Category: Race News

ULTRA4 USA ANNOUNCES LOREN HEALY, PAUL WOLFF, AND PHILLIP MCGILTON FOR 104TH RACE TO THE CLOUDS

JOHNSON VALLEY, CALIFORNIA, April 16, 2026 – Ultra4 USA will make its return to the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, with the inclusion of Ultra4 USA competitors at this year’s race on June 21, 2026.

The effort will feature three of the sport’s most accomplished drivers: Loren Healy, Paul Wolff, and Phillip McGilton, marking the first time in 15 years that Ultra4 vehicles compete in an official capacity at the iconic mountain race.

Known for conquering brutal terrain at events like King of the Hammers, Ultra4 USA drivers will now face a dramatically different challenge: 156 turns, steep elevation gain, and rapidly changing conditions from the start line to the 14,115-foot summit.

“Ultra4 was built on the idea of doing what others won’t — taking on the toughest terrain, the biggest challenges, and figuring it out along the way,” said Dave Cole, Co-founder and owner of Ultra4 USA. “Pikes Peak is one of the most iconic races in the world, and bringing back Ultra4 isn’t just a moment — it’s a statement.”

A Championship-Caliber Lineup

• Loren Healy — Multi-time King of the Hammers champion and one of the most decorated drivers in Ultra4 history. Healy will campaign “El Bandito,” a 1,000-horsepower Ford Bronco built on a 4400 Ultra4 chassis by RTR Vehicles.
• Paul Wolff — A seasoned competitor with deep experience across off-road disciplines. Wolff will pilot his UFO-built 4400 race car, a purpose-built Ultra4 machine designed for durability, speed, and adaptability across extreme terrain.
• Phillip McGilton — One of the most prominent stars in Ultra4 USA, known for his performance and consistency at the highest levels of competition.

A Historic Crossover

The reemergence of Ultra4 USA at Pikes Peak represents a significant moment for both disciplines, blending the raw and unpredictable nature of off-road racing with the precision and speed of hill climb competition.

“The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb has long welcomed a wide range of disciplines and competitors to the mountain,” said Melissa Eickhoff, CEO of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. “Bringing back a fan favorite, like the Ultra4 vehicles, adds a fun element to the race while showcasing drivers and vehicles that thrive in some of the toughest conditions in motorsports.”

Ultra4 USA last competed at Pikes Peak in 2011, when a small group introduced off-road machines to the mountain. Founder Dave Cole led the effort with a third-place finish in the Pikes Peak Open division (13:05.318). JT Taylor who placed fourth and returns in 2026, competed alongside Samuel Berri, Kevin Yoder, Roger Lovell, and Matthew Peterson.

Levi Shirley piloted a 2014 Campbell Ent. Single Seat IFS Ultra4 vehicle in the 100th Running of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and famously finished the race despite flipping the car at Engineers Corner.

BUY TICKETS

Contact:
Elizabeth Wyman
Marketing & Partnerships Manager
Elizabeth@ppihc.org
719-685-4400
www.ppihc.org

Photography: Ultra4 Racing

KUMHO TIRE U.S.A. SELECTS FOUR PIKES PEAK RACERS FOR INAUGURAL “GAINING TRACTION” PROGRAM

ATLANTA, GEORGIA, March 23, 2026 – Kumho Tire U.S.A., one of the world’s leading tire manufacturers, today announced four competitive racers selected for its inaugural Gaining Traction Program in collaboration with the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo. Matus Huska, Earl O’Maley, Ernie Ramirez and Ben Ryan are each based in Colorado, possess five years or fewer of competitive racing experience on Pikes Peak, and have demonstrated strong growth potential through exceptional skill, passion, and a fearless approach to the unique demands of racing on America’s Mountain.

Selected Drivers for the Kumho Tire Gaining Traction Program:

• Matus Huska (Parker, CO) – Huska will compete in the Pikes Peak Open division, bringing four years of experience piloting his 2010 Audi TTS up the mountain.
• Earl O’Maley (Colorado Springs, CO) – Racing a 2015 O’Maley Special Spec V in the Open Wheel division, O’Maley steps up with three years of Pikes Peak racing experience.
• Ernie Ramirez (Aurora, CO) – Behind the wheel of his 2013 Mitsubishi Evolution, Ramirez returns to Pikes Peak for his second year in the Time Attack 1.
• Ben Ryan (Arvada, CO) – An old-school racer, Ryan will compete in a 1968 Plymouth Roadrunner in the Pikes Peak Open division, following two previous entries in the Time Attack 1 in 2023 and 2024.

“Our investment in these four talented Pikes Peak drivers goes beyond mere sponsorship; it’s about fostering the next generation of motorsport champions and helping them navigate the unique demands of this legendary race,” said Ed Cho, CEO Kumho Tire U.S.A. “Each of the selected participants demonstrates remarkable potential and a passion for racing that aligns perfectly with Kumho Tire’s spirit of innovation and performance. We look forward to seeing them leverage our most advanced, high-performance tire to achieve new milestones in their competitive careers.”

“Pikes Peak has long been a proving ground for talented drivers, and it’s exciting to see a program that invests directly in emerging competitors from Colorado,” said Melissa Eickhoff, CEO of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. “Through this partnership with Kumho Tire, these four drivers have the opportunity to grow their careers while contributing to the Colorado legacy that has defined the Race to the Clouds for more than a century.”

As part of the inaugural Gaining Traction Program, racers will receive financial support, a supply of KUMHO V730 tires, and driver development resources. Beyond the track, drivers will gain visibility through an autograph session at the Kumho Tire booth during Fan Fest in downtown Colorado Springs, connecting them directly with racing enthusiasts and media.

The KUMHO V730 tire is built to maximize grip and handling for competitive driving environments. Its mixture of ultra-high grip synthetic resins and fine carbon black featured in the racing compound provides necessary traction, while application of a high-strength carcass and optimized footprint design manages lateral cornering forces and enhances endurance and longevity. For more information on the full product lineup of Kumho Tire U.S.A., visit www.kumhotireusa.com.

BUY TICKETS

Contact:
Elizabeth Wyman
Marketing & Partnerships Manager
Elizabeth@ppihc.org
719-685-4400
www.ppihc.org

Nicole Fait
The Brand Amp
kumhopr@thebrandamp.com

Photography: Larry Chen Photo, Provided PHotos

100 DAYS TO THE PIKES PEAK HILL CLIMB

Colorado Springs, Colorado — With just 100 days to go until the 104th Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, anticipation is building for the Race to the Clouds on June 21. This year’s theme, “The World’s Race, America’s Mountain – A Colorado Legacy,” reflects both the global reach of the competition and a historic year celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States and Colorado’s 150th birthday.

Interest in competing remains strong, with 95 highly competitive applications received from around the world. The selection committee ultimately selected 75 drivers representing 12 countries and a range of racing disciplines.

Competitors in the accomplished field are preparing to challenge the 12.42-mile course on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, navigating 156 turns and climbing more than 4,700 feet to the 14,115-foot summit.

BUY TICKETS

PAST KINGS OF THE MOUNTAIN

Several Kings of the Mountain headline the 2026 field, bringing championship pedigree back to America’s Mountain.

Five-time overall winner Romain Dumas returns after finishing second overall in 2025 on the shortened course. Four-time champion Robin Shute is preparing to debut a brand-new prototype, the 2026 Sendycar V1, a car he designed and built specifically for the mountain.

They will be joined by fellow champions Simone Faggioli and Clint Vahsholtz, each aiming to add another chapter to their Pikes Peak legacy.

RETURNING DIVISION WINNERS

Several 2025 division champions are set to return to the mountain this June, looking to defend their titles against a strong field.

Returning winners include Simone Faggioli (Unlimited), Romain Dumas (Pikes Peak Open), Dan Novembre (Open Wheel), and Robb Holland (Time Attack 1).

Each will face new challengers as they attempt to repeat their success on one of the most demanding courses in motorsport.

ROOKIES READY FOR THE MOUNTAIN

Twelve rookies will make their debut on the mountain in 2026, adding fresh talent to the international field. First-time competitors include Carlos de Quesada, Catesby Jones, Billy Johnson, Nick Plocienik, Valentin Simonet, Bryan Heitkotter, Maciej Serafin, Rob Wilmoth, Joshua Briggs, Kurt Dieker, Jim Morris, and John Annunziata.

Among them, Serafin will make history as the first driver from Poland to compete in the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.

WOMEN ON PIKES PEAK

Five women will take on the mountain in 2026. Drivers include Laura Hayes, Emelia Hartford, Tracy Gaudu, Ryan Cheek, and Kathryn Mead.

Hayes returns as the fastest woman on four wheels on Pikes Peak in the GT4 Turbo division, having set the division record in 2024 with a time of 10:20.487 behind the wheel of a Toyota Supra GT4.

FAST FACTS

There’s no shortage of storylines and milestones in the 104th Race to the Clouds.

• Beginning in 2026, the Unlimited division will feature two classes: a Production-Based Class and a Super Unlimited Class, creating new distinctions within the division that showcases the most extreme cars competing on Pikes Peak.
• Akira Kameyama returns to competition at age 70 after a remarkable 27-year absence from the event.
• Diesel performance will again be represented by Gregoire Blachon, the current Pikes Peak diesel record holder, in his 2023 Radical SR Diesel.

PPIHC Contact:
Elizabeth Wyman
Marketing & Partnerships Manager
Elizabeth@ppihc.org
719-685-4400
www.ppihc.org

Photography: Larry Chen Photo; Kevin Ferstl

ENTRIES REVEALED FOR JUNE 21 PIKES PEAK HILL CLIMB

Colorado Springs, Colorado — Entries have been selected and invitations sent for the 104th Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo. Competitors representing 11 countries are prepping for the 12.42 miles to the top of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain.

An accomplished field, including 12 rookies, will challenge America’s Mountain and become part of the Race to the Clouds Colorado Legacy. Together, they help us celebrate a historic year marking the 250th anniversary of the United States and Colorado’s 150th birthday.

Five-time King of the Mountain, Romain Dumas, returns with a vengeance in the 2025 Ford Super Mustang Mach-E after finishing second overall through the shortened course in 2025. Meanwhile, Robin Shute with four King of the Mountain titles to his name comes with a brand new prototype dubbed the 2026 Sendycar V1.

VIEW THE 2026 COMPETITOR LIST

PPIHC Contact:
Elizabeth Wyman
Marketing & Partnerships Manager
Elizabeth@ppihc.org
719-685-4400
www.ppihc.org

PPIHC ANNOUNCES KUMHO TIRE GAINING TRACTION PROGRAM TO PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR UP-AND-COMING COLORADO-BASED COMPETITORS

Kumho Tire Also Announced it will Sponsor the 2026 Rookie of the Year Award

Colorado Springs, Colorado – January 29, 2026– The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo (PPIHC), welcomes a new partner, Kumho Tire, for the 104th Running of the Race to the Clouds. In conjunction with PPIHC, Kumho Tire announced today the Gaining Traction Program, an initiative to sponsor promising Colorado-based drivers with five years or fewer of competitive racing experience on Pikes Peak. Kumho Tire also will sponsor the 2026 Rookie of the Year award. This move reflects the company’s commitment to developing the next generation of racing talent and showcasing its high-performance tires in one of the world’s most demanding environments.

“Kumho Tire’s commitment to supporting emerging Colorado-based drivers aligns perfectly with the values and history of The Race to the Clouds,” said Melissa Eickhoff, CEO of the Pikes Peak Hill Climb. “We’re thrilled to partner with a brand that shares our passion for developing talent, fostering opportunity, and honoring the Colorado legacy that defines this race.”

As part of the Gaining Traction Program, Kumho Tire will sponsor four emerging drivers with financial, product and other support. The company will cover each driver’s entry fee, provide KUMHO V730 tires for the event, as well as resources, guidance and opportunities for driver development. Selected drivers will also be featured at an autograph session during Fan Fest.

“We believe in developing and supporting the future generation of racing and are thrilled to partner with the Pikes Peak Hill Climb,” said John Yoon, senior vice president of marketing, Kumho Tire U.S.A. “We’re not just looking for a champion; we’re looking for an athlete with the raw drive and potential to become one. By supporting a driver early in their Pikes Peak career, we can provide resources that can truly make a difference in their racing trajectory, including our high-performance KUMHO tires.”

The Kumho Tire Gaining Traction program is specifically aimed at drivers who can demonstrate exceptional skill, passion, and a fearless approach to the unique demands of racing on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain. The competitors who are chosen will not only represent the brand during the PPIHC, but at all ancillary events associated with the event.

Eligibility requirements include a driver/team based in Colorado, as well as five or fewer years of PPIHC experience. KUMHO will select drivers who demonstrate strong growth potential based on their experience and career trajectory from the Final Entry list as selected by the PPIHC Competition Committee. Drivers may qualify for KUMHO support for multiple years.

The KUMHO V730 tire is built to maximize grip and handling for competitive driving environments. Its mixture of ultra-high grip synthetic resins and fine carbon black featured in the racing compound provides necessary traction, while application of a high strength carcass and optimized footprint design manages lateral cornering forces and enhances endurance and longevity.

PPIHC Contact:
Elizabeth Wyman
Marketing & Partnerships Manager
Elizabeth@ppihc.org
719-685-4400
www.ppihc.org

Kumho Tire Contact:
Nicole Fait
kumhopr@thebrandamp.com

PPIHC’S ANNUAL POSTER ART CONTEST LAUNCHES TODAY,

RUNS THROUGH APRIL 15

Colorado Springs, Colorado — The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, is calling all artists to submit their best interpretation of the annual race theme for this year’s poster art contest.

The 2026 concept, “The World’s Race America’s Mountain – A Colorado Legacy,” features a patriotic celebration honoring both America’s 250th birthday and Colorado’s 150th birthday. Nicknamed the Centennial State, Colorado was recognized with statehood 100 years after the Declaration of Independence was signed.

Winning submissions from talented artists across the Pikes Peak Region will be featured on PPIHC’s international media platforms.

CALL FOR ENTRIES

Project Theme

The World’s Race America’s Mountain

A Colorado Legacy

Prize

Winning Artist receives $1000 cash prize + 2 VIP Race Day Tickets + 2 Invitations to VIP Reception, and will make an appearance at Fan Fest to autograph copies of their winning poster on Friday evening, June 19.

People’s Choice Winner receives $250.

Deadline for Submissions

April 15, 2026 (also known as World Art Day!)

Eligibility Requirements

• Open to all ages
• Professional, Amateur, and Student Submissions welcome
• Artists must live in, or have very strong ties to, the Pikes Peak Region.

LEARN MORE AND SUBMIT ENTRIES HERE

PREVIOUS WINNERS

Contact:
Elizabeth Wyman
Marketing & Partnerships Manager
Elizabeth@ppihc.org
719-685-4400
www.ppihc.org

2026 REQUEST FOR INVITATION

OPENS TODAY

Colorado Springs, Colorado — The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, is now accepting competitor applications for the 2026 Race to the Clouds. The 104th Running roars to life on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain on Sunday, June 21, 2026.

First contested in 1916, this invitation-only global motorsports event has lured elite competitors to challenge the 12.42-mile, 156-turn course, for more than a century. Drivers may submit a 2026 Request for Invitation through January 29, 2026.

A selection committee will vet each entry, reviewing racing resume, prior experience in hill climb racing, build specifications, and compliance with the 2026 Rule Book.

The full list of accepted competitors for the 2026 event will be announced on February 5, 2026.

APPLY NOW

THE WORLD’S RACE
AMERICA’S MOUNTAIN

A COLORADO LEGACY

Colorado Springs, Colorado — In celebration of the 104th Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, the theme for next year’s race is official!

The concept includes a patriotic flair as a salute to America’s 250th birthday. Taking place on America’s Mountain, this renowned annual event attracts top drivers, eager fans and premier media outlets from Colorado, the USA, and nations around the world.

Coinciding with the celebration of America is the 150th birthday of Colorado. Nicknamed The Centennial State, Colorado was recognized with statehood 100 years after the Declaration of Independence was signed.

Drivers calling Colorado home include Jeff Zwart, Paul Dallenbach, David Donner, Clint and Codie Vahsholtz, Robb Holland, Dan Novembre, the O’Maley brothers, and scores of others.

Recognized around the globe as the premier hill climbing event, the PPIHC is beloved by fans and drivers all over the world. Spanning more than a century, it’s a generational event for acclaimed motorsport families like the Unsers and Millens, as well as auto racing icons Michèle Mouton, Nobuhiro “Monster” Tajima, Sébastien Loeb and current course record holder, Romain Dumas.

The PPIHC is also an annual tradition for fans, race officials and volunteers. Some have been attending the Race to the Clouds for more than 50 years. Others have volunteered for generations, bringing the younger ones along in hopes they’ll maintain the custom in future years.

Anchored in Colorado as a legacy event, this race bears the vision of its founder, Spencer Penrose, who set out in 1916 to bring visitors to the Pikes Peak region. His idea was to provide a racing competition in a venue never before witnessed. In fact, he built the highway to the top of Pikes Peak and wanted everyone to enjoy this mountain and the views it offered.

But, his dream wasn’t limited to Pikes Peak, or auto racing. It expanded to include both summer and year-round events that continue to this day. His Penrose Stadium hosts the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo, polo matches and other equestrian events near his upscale hotel, The Broadmoor.

As incredibly generous philanthropists, Spencer and wife, Julie, were visionary community stewards who later invested their fortune in the well-being of people in Colorado by creating El Pomar Foundation. Their mission is to support nonprofits and government entities in the areas of arts and culture, civic and community initiatives, education, health, and human services in significant ways in the Pikes Peak region.

As celebrations roll out across the nation, join the PPIHC in saluting America, the State of Colorado, Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, and the field of exceptional drivers who will set their sights on the 14,115′ summit of Pikes Peak on June 21.

Photos by: Larry Chen Photo – Larry Chen, Luis Garcia, Louis Yio

Others: Rayteam Automotive, El Pomar Foundation (Penrose), PPIHC Archives

PPIHC PRESENTS GRIFFIN SAULSBURY WITH 2025 RISING TO THE OCCASION AWARD IN MEMORY OF HARRY MARTIN

Colorado Springs, CO — It isn’t often someone as dedicated as Harry Martin steps up to volunteer. It’s more of a rarity for someone to continue to volunteer for decades. Harry not only served the PPIHC as an eager and dependable volunteer, but he did it with a huge smile on his face, making everyone he met feel welcome.

Harry’s wife of nearly 50 years, Marianne, wanted to honor a PPIHC volunteer who displayed the same spirit. She collaborated with the PPIHC to establish the Harry Martin Rising to the Occasion Award. Eligibility criteria was simple – event volunteers would submit nominations, recommending others for the award, based on interactions they witnessed.

CONGRATULATIONS GRIFFIN SAULSBURY

Griffin Saulsbury, a recent high school graduate, received a remarkable three nominations from fellow volunteers for this year’s award.

Marianne Martin presented Saulsbury with a custom award naming him the 2025 Rising to the Occasion winner, $100 in cash, and fittingly a Culver’s gift card. Harry’s favorite spot to grab a bite, especially custard, was Culver’s.

One thing Griffin and Harry had in common was a love of skiing. Harry helped build the first chairlift at Arapahoe Basin while Griffin has been skiing for 17 years. He first stood on a snowboard at one year old!

“To be a part of this world-renowned event is a special feeling. It’s pretty meaningful to see everyone enjoying the race and knowing you played a part in it.”
Griffin Saulsbury

BRAVING THE STORM

Volunteers who worked with and observed him on the mountain submitted nominations describing his dedication to the role.

“On the evening of Saturday, June 21, a sudden and violent windstorm struck the Glen Cove campsite. As part of the team, Griffin was fully engaged in the collective effort to secure the site. Together, we worked to stabilize equipment, remove hazards, patrol the area, and clear debris from the road — all under rapidly deteriorating weather conditions.”

“Throughout this challenging situation, Griffin demonstrated professionalism, strong situational awareness, and a steady presence that helped keep the team focused. He remained calm and fully committed from start to finish.”

“Outside of storm response, Griffin was a key asset to the team. He consistently stood out for his clear and timely radio communications, often the first to respond and always keeping things running smoothly. His actions reflect the highest standards of teamwork and professionalism.”

Q&A

First time you experienced the PPIHC: “My dad had been going to the race for a few years. Volunteering this year was a new experience for me, and doing it with my dad was really special, too.”

Volunteer Roles: “I graduated in May from Manitou Springs High School. I was really involved in anything STEM, including Robotics. I also love being outdoors and helping with mountain bike trail building and the Fountain Creek clean up.”

“On Pikes Peak this year, I was volunteering on the mountain from Saturday afternoon through the race on Sunday.”

Education: “I’m entering CU Boulder this year to study Engineering.”

What do you drive? “A 2001 Audi TT”

Favorite moment from this year’s race: “Watching that yellow Porsche ST coming around the corner at Glen Cove was one of the coolest things I’ve ever seen.”

ABOUT HARRY MARTIN – A VOLUNTEER AT HEART

Don Sanborn, current president of the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Historical Association described Harry Martin and his passion for the race. “Aside from his family and friends, Harry’s greatest love was always the Pikes Peak Hill Climb. He volunteered in various capacities with the Hill Climb as long as I knew him. What always impressed me about Harry is that no job or position was too large or too small. He loved the race so much that, even if he didn’t have a specified volunteer role, he would just look for things that needed to be done and take care of them. I loved the fact that you could rely on him to be ready to jump in and help wherever a need arose, and you could also count on the job getting done right.”

Martin began his involvement as a volunteer on Pikes Peak back in the early 1960s as a crew member for stock car driver, Nick Sanborn, but it didn’t stop there. He continued to step in anywhere he was needed, always with his signature grin. Whether he was working the press room, answering phones in the office, staging cars in the museum, or serving burgers at the officials appreciation barbeque, Martin could be counted on to show up in a big way. And he did, year after year, decade after decade. He was often a familiar sight at the Start Line, after the race, waving to fans as they left the mountain, saying ‘thanks for coming’ and ‘see you next year.

VOLUNTEER SIGN UP OPENS IN MARCH, 2026

ALPINE BANK REWARDS TWO PPIHC VOLUNTEERS

Colorado Springs, CO — Since the earliest day of the Race to the Clouds, volunteers have played a major role in ensuring the course is ready, fans feel welcome, communication roles are staffed, and so much more.

Volunteering for the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb takes a special kind of person. One who is eager for the experience, committed to their duties, and willing to embrace the event with enthusiasm.

An army of nearly 150 service-minded individuals, many assigned to duties they’ve performed for years, not only show up to help at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, but are vital to its success.

This year, two PPIHC volunteers were selected to receive awards based on the number of shifts they volunteered and orientation sessions completed. Anne Sasko and Layne Thomason each received a $250 VISA gift card as a thank you from Alpine Bank and the PPIHC.

“Alpine Bank appreciates the opportunity to support a long-standing, highly valued non-profit in Colorado Springs, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. They continue to elevate the Pikes Peak community year after year with this race, and we’re all better because of their efforts. Thank you to the PPIHC for a fantastic summer of racing to the clouds, and congratulations to the two PPIHC volunteers chosen for this award.”

Matt Hanson
Market President, Alpine Bank

MEET ANNE SASKO
PPIHC Volunteer

Anne Sasko has always been interested in racing and said her father was “an F1 fanatic.” Growing up, she lived in Belgium for two years and during that time her dad bought a 1971 Porsche 911e. She’s now a second-generation Porsche owner.

“My dad attended the Pikes Peak Hill Climb back in the 1980s, so I knew about it from early on,” Sasko recalled. “Once I moved to Colorado, I knew it was an awesome opportunity to participate in this event.”

A volunteer at heart, she shared, “I’ve done a lot of volunteering in the last 10 years, including seven years with the Red Cross. I’ve done wildfire mitigation for Custer County residents, and I’ve served on two boards, Chamber of Commerce and Meals on Wheels.”

“The first year I volunteered for PPIHC, I worked in the parking lot next to the pits, which was an awesome opportunity,” exclaimed Sasko. “After they shut down the mountain to traffic, I was able to walk through the pits and meet several of the drivers.

“The second year I volunteered, I worked at the 9 Mile camping area. That included the three things I’m most passionate about: volunteering, camping, and racing. I met so many people from all over. Some of them drove just an hour, others drove for days just to see the race. We all had one thing in common, we absolutely loved racing.

“We cheered on each driver that passed us at nearly 100 miles per hour. It was a type of camaraderie I haven’t experienced at other race tracks, such as NASCAR, Indy, or F1, where everybody has their favorite.”

“You’ll meet people from all over the US, and sometimes all over the world. You’ll create memories and, at the same time, watch some extremely skilled racing. It’s definitely the opportunity of a lifetime.”

Anne Sasko
PPIHC Volunteer

Sasko explained, “My dad passed away in 2014, but when I was camping on that mountain, volunteering and meeting new fans, I could feel him smiling down on me.”

MEET LAYNE THOMASON
PPIHC Volunteer

Layne Thomason has been a volunteer on the mountain since he moved to Colorado Springs five years ago. He heard about the opportunity through a friend in the auto industry, and after the first year, he fell in love with it.

Thomason shared, “I’ve always been a ‘car guy’ but PPIHC is like nothing I’d ever experienced. It is, to this day, and will probably remain, my favorite time of the year.”

“I’ve had a few different roles during my time as a volunteer PPIHC, including on race day at Ski Area. One of my favorite duties is setting up for Fan Fest. Getting to meet new people, along with the race teams, and hear their stories, is just unmatched.”

“I’d encourage people to be open-minded when it comes to branching out and attending new events. After all, you never know if it’ll become something you want to be a part of every year.”

Layne Thomason
PPIHC Volunteer

Thomason recalled one of his favorite memories as a PPIHC volunteer, “It was my second year on the mountain and I realized I hadn’t prepared for cold weather. As it goes, it was a very, very cold weekend, but I still had a blast and made the most of it!”

Asked about future plans to volunteer on Pikes Peak, Thomason was quick to reply, “I moved to Oklahoma in 2024, but regardless of distance, I still plan to return for PPIHC 2026, and continuing for as long as I possibly can. I’m absolutely honored to be a part of something so special and great for Colorado Springs.”

VOLUNTEER SIGN UP OPENS IN MARCH, 2026

Photos by Anne Sasko and Layne Thomason