Colorado Springs, Colorado, June 16, 2026 – The first day of practice and qualifying for the 104th Running of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, got underway Tuesday morning under sunny skies and cool temperatures on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain.

The 12.42-mile course is divided into three sections for Race Week activities: Lower, Middle and Upper. Competitors are assigned to practice groups and rotate each day to a new section. The Lower Section serves as the event’s qualifying sector, where competitors best time determines the starting order for Race Day.

As is often the case on the opening day of Race Week, several teams worked through mechanical issues while others focused on gathering data and refining setups. Despite a handful of early challenges, competitors completed multiple runs across all three sections of the mountain.

Day 1: Tuesday, June 16

Lower Section (Qualifying): Open Wheel, Time Attack 1

Middle Section: Unlimited (both classes), Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy, by Yokohama

(both classes)

Upper Section: Pikes Peak Open, Exhibition – Ultra4 USA

Tuesday’s most significant action came in the Lower Section, where Open Wheel and Time Attack 1 competitors recorded their official qualifying times. Open Wheel veteran Dan Novembre led qualifying with a best run of 3:42.746, followed by Codie Vahsholtz at 3:51.323.

Mirl Swan posted the third-fastest Open Wheel qualifying time at 3:58.994 before making contact with the guardrail just beyond the finish line at Gilly’s Corner. The incident briefly brought out a red flag, but Swan was uninjured.

In Time Attack 1, IndyCar veteran JR Hildebrand paced the field with a time of 3:57.504 in his Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X. Jeff Zwart was second quickest at 4:02.927 in his Porsche GT2 RS Clubsport, while three-time King of the Mountain David Donner rounded out the top three with a 4:05.988 in his Porsche Turbo S.

Elsewhere on the mountain, some of the event’s biggest names began making their presence known during practice sessions. Five-time King of the Mountain Romain Dumas posted the fastest time in the Middle Section at 2:10.079, followed by defending King of the Mountain Simone Faggioli at 2:12.726. In the Upper Section, rookie Billy Johnson topped the day’s timesheets with a run of 2:34.701.

Practice and qualifying continue Wednesday as competitors look to build momentum and secure favorable starting positions for Race Day on June 21.

VIEW FULL PRACTICE RESULTS

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Torrance, California, June 15, 2026 – Two-time U.S. Olympian and Team USA Bobsled pilot Kaysha Love will drive an Acura MDX Type S as the official pace car for the 104th Running of the “Race to the Clouds” – The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, on June 21.

Acura and Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC US) will be striving to set a new course record in an Acura Integra Type S DE5 race car in the highly competitive Time Attack 1 division with Pikes Peak class-winner, two-time Formula Drift champion and HRC US driver Dai Yoshihara behind the wheel. Acura seeks to break the front-wheel-drive course record of 10:48.094 – set in 2018 by Acura engineer and Pikes Peak veteran Nick Robinson with a 500-horsepower Acura TLX.

FROM THE BOBSLED TRACK TO “AMERICA’S MOUNTAIN”

With a livery inspired by the red, white and blue of Love’s Team USA Bobsled, the Acura MDX Type S will lead the field on the challenging 156-turn, 12.42-mile mountain course. Hunter Powell—a fellow Team USA bobsledder who competed at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 and Love’s fiancé—will ride shotgun.

Love brings an exciting blend of athletic achievement and passion for performance to this year’s race. In 2020, she transitioned from elite gymnastics and collegiate track to bobsled, making her a push athlete for USA Bobsled/Skeleton. In 2023, she became a pilot and went on to win the Monobob world title in 2025. In Milan, Love recorded a fifth-place finish with a total time of 3:49.71 in the Two-woman Bobsled and a seventh-place finish with a time of 3:59.27 in the women’s Monobob.

Love is an Acura athlete ambassador, and as part of the company’s partnership with USA Bobsled/Skeleton (USABS), she has worked closely with engineers at the Honda Automotive Laboratories of Ohio (HALO) to enhance the performance and speed of her bobsled. Together, Acura and USABS share the hope that advanced engineering, testing and analysis will enable the athletes to achieve faster times and secure podium finishes.

Honda is also the Official Automotive Partner of Team USA, supporting both the United States Olympic and Paralympic teams during Milano Cortina 2026 and the upcoming LA28 Games. Looking ahead to 2028, Honda will continue to support the world’s top athletes as a Founding Partner of the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games and provide a wide range of Honda and Acura mobility products for use throughout the LA28 Games.

ACURA MAKING 16TH PIKES PEAK APPEARANCE

Motorsports is a critical proof point of Acura Precision Crafted Performance, including the premium performance brand’s Pikes Peak efforts. This is the 16th consecutive year Acura is competing at Pikes Peak, with the Acura team amassing an impressive 12 first place in-division finishes, over 30 podiums and multiple course records.

The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is the second oldest motorsports race in America and a longstanding tradition in Colorado Springs. Since 1916, drivers from all over the world race against the clock on the iconic 12.42-mile course featuring 156 turns, climbing from a starting elevation of 9,390 feet to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain.

HRC PERFORMANCE PARTS

HRC US, the North American racing arm for both Honda and Acura, has created a new business to produce authentic HRC Performance Parts for customer use for street, track and off-road applications. Prototypes from its forthcoming line of performance and capability enhancing parts for on-road and off-road applications were showcased at the 2025 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

Southern California-based HRC US has been winning races and championships on and off-road for three decades and is applying this extensive know-how to a new line of authentic performance parts focused on enhancing all elements of the driving experience—engine, suspension and braking performance—along with significant weight savings. As a successful racing brand for decades, HRC US is uniquely positioned to offer parts to retail customers in North America to enhance the performance of their own Honda and Acura vehicles.

ACURA MDX TYPE S

This year’s Pikes Peak Pace Car, the MDX Type S, is the high-performance variant of the Acura MDX, America’s best-selling 3-row luxury SUV of all-time.

Driven by two-time U.S. Olympian and Team USA Bobsled pilot Kaysha Love, the 2026 MDX Type S features a turbocharged V6 engine, torque-vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™, height adjustable air suspension, performance-tuned adaptive dampers and massive Brembo front brake calipers.

About Acura

Acura is a leading premium auto brand committed to delivering expressive styling, innovative engineering and engaging dynamics, all built on the brand’s Precision Crafted Performance DNA. The Acura lineup consists of four models: the Integra sport sedan, and the ADX, RDX, and MDX sport-utility vehicles. About 85% of Acura vehicles sold in America in 2025 were made in America, using domestic and globally made parts.

More information about Acura is available at: https://acuranews.com/en-US.

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Colorado Springs, Colorado, June 9, 2026 – Fans around the world will once again be able to follow the action from the 104th Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, on Sunday, June 21.

PIKES PEAK LIVE PRESENTED BY THE MOBIL 1 BRAND

Building on the success of last year’s broadcast, RACER Network will bring live coverage of the Race to the Clouds to viewers across the world. Pikes Peak Live, presented by Mobil 1 coverage begins at 7:00 a.m. MT and follows competitors as they tackle the legendary 12.42-mile course featuring 156 turns and an elevation gain of more than 4,700 feet to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain.

The coverage further underscores the Mobil 1 brand’s continued commitment to motorsports and helping bring fans closer to premier racing events around the world. As a longtime supporter of high-performance racing, the Mobil 1 team is helping elevate coverage and storytelling throughout Race Week across broadcast, digital and social platforms.

“Pikes Peak represents one of motorsport’s ultimate tests of performance, endurance and innovation,” said Austin Johansen, North America Marketing Manager on behalf of the Mobil 1 brand. “The Mobil 1 team is proud to help bring fans closer to the Race to the Clouds and support coverage that captures the intensity and spirit of this iconic event. From the mountain to the broadcast, we’re excited to help fans experience what makes Pikes Peak one of the most unique and demanding races in the world.”

This year’s event will also feature Mobil 1-supported drivers including Emelia Hartford, Jeff Zwart, JR Hildebrand and Robb Holland as they take on the legendary Race to the Clouds.

Fans worldwide can also stream the race live on RACER+, free with email registration, ensuring motorsports enthusiasts everywhere can experience one of the world’s most challenging and iconic competitions in real time.

Additional coverage and highlights will be available throughout the event on the RACER YouTube channel (@RACER.HQ). The full live stream can be viewed here.

In addition to the live broadcast, the PPIHC will benefit from coverage across the RACER ecosystem, amplifying the event through long-form features, behind-the-scenes storytelling, driver profiles and highlights. Coverage throughout Race Week will also spotlight the drivers, teams and technology powering the event, offering fans a deeper look into the preparation and performance required to compete on America’s Mountain. This combined reach across broadcast, digital and social platforms will offer an unprecedented spotlight on the event and the moments that make the Race to the Clouds unlike any other motorsports competition in the world.

ADDITIONAL WAYS TO FOLLOW ALONG

Fans can also follow every run with live timing and scoring at PPIHC.org, providing real-time updates from the mountain throughout Race Day.

Local listeners can tune in to KRDO NewsRadio 105.5 FM and 1240 AM for live race coverage, updates, and reports from the mountain.

Follow the Pikes Peak Hill Climb on social media and lookout for Full Race Day onboards on YouTube.

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16 First-Time Competitors Prepare for Their Debut in the Race to the Clouds

Colorado Springs, Colorado, June 9, 2026 – The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, has challenged competitors from around the world for more than a century. This year, 16 drivers will join that legacy as they make their first attempt at the Race to the Clouds on June 21, 2026.

The 2026 rookie class features everything from sports car racers and off-road champions to garage-built competitors and lifelong Pikes Peak enthusiasts. Despite their varied backgrounds, all 16 newcomers share a common goal: reaching the 14,115-foot summit after conquering the 12.42-mile course and its 156 turns.

Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy by Yokohama – Turbo

Catesby Jones (Fort Lauderdale, Florida) arrives at the mountain with an impressive resume behind the wheel of his BMW M4 GT4 EVO. A winner of One Lap of America, Jones regularly competes in World Racing League, IMSA and SRO competition.

Running alongside him in a sister BMW M4 GT4 EVO is 30-year motorsports veteran Carlos de Quesada (Tampa, Florida), who will make his first attempt at the Race to the Clouds. Both entries feature art car-inspired liveries through their shared program with Alegra Motorsports.

Pikes Peak Open

The Pikes Peak Open division welcomes an international entry alongside two accomplished American competitors.

Billy Johnson (Loxahatchee, Florida) enters Race Day as one of the most recognizable names in the rookie class. Driving the 2015 Porsche GT3 Turbo Cup known as “Lucy,” Johnson brings extensive NASCAR, sports car and endurance racing experience to America’s Mountain.

Nick Plocienik (Minneapolis, Minnesota) will make his debut in a 2023 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE. Plocienik brings IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge and endurance racing experience to the mountain.

Representing France, Valentin Simonet will campaign a 2015 Renault RS01, marking the first appearance of a Renault in PPIHC competition. Simonet competes in the French GT Championship.

Time Attack 1

Two rookies with strong credentials from the hill climb and time attack worlds join the Time Attack 1 division.

Maciej Serafin (Gorlice, Poland) arrives at Pikes Peak as a multi-time Polish Hill Climb Champion and two-time European Hill Climb Champion. Driving a 2019 Honda Civic TCR/JAS, Serafin will also become the first Polish driver to compete at Pikes Peak.

Rob Wilmoth (Apex, North Carolina) brings experience from the Appalachian Hill Climb Series and will pilot a 2018 Audi RS3 under the FasterSkunk Racing banner. Wilmoth and his team have partnered with Racing for ALS, carrying the foundation’s message to the mountain as part of their rookie campaign.

Unlimited

The largest rookie contingent can be found in the Unlimited division, where five newcomers will take on some of the fastest and most diverse machinery in the field.

Unlimited – Production Based

Kurt Dieker (Maize, Kansas) has spent the past four years supporting the Dusold Designs Camaro program before launching his own effort in a 1965 Ford Mustang Fastback.

Joshua Briggs (Savannah, Georgia) will challenge Pikes Peak in a 1995 Mazda Miata.

Jim Morris (Coventry, Great Britain) will drive a 2014 Volkswagen Golf. Morris hopes to build on his success at Goodwood while chasing a place among the fastest front-wheel-drive competitors in Hill Climb history.

Unlimited – Super Unlimited

John Annunziata (Sandy, Utah) co-founded Stryker Motorsports, which fielded its first PPIHC entry in 2025. This year, he climbs into the cockpit himself, piloting a 2025 Wolf Extreme.

Franco Caruso (Comiso, Italy) brings more than three decades of racing experience in European cup and hill climb competition. He will campaign a 2018 Nova Proto NP01 Bardahl in his first appearance on America’s Mountain.

Exhibition Ultra4 USA

For the first time in 15 years, Ultra4 USA returns to the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in an official capacity, bringing four decorated off-road racers to the mountain.

Phillip McGilton (Tuscaloosa, Alabama) brings a 2020 Campbell Enterprises entry to Pikes Peak. The reigning Ultra4 National and Eastern Champion in the Unlimited 4400 class.

Casey Currie (Norco, California) will drive a 2025 Jeep Gladiator. Currie made history in 2020 as the first American driver to win the UTV category at the Dakar Rally.

Loren Healy (Farmington, New Mexico) arrives in a 2021 Ford Bronco. A five-time Ultra4 champion and two-time King of the Hammers Stock Class champion, Healy is among the most accomplished drivers in American off-road racing.

Paul Wolff (Alton, Illinois) will pilot a 2018 UFO 4400 Truck. He holds the record for the most race wins in the Ultra4 series by a single driver.

While their paths to Pikes Peak have been vastly different, all 16 rookies now share the same challenge. On June 21, they’ll make their first run at the summit and join the long list of competitors who have tested themselves on America’s Mountain.

Photo Credit: Patrick Daly, Jake Bond, Elizabeth Wyman

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Expanded 12-block downtown celebration brings race cars, driver autographs, car shows, FMX action, and family fun to Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, Colorado, June 5, 2026 – Fan Fest, presented by Toyo Tires, returns to downtown Colorado Springs on Friday, June 19, as the official kickoff to race weekend for the 104th Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo. This year’s event features an expanded footprint and more attractions than ever before.

One of Colorado Springs’ largest and most popular street festivals, Fan Fest will take over 12 blocks of downtown from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. along Tejon Street, stretching from Platte Avenue to Vermijo Avenue. More than 35,000 fans are expected to attend the free community celebration ahead of Race Day on June 21.

“Fan Fest is where we get to share the excitement of the Race to the Clouds with the local community in a huge way,” said Melissa Eickhoff, CEO of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. “This year’s expanded footprint allows us to bring even more competitors, sponsors, vendors, and entertainment into the heart of downtown Colorado Springs while creating a memorable experience for race fans of all ages.”

More than 60 competitors and their race vehicles will line the streets alongside 75 vendors and sponsor displays, giving fans a rare opportunity to meet the drivers and teams preparing to take on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain.

Fans can collect autographs from the HELLA Fast 15 drivers, featuring the fastest qualifiers in the 2026 Race to the Clouds. The autograph session will take place from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., and fans can pick up a free limited-edition poster to collect signatures from all 15 drivers. A separate autograph session will also feature the four competitors selected for the Kumho Tire Gaining Traction Program.

Returning favorites include the Freestyle Motocross Show, with practice runs beginning at 6:15 p.m. and the main demonstration scheduled for 8:15 p.m. Fans can also enjoy giveaways from sponsors, official PPIHC merchandise, food vendors, and interactive displays throughout the event.

BIGGER THAN EVER

New for 2026 is the Car Show Block, presented by FCP Euro and K Series Parts. Located near the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, the display area will showcase some of Colorado’s top European and JDM builds while a live DJ keeps the energy high throughout the evening.

Fan Fest also expands its popular Hill Climb Hero Beer Garden experience with two beer garden locations serving beverages from some of Colorado Springs’ favorite breweries, including Mash Mechanix – The Official Craft Brewery of the PPIHC, Gunslinger, Phantom Canyon, Urban Animal, Bristol, Cerberus, Goat Patch and Red Leg.

GET HERE EARLY

Everyone loves a souvenir! Get your limited edition 2026 Fan Fest Collector’s Cup at one of the Hill Climb Hero Beer Gardens. With only 500 produced, the aluminum solo cup is sure to go fast.

Don’t forget to stop by the PPIHC info tent and grab a copy of this year’s winning Poster Art Contest – Just one of the many giveaways at Fan Fest!

Fan Fest is free and open to the public and will take place rain or shine.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT

The Pikes Peak Hill Climb Fan Fest was started in 2008 in collaboration with downtown business partners like Sam Guadagnoli and Pikes Peak Hill Climb visionary board members Lou Mellini and Tom Osborne.

Fan Fest would not be possible without the support of the City of Colorado Springs and the Lodgers and Automobile Rental Tax (LART) fund, whose investment helps attract visitors, drive tourism, and showcase the Pikes Peak region to a global audience. We also extend our sincere thanks to our sponsors and vendors, the competitors who generously share their time with fans, and the volunteers who help bring the event to life. Together, they create a world-class experience that celebrates the Race to the Clouds and the Colorado Springs community.

Photo Credit: Larry Chen Photo, Jason Zindroski

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The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, is more than a race. It’s the perfect excuse to experience everything Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak Region have to offer.

Whether you’re traveling from across the globe or just a few hours away, we encourage you to make a week of it and turn your Race Day experience into an unforgettable Colorado adventure.

Head to the Pikes Peak Region Attractions YouTube page to see for yourself top attractions in the area!

Race week kicks off with Tech Inspection on Monday, June 15 at Broadmoor World Arena. This free event gives individuals an up close look at the cars.

COLORADO SPRINGS AIRPORT MAKES TRAVEL EASY

Flying in for Race Week? Colorado Springs Airport offers convenient access to the region, getting you from the terminal to your hotel and the mountain in minutes. With easy travel options and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect starting point for your race week experience.

SEE ALL HOTEL PARTNERS

LEARN ABOUT PIKES PEAK HILL CLIMB HISTORY

Step inside the Penrose Heritage Museum and discover the rich history of the Pikes Peak Hill Climb. Featuring race cars, artifacts, photographs, and stories from more than a century of competition, it’s a must-see for motorsports fans.

RIDE TO THE SUMMIT

Take a ride aboard the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway for a one-of-a-kind journey to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak – America‘s Mountain. Enjoy breathtaking views along the way, then explore the Summit House, grab a world-famous Pikes Peak donut, and experience one of Colorado’s most unforgettable attractions.

A WILD COLORADO EXPERIENCE

Home to more than 750 animals and breathtaking mountain views, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Feed agiraffe, explore exhibits from around the world, and enjoy one of America‘s most unique mountain zoos.

Cool off after a day at the zoo with a pint of the Hill Climb Hero, the Official Craft Beer of the PPIHC, at Mash Mechanix Brewing Co.

EXPLORE GARDEN OF THE GODS

Discover one of Colorado’s most iconic landmarks at Garden of the Gods. This free public park features breathtaking red rock formations, scenic trails, and unforgettable views of Pikes Peak – America‘s Mountain.

CELEBRATE TEAM USA

Located in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum celebrates the athletes who have represented our nation on the world’s biggest stage. Interactive exhibits and inspiring stories make it one of the region’s premier attractions. Pikes Peak Hill Climb spectators receive a special rate for tickets!

BUY MUSEUM TICKETS

Looking for even more ways to explore the region? Visit the Visit Colorado Springs website for information on upcoming events, local attractions, dining, outdoor recreation, and more.

Photo Credit: COS Airport, The Broadmoor, USOPM

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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.

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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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