and corner banking mixed with the overall environment. Everybody’s a race fan, and you’re in a giant bowl that gives you great views from any location.”

Watch Henry Hill Conquer the 156 Turns on Pikes Peak in his 2022 Weather-Impacted Run

Photos by: Larry Chen Photo; Larry Chen, Louis Yio, Luis Garcia, Charles Zhao, Jason Zindroski; Headshot, Henry Hill

ABOUT THE COLORADO SPRINGS AIRPORT

Contact:
Lisa Haight
Communications Manager / Historian
lisa@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400
www.ppihc.org

PIKES PEAK ROOKIE RON ZARAS CAPTURES ELECTRIC PRODUCTION SUV/CROSSOVER RECORD

Colorado Springs, CO – With the 102nd Running of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, in the rearview mirrors, the top stories continue to unfold. Meet Ron Zaras, former Brand VP, and later Senior VP, at Hoonigan Industries where he was passionate about inspiring automotive enthusiasts through his on-point brand marketing strategies, and he continues to embrace the fan experience as he builds his racing resume.

SEA LEVEL TO SUMMIT

Ron Zaras calls Long Beach, CA home, but has raced at tracks from coast to coast, sharing, “I started doing track days and autocross around about the age of 19, but didn’t compete in my first sanctioned race until I was 35 years old!”

In the past decade, Zaras has won the Our Gang Ice Race in Georgetown, CO, the NMK Folkrace in Bergen, Norway, and the ARA/Rally Ready ‘Do it for Dale’ Rally Sprint.

Zaras knew about Pikes Peak from Gran Turismo 3, and enjoyed running the course in Tajima’s Escudo Pikes Peak, exclaiming, “That car was savage to drive in the game – huge aero, feather weight, the highest horsepower number in the game, and enough turbo lag for me to question if the game was broken.”

HYUNDAI ON THE MOUNTAIN

In 2024, Zaras did, indeed, find himself in the position to compete in the Race to the Clouds and explained, “My main goal at Pikes Peak this year was to bring the car to the top of the mountain shiny side up, but let’s be honest, you’ll always find a benchmark time to try and beat. Running a 10:49, and seeing my name on the Pikes Peak records list among my racing heroes, was an absolutely surreal feeling.”

As part of the three-car team, a Hyundai Motorsport / Bryan Herta Autosport venture, Zaras shared why he felt the Hyundai production platform was well suited for Pikes Peak, “A fully electric powertrain is a major advantage on the mountain, but two things really tied that together for an awesome drive: reliability and driveability. It’s incredibly close to a showroom stock version of the car, which meant that it was super easy and intuitive to drive. On top of that, the battery had zero performance degradation for the entire run, making it really consistent.”

Zaras finished third in the Exhibition division behind the wheel of his electric 2025 Hyundai Ionic 5 N with his clocking of 10:49.267, establishing a record for an Electric Production SUV/Crossover.

Watch Lightning in the Throttle: Epi 5 (featuring Ron Zaras)

Since his time on the mountain, Zaras has moved straight into his next automotive venture, racing with Hyundai in the SRO TC America Championship, in an Elantra N touring car.

PARTING THOUGHT

“I just want to give a very big thank you to the entire Pikes Peak staff, safety crew, and all the fans, for an unforgettable first event,” Zaras expressed. “I can’t wait to come back. I’m absolutely hooked on this challenge!”

GET TO KNOW RON ZARAS

Fun Facts:

“I really, really enjoy storytelling, and I’ve spent the bulk of my career telling stories about cars and racing.”

“I enjoy architecture and industrial design.”

Between you and your teammates, Dani Sordo and Randy Pobst, who ate the most summit donuts? “I’ve got the win on that one by a long shot.”

What surprised you most about Race Week? “The people! During practice, the mountain is quite empty, so you get used to markers, apexes, and corners looking a certain way. But on race day, certain sections are PACKED with fans cheering you on. It’s quite an awesome thing to see.”

Advice for someone racing on Pikes Peak for the first time? “All the seasoned racers will give you great driving advice, so my biggest suggestion would be to really, consciously, enjoy the moment. Take mental images. After early morning practice sessions, the drive back down from the top at sunrise is something I’ll never ever forget.”

Any Pikes Peak heroes? “The easy answer is Ari Vatanen – I’m a big rally nerd, and Ari has been my driving hero ever since I learned about him. As I learned more about the race over the years, I gained a few more: Dave Carapetyan, Cole Powelson, and Monster Tajima.”

Any bucket list races or events you’d like to try? “The 24 Hours of Nurburgring. It’s quite the process just to qualify to race there, but it’s an absolute goal. And then it would be to compete in one of the world’s most scenic rallies ever, the Azores Rallye on São Miguel Island, off the coast of Portugal. You’re rallying on top of a volcano, it’s insane!”

If you could drive any car, from any era, up the mountain, what would it be? “Easy one…but we’d have to travel back in time to my birth year. I’d want to drive Walter Röhrl’s Audi Sport Quattro S1 E2 up the mountain back in 1987 when it was all gravel. That would be a wild experience!”

Watch Ron Zaras Set Electric Production SUV/Crossover Mark in 2024 Exhibition Division on Pikes Peak

Photos by: Larry Chen Photo; Larry Chen, Jason Zindroski, Charles Zhou

ABOUT THE COLORADO SPRINGS AIRPORT

Contact:
Lisa Haight
Communications Manager / Historian
lisa@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400
www.ppihc.org

CAETANO CLAIMS GT4 VICTORY IN SECOND PPIHC APPEARANCE

Colorado Springs, CO –The 102nd Running of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, attracted drivers from around the world to challenge the 156-turn, 12.42-mile race to the 14,115′ summit of America’s Mountain. Returning to Pikes Peak for the second time, Portugal’s Nuno Caetano stood at the top of the podium following his win in the Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy by Yokohama division in the Normally Aspirated class.

FROM SECOND TO FIRST

Caetano competed in the Porsche Pikes Peak Trophy by Yokohama division in 2023 in his #77 2020 Porsche Cayman Clubsport finishing in 10:50.741, for second place in the division.

As part of the first-ever GT4 Trophy division in 2024, Caetano explained, “What an amazing class! Cars are remarkably close together and can run competitive times up the mountain. I just love the fact that it all works. The fact that the packages are so established allows you to focus a lot more on your own driving than getting lost in constant set up changes. You can just turn the car around and go again; seat time is up there!”

His 2024 run behind the wheel of his 2023 Porsche 718 GT4 RS Clubsport bested the other normally aspirated entries in the class. Caetano shaved 27 seconds from his 2023 time to cap the win this year in 10:23.034, his best time yet and a record in the new division. Comparing his rookie year to this year’s run, Caetano shared, “I was a lot better situated this year. It also helped to be run by the same team and with a similar vehicle. On the negative side, I put a lot more pressure on myself than I had last year. So, it really ended up cutting both ways.”

FAST 15

Signing autographs for fans at the OPTIMA™ Batteries Fast 15 Alley during Fan Fest, Caetano was part of his first Fast 15 autograph session. Sharing his most memorable moment from this year’s Race to the Clouds, he explained, “Making Fast 15, and being on the pole in my class was, by far, the most memorable. I was having a tough time in qualifying and spent 90% of the session anywhere between five and ten seconds slower than the competition. Then, somehow, I managed to put it all together on the very last run. I don’t have a live lap timer on my dash, so I hoped I had improved enough to stave off embarrassment, but never dreamed I’d be P1 with more than a five second improvement!”

PORTUGAL’S CHAMPION

“PPIHC is globally renowned, and Portugal is no exception,” Caetano shared. “It’s getting to a point where I am known for basically two things – having run the Isle of Man TT and now Pikes Peak. For fans, my more than five years of off-road racing, Porsche cup races, plus a lot of rallies and hillclimbs seem to just disappear between those two milestones!”

Planning the trip from Portugal to the USA, while working weekly in London, isn’t easy. Caetano expressed his appreciation for the team effort it took to make it happen, “I have to thank my very patient employer and my sponsors. I tried to make it all work for everyone and this being the second time round I think it did.”

THE MISSING YELLOW GLOVES

“This year I ran my yellow gloves as spares, Caetano shared. “I do a fair bit of rallying in Portugal and, with that, come punctures and tire changes on the side of the road. Bright yellow does not work well with oil and dirt! So, I started running black. But, these will be back next time I run up the mountain, for sure!”

WHAT’S NEXT?

“I will continue to Hillclimb and rally in Portugal as a base, but I want to do more in the USA. There are loads of tracks I have not experienced, and I’d love to have a go at circle tracks stateside. We’ll see.”

Asked about plans to return to Pikes Peak in 2025, Caetano is quick to share, “Yes! After the pole, Fast 15 and the class win, I am left with one Pikes Peak objective: sub-10-minutes. It’s possible with the GT4RS, but maybe easier to accomplish with a different vehicle. That, and budget, are the discussions at the moment.”

GET TO KNOW NUNO CAETANO

Fun Facts:

“I dabbled with go karts and dirt bikes from a relatively young age, but I actually started racing later in life. I was 33 when I started racing bikes and 41 when I started in cars.”

“I loved all things motorized in my teens and fuels my addiction for that by being a private math tutor.”

“I’ve grown up in Portugal. My favorite spot to vacation is Algarve, Portugal. It’s tough to beat!”

For visitors to Portugal, don’t miss…

“I would say Lisbon, as a whole, and within that I would make sure to make it to a tiny spot of heaven called Azenhas do Mar and enjoy seafood at the restaurant with the same name.”

Any other racers in your family?

“None. My family was very averse to motorbikes, and ambivalent about cars. I had to weave my own way to make connections in motorsports.”

Watch Nuno Caetano Win Normally Aspirated Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy by Yokohama Class in 2024

Photos by: Larry Chen Photo; Larry Chen, Jason Zindroski, Luis Garcia, Charles Zhou; Headshot: Ean Proctor Photography

ABOUT THE COLORADO SPRINGS AIRPORT

Contact:
Lisa Haight
Communications Manager / Historian
lisa@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400
www.ppihc.org

DONOHUE CLINCHES DIVISION WIN AND SEVENTH TOP 10 OVERALL FINISH

Colorado Springs, CO –The 102nd Running of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, welcomed both first-time racers and seasoned veterans to the top of the podium. David Donohue of West Chester, PA, challenged the 14,115’ summit of Pikes Peak for the eighth time in June. Plagued by mysterious brake problems throughout the month, including race day, Donohue’s skill and course knowledge paid off as he notched yet another division win on America’s Mountain. This marked his fourth division win, this year in his 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo R, appropriately displaying #911, with a time of 09:49.660.

Over the past eight years, David Donohue has stood on the podium seven times – three in second place and four times at the top. His only deviation was a 2020 DNF after a tire problem sidelined him above Glen Cove. Other than that anomaly, Donohue has finished in the top ten, overall, every year.

“The car we ran this year was the same car that I ran in 2017,” shared Donohue, “even though it looks completely different. It started life as a Porsche 911 Turbo S Exclusive Series show car and over the years has evolved and been developed specifically for racing on Pikes Peak by Porsche Colorado Springs.” Donohue has exclusively raced Porsches on America’s Mountain throughout his eight years of competition.

CHALLENGE: BRAKING

Pikes Peak throws obstacles at competitors every year, from weather, to road conditions, to mechanical issues. Donohue gave some insight into what he faced during the 102nd Running, sharing, “It is comical to me that every year, no matter how much you prepare, there is some sort of struggle. Despite this car having run the race on three previous occasions, we struggled with the brakes the entire month. We changed almost every part of the system, and still never found the problem. Porsche Colorado Springs, BBI Autosport and even Romain Dumas’ team pitched in and never gave up.

Aside from that, the car was flawless. Having Mobil 1 on board was a special treat to celebrate their 50th anniversary, so qualifying in the Fast 15 and then winning the division on race day was extra special. It certainly made for a busy night at Fan Fest running between the Fast 15, Mobil 1, and Yokohama exhibits!”

CHAMPION

Although Donohue’s time was not what he’d hoped, it was more than enough to claim the win in the Time Attack 1 division. In addition to the division winner trophy, Donohue was the recipient of the Bergmeister Award, presented by Porsche of Colorado Springs and Fred Veitch, for the second consecutive year. The award is bestowed annually on the fastest Porsche on the mountain. Donohue received a custom trophy and $1,000 to designate to the charity of his choice.

FAMILY CONNECTIONS

With his daughter documenting Donohue’s Pikes Peak experience, it made the journey even more special. “For the past three years my daughter, Anna, has been with me for most of the month,” Donohue proudly shared. “Her primary role is capturing video and some photography, which is her profession, but she’s also ended up being a huge help with the car. I trust her completely and it is nice to have an extra set of eyes around.”

Anna’s enthusiastic response echoes her dad’s sentiment, “Being able to capture my dad, and his team, at Pikes Peak for the past three years has been unbelievable. The dedication to making the best car on behalf of everyone on the team is inspiring, and I am so proud to be a small part of it by bringing a camera to early practices and test days.”

“I always knew my dad was a great driver, but his commitment to the sport really shines through in the sleepless nights, and months of preparation, to help the team give their absolute best on race day. It is such a unique race, and I am so proud and privileged to share this experience with him.”

David’s auto racing roots run deep. Mark Donohue, David’s father, was considered a top Trans-Am series driver in the late 1960s and early 1970s. He went on to win the Indy 500 in 1972, driving for Penske. He finished the race in his McLaren-Offy setting a record speed of over 162 mph which stood for twelve years. This victory was the first for Penske in the Indy 500.

Mark Donohue was inducted into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame and the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in 1990. He was inducted in the Sports Car Club of America Hall of Fame in 2006.

GET TO KNOW DAVID DONOHUE

Fun Facts:

“My daily driver is a Porsche Taycan. It’s a great driving car, it’s just a pain to put a mountain bike on the roof!”

“I like to tinker and make things. I have a small shop in my garage with a CNC machine and some other equipment. Over the past few years, and with help from BBI and Verus Engineering, I’ve made some parts for the Pikes Peak car where I can, since we are always budget-constrained.”

“My favorite vacation spot is anywhere my wife, Jodi, likes to go. If she’s happy, I’m happy.”

Occupation: Other than the month of June, I am a test and development driver for Hennessey Special Vehicles currently focusing on the Venom F5. It’s been a great experience working with that team. During some calibration testing we achieved just over 221 mph in a half-mile acceleration. I also work in Race Control for IMSA, I’m a race coach for Ferrari Philadelphia, and occasionally help Apex Driving Events at their various IMSA and SRO test days and Pre-Grid events.”

Favorite track: “Bridgehampton on Long Island would be my favorite racetrack. It’s not there anymore, but it was fantastic. I like tracks that were designed by a bulldozer not a computer. Watkins Glen, Road America, Road Atlanta, and Mosport are my top four in North America.”

Advice for Rookies on Pikes Peak: “If you are not absolutely certain where you are, back off!”

Best advice you ever received about racing on Pikes Peak: “Don’t drive at 10/10ths! And no matter what, be happy at the summit…even if you know you left some time on the table.”

2024 PPIHC Time Attack 1 Division Winner, David Donohue

Watch his onboard run!

Photos by: Larry Chen Photo; Larry Chen, Israel Amezcua, Jason Zindroski, Luis Garcia

ABOUT THE COLORADO SPRINGS AIRPORT

Contact:
Lisa Haight
Communications Manager / Historian
lisa@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400
www.ppihc.org

ROMAIN DUMAS STORMS PIKES PEAK IN FORD F-150 LIGHTNING SUPERTRUCK TO CLAIM FIFTH KING OF THE MOUNTAIN

Colorado Springs, CO – King of the Mountain, a designation honoring the fastest competitor on the mountain. The 102nd Running of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, bestowed this year’s top award on Romain Dumas. It was the fifth time he had earned the esteemed King of the Mountain award.

FIVE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Romain Dumas is no stranger to PPIHC’s top award, the King of the Mountain trophy. He collected four of them between 2014 and 2018. Dumas first competed on America’s Mountain in 2012, in the Pikes Peak Open division in a 2012 Porsche GT3R, finishing first in the division. His time of 09:46.181 was second overall to Rhys Millen’s winning time of 09:46.164 in the Time Attack division. Millen claimed King of the Mountain and a course record that year.

In 2013, fellow-Frenchman, Sebastien Loeb, would shatter the course record with a blazing 08:13.878, lowering the mark by 27 seconds.

Dumas earned his first crown in 2014 behind the wheel of his 2013 Norma M20 RD Limited, completing the 12.42 mile course in 09:05.801, not a record, but the best time of 2014.

Returning in 2016 for the 100th Anniversary of the iconic race first staged in 1916, Dumas presented the #30 Norma once again. He clocked his first sub-9-minute run on Pikes Peak, an 08:51.445, to win his second title.

In 2017, Dumas claimed his third King of the Mountain crown, once again in his proven Norma. His time was 09:05.672.

Dumas teamed up with Volkswagen in 2018 to pilot their I.D. R Pikes Peak, an all-electric, purpose-built race car that went from concept to competition in less than a year. Not only did he win the division, and King of the Mountain honors in 2018, he laid down a jaw-dropping sub-8-minute course record – 07:57.148.

In 2023, Dumas and Ford established a new record for an Electric Modified Truck/Van in the Ford Performance SuperVan 4.2 of 08:47.682, breaking the Pikes Peak Open division record.

For the second consecutive year, Dumas strapped in to a Ford Performance entry, this year an electric-powered F-150 Lightning SuperTruck. Despite an on-course power glitch early in his run, Dumas was able to restart and clinch the win to claim his fifth King of the Mountain crown.

Dumas shared the goal for 2024’s PPIHC, “We won our division last year, but not overall. That was the main goal with a new car. So I was looking forward to discovering the F-150 SuperTruck on the mountain and also to taking this overall victory home for Ford Performance. One of our targets was also to improve the time. We did it, but we should have done better. There was one issue early in the race. It shows again that everything can happen on the mountain.” The issue Dumas described was the electric power completely shutting down early in the run. He ran through restart procedures and was able to power up the truck, continue his run, and take the win.

Asked about this year’s victory, Dumas shared, “Obviously, it’s great to win again at Pikes Peak! It’s always hard to make it happen. Each win is special and has its own story. It’s the first overall win for me with Ford, and it’s a great reward for the team effort. Five wins is a nice number, but there are still more victories to take, in order to join legends like Monster Tajima (7 overall wins) or Bobby Unser (10 overall wins).”

Sri Pakkram, High-Performance EV Manager, for Ford Performance Motorsports, offered his take on this year’s victory, “Track and weather conditions are so much more variable at Pikes Peak than at other traditional racetracks, and Romain’s ability to gauge the grip levels and immediately perform at the limit of traction, right out of the gate, is unmatched. It’s a combination of his prodigious skill and experience that helps him perform at this level. In a place where you have such limited practice time, this combination of skill and experience is the biggest performance differentiator I can ask for when we’re going out there to be the best.”

Check out the newly released video F-150 Lightning SuperTruck Takes on Pikes Peak from Ford Performance featuring the story behind the build, and all the drama of racing on Pikes Peak.

BEYOND PIKES PEAK

Within weeks of claiming top honors on Pikes Peak, Dumas and Ford Performance conquered the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the 2023 Ford Performance SuperVan 4.2. Dumas explained one commonality between Goodwood and the PPIHC, “The pressure you have at the wheel, because you have to be good at the right time – you only have one shot.”

Asked what’s next, Dumas says he is working on various projects, offering, “I always have plenty of ideas in mind, sportscar, rally, off-road, and hill climbs, maybe NASCAR in the U.S. and V8 Supercars in Australia. One big target is the Dakar Rally and racing in top-level endurance races.”

GET TO KNOW ROMAIN DUMAS

Fun Facts:

“I like running, so I do quite a lot.”

“I like DIY projects at home, but I also have a passion for sailing. I restored a boat which was in quite bad shape.”

“My family is important and I am proud to see my kid growing up. It’s great to spend time with him and enjoy things together.”

What’s one thing you’d like to improve?

“I would say being more patient. Things need to go quick for me!”

Something you’ve never done and would like to do?

“Win Dakar overall.”

Somewhere you’ve never been, but wish to go?

“I’ve done quite a lot of things in my career, and basically raced almost everywhere; racetracks, rally or hill climb, in Europe, America, and Asia…even going on a volcano with a Porsche! Why not going to the moon? More seriously, there are a few places I have in mind to take on new exciting challenges. I like nature and there are beautiful locations to discover on earth via hiking, with a car or on a boat.”

2024 King of the Mountain – Romain Dumas Onboard Run and Post-Race Interview

Photos by: Larry Chen Photo, Revvolution.com, Jason Zindroski, Rob Miscowitch, Charles Zhao, Luis Garcia

ABOUT THE COLORADO SPRINGS AIRPORT

Contact:
Lisa Haight
Communications Manager / Historian
lisa@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400
www.ppihc.org

POWELSON CLOCKS SUB-10 RUN TO WIN 2024 PPIHC OPEN WHEEL DIVISION

Colorado Springs, CO – The 102nd Running of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, saw records fall and new champions crowned. In his seventh year of competition on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, Utah’s Cole Powelson claimed his first victory. With his clocking of 09:33.222, his second career sub-10-minute run on the mountain, Powelson clinched the Open Wheel division win, a 4th place finish overall, and his personal best time.

Powelson’s racing experience is vast and varied. He was the 2021 SCCA Rallycross National Champion and also competed in Time Attack, finishing first at COTA and second overall at the Long Beach Grand Prix. The same year, he claimed a class win, and set the second overall fastest time in the 2021 Mt. Washington Hill Climb.

CHANGE OF PLAN

Since his first entry on Pikes Peak in 2015, Powelson has been behind the wheel of either a Nissan GT-R or a Sierra race car. He originally entered a 2025 Sierra Echo R-Spec for 2024, but just days before race week, was forced to make a last-minute shift to his tried and true Sierra Alpha.

Powelson, describing the lead up to his Pikes Peak run, explained, “This year was full of surprises! Less than 48 hours before the truck was scheduled to head to Colorado, I discovered I would need to use a different car. I dusted off my 2021 SIERRA ALPHA as it was the closest car I had that was ready for competition. I hadn’t run that car since 2020, but I did achieve a personal best that year, making my first sub-10 minute run and my first Pikes Peak podium.”

TEAMBUILDING

Although Powelson knew and trusted the car, he also realized it would take some work to get it back up to speed. “I first called my dad and brother to ask for help. My dad let me use his truck and trailer, my brother helped me start preparing and loading up. Shortly after that, we posted a video on social media asking for help. The response was incredible! I reached out to my race engineer Mike McGinnes to see if he could help support the program and he agreed. From that point on I knew we had a really great chance of doing something special. I had a new friend from Australia reach out and ask if he and his buddy could be mechanics on the team so they flew to Utah and stayed with us for the next 10 days. (Thanks Jordan and Lachy!)”

“It was amazing how everything was able to come together in such a short period of time. I am forever grateful for everyone who chipped in or volunteered to make this the most successful event of my Pikes Peak career.”

“The biggest challenge this year was putting a winning team together in 48 hours. There is a saying in business that goes, ‘Sometimes you have to jump off the cliff and build the airplane on the way down.’ That is certainly how things went. Each day we worked as a team to build that airplane and by race day it paid off with a win.” Cole Powelson

REFLECTING ON FIRST PPIHC WIN

From disappointing DNFs to his 2020 podium finish in his own purpose-built Sierra, Cole Powelson has experienced the highs and lows of Pikes Peak. After a solid run on race day it was just a waiting game to see who came out on top.

Powelson shared, “I never like to count my eggs before they are hatched! I was very happy with our time but there is always the chance that someone can go faster than you. I sat at the summit for what felt like an eternity as I watched each open wheel competitor make their run. Once everyone had finished, it really started to sink in that we had won. It was an unbelievable feeling and a childhood dream come true! I couldn’t wait to wave to all of the fans on the way back down, and to share the moment with the team, and my family, especially my wife Ashley, and my kids, Ellie & Emmett.”

MUST HAVE: FAMILY

Powelson’s emphasis on the importance of his family in daily life and at the track is part of his racing strategy, explaining, “I have always considered myself a family man, but this year more than ever they played a major role in our success. My family keeps me supported and grounded. It’s not always feasible for them to be present on race day but I am so happy they were there this year to share all the special moments – from Fan Fest to celebrating a race day win.”

Powelson offered additional insight on the family aspect of Pikes Peak, explaining, “I also consider many of the Pikes Peak drivers and team members my family. From the highs to the lows, I have always felt supported at this event. I try to pay it forward to the rookies, make them feel welcome, share mountain wisdom and help solve their issues leading up to race day.”

GET TO KNOW COLE POWELSON

Fun Facts:

“I love being a dad! When I am not racing I am most certainly spending time with my family outdoors.”

“This year I made a goal to run a sub 4 hour marathon which I did in April. Running is hard!”

“Last year I sold a majority stake in my company SIERRA Cars and have taken on some wonderful new partners. I am learning so much about growing into a big company.”

Do you have a name for your car?

“Elliott! It’s the combination of my kids’ names.”

Three things you need to have in the trailer on race day:

“Must have warm Yokohama tires…(also works to keep breakfast burritos warm)!”

“My loved ones! I love having family and friends with me even though I’m ‘in the zone.'”

“Headphones. I’m always reviewing footage and listening to music to get pumped!”

Favorite corner?

“Turn 1 because I’ve waited an entire year for that green flag!”

Most challenging part of the course?

“The upper section is fast, bumpy and hair raising, and requires discipline to finish.”

Other than Pikes Peak, what is your favorite track to race?

“Spa in Belgium, but I’d love to drive Suzuka! It has been a bucket list track since I was a kid but I haven’t found the right opportunity yet.”

Do you have any superstitions or good luck charms?

“Every year I carry a trinket or coin to the summit to give to my kids after a successful summit.”

Favorite place you’ve visited?

“Alaska. That place is incredible. I have barely scratched the surface but for someone who loves mountains and being outdoors it’s an absolute dreamscape.”

Watch 2024 Open Wheel Division Champion, Cole Powelson, in his Race to the Clouds!

Photos by: Larry Chen, Luis Garcia, Jason Zindroski

ABOUT THE COLORADO SPRINGS AIRPORT

Contact:
Lisa Haight
Communications Manager / Historian
lisa@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400
www.ppihc.org

ROMANIAN HILL CLIMB CHAMPION JEROME FRANCE TACKLES PIKES PEAK HILL CLIMB

RACING TOWARD PIKES PEAK

THE NEXT CHALLENGE

JAPAN’S SATOSHI YAGI RETURNS TO PIKES PEAK IN SMALL BUT MIGHTY TOYOTA STARLET

INSPIRED BY THE MONSTER

MAKING THE STARLET RACE READY

POST PPIHC

THE GOAL REMAINS THE SAME

PPIHC ROOKIE RICK LIND BRINGS LAND SPEED RECORD TRUCK TO RACE TO THE CLOUDS

SPEED SCENARIOS

GEARING UP FOR PPIHC

ABOUT THE TRUCK

FANS MAKE RACING HAPPEN

WHAT’S NEXT?

HENRY HILL RETURNS TO PPIHC IN WOLF GB08 F1 EXTREME ON THE PROWL FOR A PODIUM FINISH

FIRST IMPRESSION

MORE TO THE STORY

HIGH HOPES

MIND OVER MATTER

PIKES PEAK ROOKIE RON ZARAS CAPTURES ELECTRIC PRODUCTION SUV/CROSSOVER RECORD

SEA LEVEL TO SUMMIT

HYUNDAI ON THE MOUNTAIN

Watch Lightning in the Throttle: Epi 5 (featuring Ron Zaras)

PARTING THOUGHT

CAETANO CLAIMS GT4 VICTORY IN SECOND PPIHC APPEARANCE

FROM SECOND TO FIRST

FAST 15

PORTUGAL’S CHAMPION

THE MISSING YELLOW GLOVES

WHAT’S NEXT?

DONOHUE CLINCHES DIVISION WIN AND SEVENTH TOP 10 OVERALL FINISH

CHALLENGE: BRAKING

CHAMPION

FAMILY CONNECTIONS

ROMAIN DUMAS STORMS PIKES PEAK IN FORD F-150 LIGHTNING SUPERTRUCK TO CLAIM FIFTH KING OF THE MOUNTAIN

FIVE CHAMPIONSHIPS

BEYOND PIKES PEAK

POWELSON CLOCKS SUB-10 RUN TO WIN 2024 PPIHC OPEN WHEEL DIVISION

GET TO KNOW COLE POWELSON

Latest News

‘Rising to the Occasion’ Volunteer Award

BEHIND THE WHEEL – Emmanuel Cecchet

PPIHC VOLUNTEERS SHINE ON PIKES PEAK

BEHIND THE WHEEL – Dan Novembre

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY

THANK YOU TO

OUR SPONSORS

TITLE SPONSOR

PRESENTING SPONSOR

Contact

Contact