Global automotive technology leader adds Fast 15 sponsorship, fleet lighting support and fan engagement initiatives for the 104th Running.

Colorado Springs, Colorado, May 19, 2026 – HELLA, a global leader in automotive lighting and electronics, announces its return to the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb with an expanded role for 2026. This year, HELLA becomes the official naming partner of the iconic Fast 15 qualifying shootout, now known as the HELLA Fast 15, spotlighting the fastest competitors on the mountain.

In addition to its Fast 15 entitlement sponsorship, HELLA will provide the Race to the Clouds with advanced warning lighting for its Safety Truck fleet. Deployed across all 12 official support vehicles, HELLA lighting ensures maximum visibility, reliability, and safety on one of the most demanding courses in motorsports.

“Pikes Peak is the ultimate proving ground,” said Rob Tinson, Founder of aftermarketREADY and partner to HELLA. “Supporting the fleet with critical warning lighting reinforces HELLA’s commitment to performance and safety in extreme conditions.”

Following its debut last year, the HELLA Hype Awards return for 2026, expanding to two awards. Leading up to race day on June 21, fans can vote for the teams they are most excited to see compete. Two teams will be recognized based on fan votes, each receiving a cash prize and a custom HELLA trophy. Fans are encouraged to follow official Pikes Peak Hill Climb channels for details.

“HELLA’s expanded presence at Pikes Peak reflects the kind of partnership we value deeply,” said Pikes Peak International Hill Climb CEO Melissa Eickhoff. “From the HELLA Fast 15 to supporting our Safety Truck fleet with advanced safety lighting, HELLA is enhancing both the competition and the operation behind it. They understand the innovation and proving-ground spirit of this race, and we’re excited to grow the partnership.”

HELLA also continues its partnership with brand ambassador and defending Time Attack #1 Champion, Robb Holland, competing with Rotek Racing. Holland will drive a HELLA-liveried Porsche GT4R, built by Kellymoss.

“Whether you’re on a family trip up the mountain or pushing the limits on a course like this, braking technology, electronics, and visibility are everything,” said Robb Holland. “Partnering with HELLA gives us the confidence to perform at the highest level.”

In partnership with Rotek Racing, HELLA will debut a new mobile activation trailer and RV rig, bringing the brand to automotive events nationwide.

Fans can meet the competitors of the HELLA Fast 15 during Fan Fest, presented by Toyo Tires, on Friday, June 19, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. in downtown Colorado Springs. The drivers will sign autographs and engage with fans ahead of Race Day on June 21.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

VOTE FOR THE PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNER

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

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

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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

The post 100 Days Out appeared first on Pikes Peak International 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

The post 2026 Pikes Peak Hill Climb Competitors Announced appeared first on Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.

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

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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

The post 4th Annual PPIHC Poster Art Contest Is Open appeared first on Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.

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

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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

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