Category: Race News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, June 20, 2023

QUALIFYING & PRACTICE NEWS
DAVID DONOHUE SETS TIME ATTACK 1 QUALIFYING RECORD

Colorado Springs, Colorado – It’s Race Week and the 101st Running of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo is gearing up. The first day of practice and qualifying took place early this morning as 66 drivers got their first look at the mountain in one of three sections.

LOWER SECTION – Qualifying took place on the lower section for the Porsche Pikes Peak Trophy by Yokohama division and the Time Attack 1 competitors.

Brumos Racing was out in front in the Time Attack 1 division with West Chester, Pennsylvania’s David Donohue behind the wheel of the iconic #59 2019 Porsche GT2 RS Clubsport. Donohue clocked a new TA1 qualifying record of 03:53.618, besting his 2022 record of 03:55.750.

Two PPIHC rookies laid down the fastest times in the Porsche Pikes Peak Trophy by Yokohama division. Hayden Bradley, racing out of St. Petersburg, Florida, and the youngest competitor in the field at 18 years old, was the division’s top qualifier with a time of 04:27.091 in his #727 2020 Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport. Nuno Caetano of Lisbon, Portugal clocked a qualifying time just seconds behind Bradley in his #77 2020 Porsche Cayman Clubsport in 04:31.519. The division qualifying record was set by Tanner Foust in 2021 in 04:21.277.

MIDDLE SECTION – The Exhibition and Open Wheel divisions made their practice runs on the middle section. Randy Pobst ran fastest in the Exhibition division, just one second ahead of Tanner Foust and the Radford entry. Former Parade of Champions driver, Matt Mullins, was the fastest rookie in the same group.

Woodland Park’s Codie Vahsholtz outpaced the other Open Wheel competitors, with PPIHC rookie Sylas Montgomery bringing his former Silver Crown racer, a MFG Road Course Sprint Car to the same division.

UPPER SECTION – The wind in the upper section, along with plenty of snow, reminded drivers it isn’t quite springtime at 14,115 feet. Competitors in the Pikes Peak Open and Unlimited divisions braced for the chill as they warmed their tires in anticipation of their runs. Reigning course record holder, Romain Dumas, returned to the mountain in the 2023 Ford Performance SuperVan 4 and clocked the fastest time in the upper section in 02:24.73 – fourteen seconds ahead of fellow Frenchman, Raphael Astier, in the A110 Alpine GT4 Evo. The division’s only PPIHC Rookie, Satoshi Yagi of Japan had his first taste of the mountain, completing three practice runs.

Robin Shute, three-time King of the Mountain, proved he still has what it takes to send his 2018 Wolf TSC-FS through the upper section turns. Shute’s fast time on the upper section topped the Unlimited division, with Dan Novembre, also in a Wolf, running only five seconds off Shute’s pace. PPIHC Rookie, Duncan Cowper, from Great Britain in the Alcon Brake entry, a 2018 Cowper Dax Rush Pikes Peak Special, was the fastest rookie among the Unlimited competitors.

Competitors will rotate sections on Wednesday. Pikes Peak Open and Unlimited will qualify on the lower section. Porsche Pikes Peak Trophy by Yokohama and Time Attack 1 move to the middle, and Exhibition and Open Wheel drivers challenge the upper section.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 16, 2023

THINGS TO DO DURING RACE WEEK

Colorado Springs, Colorado — The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo welcomes you to Colorado Springs and invites you to experience not only the Race to the Clouds, but the best offerings in the Pikes Peak Region.

PPIHC TICKETS
SOLD OUTWhile tickets to the mountain are sold out, catch the action live from the Mobil 1 YouTube page!

June 25, 2023

LISTEN LIVE ON RACE DAY

Can’t watch the race or attend in person? Listen to the Official Live Radio Broadcast on KRDO 105.5FM, 1240AM, 92.5FM or KRDO.com

Technical Inspection

Monday June 19, 2023
8:30 am MST
2023 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Tech Inspection
The Broadmoor World Arena

Fan Fest

Friday June 23, 2023
5:00 pm MST
2023 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Fan Fest
Downtown Colorado Springs

PORSCHE DRIVER MEET & GREET

Save the date for the annual Porsche Colorado Springs Pikes Peak International Hill Climb driver meet & greet presented by Yokohama! Q&A hosted by Jeff Zwart. Meet Tanner Foust, Romain Dumas, Hurley Haywood, David Donohue, and more.

June 21, 2023
5pm-8pm MST

917 Motor City Drive

CONCERT AT WEIDNER FIELD

Attend Weidner Field, home of the Switchbacks, and enjoy country music artist Cody Johnson with special guests
Riley Green & Ned LeDoux

June 22, 2023
BOOK HERE

LONI UNSER AUTOGRAPH SIGNING AT O’REILLY AUTO PARTS

O’Reilly Auto Parts is hosting an autograph session with Loni Unser along with Mobil 1 giveaways!

June 24, 2023
11am-1pm MST

403 South 26th Street
Colorado Springs

BMW PRE-RACE EVENT FOR FANS & DRIVERS

Winslow BMW of Colorado Springs opens its doors to fans and drivers to attend their pre-race event.

June 24, 2023
9am-1pm MST

5845 N. Nevada Avenue

VISIT THE PENROSE HERITAGE MUSEUM

Check out the Pikes Peak Hill Climb experience! Penrose Heritage Museum showcases the history and heritage of the Pikes Peak region through the personal collections of Colorado Springs’ philanthropists Spencer and Julie Penrose.

11 Lake Circle

RIDE THE COG RAILWAY

Enjoy the breathtaking views, but make no mistake, this is an adventure and an experience that you make your own. Options abound if you prefer to forgo the round-trip experience on the train: hike up, ride the train down. Take the Cog up, bike down. Whatever suits your mood…and energy level.

VISIT MASH MECHANIX BREWING CO.

Celebrate Pikes Peak’s 101st Running and enjoy Mash Mechanix Hill Climb Hero International Pale Ale.

429 E. Pikes Peak Avenue

DRIVE THE COURSE

Take the opportunity to drive the course (at posted speeds of course!) that this year’s Pikes Peak competitors will race. Reservations required to drive to the Summit.
BOOK HERE

SEE THE PIKES PEAK REGION

From driving America’s Mountain to local breweries, the Pikes Peak region offers over 55 attractions. Visitors will have no shortage of things to do in COS!

VISIT THE U.S. OLYMPIC & PARALYMPIC MUSEUM

The Museum is dedicated to capturing and sharing the history of Team USA in the Olympic and Paralympic Games, as well as the hopes and dreams of future generations.

IMBIBE AT AXE AND THE OAK DISTILLERY

Try Axe and the Oak Distillery Pikes Peak Hill Shine or the
2023 Pikes Peak Bourbon Whiskey.

ABOUT THE PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL HILL CLIMB
First staged in 1916, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is the second oldest race in America. The invitation-only event, often referred to as The Race to the Clouds is held annually on the last Sunday of June on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, near Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA. The famous 12.42-mile (20 km) course consists of 156 turns, boasts an elevation gain of 4,725 feet (1,440 m), and reaches a finish line at 14,115 feet (4,302 m) above sea level. The PPIHC’s six race divisions feature a wide variety of vehicles – from production-based Time Attack challengers to purpose-built Open Wheel racers and state-of-the-art Unlimited vehicles. The current race record was set in 2018 by Romain Dumas and Volkswagen in the all-electric I.D. R Pikes Peak – 07:57.148.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, June 15, 2023

BEHIND THE WHEEL

LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON

AWEIDAS RETURN FOR

101^st RUNNING OF THE PPIHC

Colorado Springs, CO – The 101st Running of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, presents 70 drivers from around the world and across the USA on June 25. The Boulder, Colorado-based father and son duo, Dan and Trevor, are gearing up to take on the Race to the Clouds.

Photo by Larry Chen

Dan Aweida was drawn to compete on the mountain for the first time in 2014. By 2021, his son, Trevor, was compelled to enter and a father-son duo was born. “It means a ton to me to be able to be racing up the hill with my dad. He got me into racing at a very young age, and I would not be where I am today without his unconditional support,” explained Trevor Aweida. “To be able to race alongside him in this incredible event is an honor and a privilege to experience.”

Several of the most notable father and son teams include Al and Al Unser, Jr., Bobby, Bobby Jr., and Robby Unser (and don’t forget daughter, Jeri); Leonard and Clint Vahsholtz, and more recently Rod and Rhys Millen; along with Clint and Codie Vahsholtz, just to name a few.

Following the loss of not only their home but both of their race cars in Colorado’s 2021 Marshall Fire, the Aweidas stand on the mountain in 2022 with new builds ready to take part in the milestone 100th Running.

From the Marshall fire to securing a last-minute car, Dan pushes his 2012 Ford BOSS 302S Mustang and prepares for the 100th running of Pikes Peak.

Get to Know Dan Aweida:

Three Things For Fans To Know:

I love racing with my son Trevor here at Pikes Peak and World Racing League.

I love my wife and daughter who support us in doing this “silly” racing stuff.

I love Mexican food with good tequila!

Pikes Peak Mentor – Bobby Unser

Favorite Part of the Course – Middle Section

What makes racing on Pikes Peak different from racing anywhere else?

“It’s a public road on a mountain, that is a National Park, which goes from 9,000ft to 14,000ft in elevation. Like no other racetrack on the planet!”

Get to Know Trevor Aweida:

Three Things For Fans To Know:

I have been skiing nearly my whole life.

I love playing bass guitar.

I graduated from the University of Boulder with a Computer Science Degree.

Pikes Peak Mentor – My dad (Dan Aweida)

Favorite Part of the Course – Ragged Edge

What makes racing on Pikes Peak different from racing anywhere else?

“It’s unlike anything else in the world. It’s hard to explain from a driver’s perspective, but simply put, it is incomparable to any other kind of racing available that I know of.”

ABOUT THE PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL HILL CLIMB
First staged in 1916, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is the second oldest race in America. The invitation-only event, often referred to as The Race to the Clouds is held annually on the last Sunday of June on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, near Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA. The famous 12.42-mile (20 km) course consists of 156 turns, boasts an elevation gain of 4,725 feet (1,440 m), and reaches a finish line at 14,115 feet (4,302 m) above sea level. The PPIHC’s six race divisions feature a wide variety of vehicles – from production-based Time Attack challengers to purpose-built Open Wheel racers and state-of-the-art Unlimited vehicles. The current race record was set in 2018 by Romain Dumas and Volkswagen in the all-electric I.D. R Pikes Peak – 07:57.148.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, June 13, 2023

HOW TO CATCH THE ACTION

SUNDAY, JUNE 25

101ST RUNNING OF THE RACE TO THE CLOUDS

Colorado Springs, CO – The 101st running of the iconic Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo takes place on Sunday, June 25. Teams from 12 countries are prepping to challenge the 12.42 mile course while fans with tickets are ready to cheer them on.

If you can’t join us on the mountain, check out all the ways you can catch the action!

ABOUT THE PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL HILL CLIMB
First staged in 1916, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is the second oldest race in America. The invitation-only event, often referred to as The Race to the Clouds is held annually on the last Sunday of June on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, near Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA. The famous 12.42-mile (20 km) course consists of 156 turns, boasts an elevation gain of 4,725 feet (1,440 m), and reaches a finish line at 14,115 feet (4,302 m) above sea level. The PPIHC’s six race divisions feature a wide variety of vehicles – from production-based Time Attack challengers to purpose-built Open Wheel racers and state-of-the-art Unlimited vehicles. The current race record was set in 2018 by Romain Dumas and Volkswagen in the all-electric I.D. R Pikes Peak – 07:57.148.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, June 12, 2023

PPIHC ANNOUNCES HURLEY HAYWOOD 2023 GRAND MARSHAL

Colorado Springs, Colorado — Legendary sports car racer Hurley Haywood will serve as the Grand Marshal of the 2023 Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo. Haywood will make a demonstration run up the mountain in a Taycan Cross Turismo Turbo S on Sunday, June 25.

“Few names have made their mark on American motorsports the way that Hurley Haywood has,” said Melissa Eickhoff, PPIHC Executive Director. “We’re thrilled to have him take part in this year’s Pikes Peak International Hill Climb as Grand Marshal, and can’t wait to see him head up the mountain to kick off this year’s race day.”

The #59 Brumos Porsche colors that Haywood helped make famous over more than four decades of racing will be present in the race as well, with David Donohue once again competing in a Porsche GT2 RS Clubsport in hopes of setting a new Time Attack 1 record.

“With all the success that Porsche has had on Pikes Peak and with David Donohue running a Brumos car again, I’m super excited to be part of the event. I look forward to seeing you all in June!” shared Haywood.

ABOUT HURLEY HAYWOOD
One of a select handful of drivers to complete the Triple Crown of endurance racing, Haywood has won the 24 Hours of Daytona overall five times, 24 Hours of Le Mans three times, and 12 Hours of Sebring twice. The two-time IMSA GT champion was selected to compete in the International Race of Champions four times, most recently in 1995, and concluded his driving career in 2012 with a podium finish in his final 24 Hours of Daytona.

Accolades have come steadily for Haywood since he was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in 2005. He remains the Honorary Chief Instructor at the Porsche Track Experience at Barber Motorsports Park, and he has served as the Grand Marshal of all three Triple Crown endurance racing events that he’s won in his career. His autobiography, co-authored by Sean Cridland, Hurley: From the Beginning, was released in 2018, and a documentary, Hurley, was produced by Patrick Dempsey and released shortly thereafter.

ABOUT THE PORSCHE TAYCAN TURBO S CROSS TURISMO
Grand Marshal Hurley Haywood will be piloting a Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo – the top model of the Taycan range – up to the top of Pikes Peak this year. The Taycan is no stranger to the mountain, having completed a 1,400 mile journey here previously, achieving a Guinness World Record for the greatest altitude change set by an electric car. All Taycan Cross Turismo variants feature a Gravel mode that simultaneously increases the ride height an additional 10 millimeters, sets the suspension firmness, traction and stability control, as well as the torque management system, to maximize grip over loose surfaces, like mud, sand, and gravel. Combined with additional body cladding to minimize errant rock chips to the body, the Taycan Cross Turismo is just as effective on rough surfaces as it is on the asphalt. On more sure-footed roads, the Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo can accelerate from a stop to 60 miles per hour in 2.7 seconds. All variants of the Taycan Cross Turismo feature dual-motor all-wheel drive, two-speed rear transmission, Porsche Adaptive Suspension Management in conjunction with air suspension, Performance Battery Plus and its 800-volt battery architecture, adaptive aerodynamics, panoramic glass roof, and Porsche’s PCM system.

ABOUT THE PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL HILL CLIMB
First staged in 1916, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is the second oldest race in America. The invitation-only event, often referred to as The Race to the Clouds is held annually on the last Sunday of June on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, near Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA. The famous 12.42-mile (20 km) course consists of 156 turns, boasts an elevation gain of 4,725 feet (1,440 m), and reaches a finish line at 14,115 feet (4,302 m) above sea level. The PPIHC’s six race divisions feature a wide variety of vehicles – from production-based Time Attack challengers to purpose-built Open Wheel racers and state-of-the-art Unlimited vehicles. The current race record was set in 2018 by Romain Dumas and Volkswagen in the all-electric I.D. R Pikes Peak – 07:57.148.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 9, 2023

2023 PPIHC AWARDS AND PRIZES

Colorado Springs, Colorado — The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo proudly presents our growing list of awards offered at this year’s race. Thank you to our sponsors and partners who help reward the competitive spirit of our world-class entrants.

The 2023 PPIHC Awards Ceremony, presented by B.R.M. Chronographes will host competitors and teams on Monday, June 26, 2023.

B.R.M. CHRONOGRAPHES

The winner of the Exhibition, Unlimited, Pikes Peak Open, Time Attack 1, Open Wheel and Porsche Pikes Peak Trophy by Yokohama divisions will each receive a custom timepiece, valued at $5,500.

LEARN MORE

INHERENT CUSTOM SPORT COAT KING OF THE MOUNTAIN

The 2023 King of the Mountain will receive a custom-tailored, hand-stitched sport coat designed by Taylor Draper, courtesy of INHERENT. This first-of-its-kind award created exclusively for the overall event champion is crafted of the finest material and valued at $1,600.

LEARN MORE

UNSER LEGACY KING OF THE MOUNTAIN RING

The Unser Legacy King of the Mountain Ring is crafted in 10k Yellow Gold featuring over 1.01 carats of diamonds. The ring reads King of the Mountain Est 1916 atop and has many notable features of PPIHC on the left and right sides.

LEARN MORE

BERGMEISTER TROPHY FASTEST PORCHE

A uniquely-styled commemorative trophy offered by Porsche of Colorado Springs and Fred Veitch will be presented to the driver of the overall fastest Porsche, regardless of division, along with a $1,000 donation to the charity of their choice.

LEARN MORE

ALCON NO HOLDING BACK AWARD

Voucher for $12,000 worth of bespoke race brake/clutch products to the award winner. Chosen by ALCON, this award is presented to the driver who has demonstrated outstanding perseverance and determination in their 2023 race to the 14,115’ summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain.

LEARN MORE

HOOSIER TIRE CONTINGENCY AWARD

Under a multi-year agreement, participants racing in five divisions, including Open Wheel, Exhibition, Pikes Peak Open, Time Attack 1, and Unlimited will have the opportunity to earn up to four (4) free Hoosier tires. To be eligible for the program, teams must use approved Hoosier tires and display Hoosier decals on their vehicles. Tires will be awarded to those taking part in the contingency program based on podium finishes.

LEARN MORE

TURTLE WAX – PREMIUM CAR CARE PRODUCTS FOR ALL DIVISION WINNERS

Premium car care products provided by Turtle Wax for all division winners.

LEARN MORE

FAST 15 QUALIFIERS

Awards presented to the Fast 15 qualifiers in the 2023 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.

GLASSICAL TROPHIES

Proudly presented by the PPIHC to the King of the Mountain, Rookie of the Year, and Top 3 in each division. Trophies feature an etched image of the original Penrose Trophy awarded in 1916. The event logo is paired with division name, podium finish, and trophy sponsor.

PPIHC PRIZE MONEY

A $70,000 purse will be awarded to competitors across five divisions including $5,000 to the King of the Mountain. If a new overall course record is set on Race Day, an additional $10,000 will be awarded to the overall record-setting competitor.

ABOUT THE PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL HILL CLIMB
First staged in 1916, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is the second oldest race in America. The invitation-only event, often referred to as The Race to the Clouds is held annually on the last Sunday of June on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, near Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA. The famous 12.42-mile (20 km) course consists of 156 turns, boasts an elevation gain of 4,725 feet (1,440 m), and reaches a finish line at 14,115 feet (4,302 m) above sea level. The PPIHC’s six race divisions feature a wide variety of vehicles – from production-based Time Attack challengers to purpose-built Open Wheel racers and state-of-the-art Unlimited vehicles. The current race record was set in 2018 by Romain Dumas and Volkswagen in the all-electric I.D. R Pikes Peak – 07:57.148.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, June 8, 2023

BEHIND THE WHEEL

RHYS MILLEN RETURNS TO AMERICA’S MOUNTAIN IN BMW M8 FOR 101^st RUNNING OF THE PPIHC

Colorado Springs, CO – The 101st Running of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, presents 70 drivers from around the world and across the USA on June 25. Veteran competitor, Rhys Millen representing New Zealand returns for his 27th assault on the iconic 12.42 mile course.

Rhys Millen, two-time King of the Mountain is ready to battle the mountain once again, this year in a 2023 BMW M8. Since his first race in 1992, claiming Rookie of the Year honors, Millen has been storming Pikes Peak building on his father’s legacy ever since.

Five-time King of the Mountain, Rod Millen, all-dirt course record holder, Pikes Peak icon and Hall of Famer returned to the mountain in 2022 for the 100th Running of the second oldest race in America proving he still has what it takes, claiming third in the Exhibition division and a remarkable 8th place, overall.

During his two-decades of competing on Pikes Peak, Rhys Millen has earned 14 division wins including eight division records, two King of the Mountain crowns, and has been in the Fast 15 qualifiers since its inception. Tapped by Bentley to pilot their entries in 2018 and 2019, Millen etched back-to-back records for the marque, first in a production SUV, the Bentayga, and second in the 2019 Continental GT.

Beyond his career at Pikes Peak, Millen’s racing resume is a testament to his skill and success. He was the 2006 Tires.com Triple Crown Champion, has competed in multiple X-Games, and is an avid off-road racer. His driving isn’t limited to the track; he has performed as a stunt double and stunt driver in countless commercials and many popular films including the Fast and Furious franchise. Millen was recently honored as a 2023 inductee to the Formula DRIFT Hall of Fame.

Millen celebrating his win in the 2022 Pikes Peak Open division atop America’s Mountain in the 100th Running of the Race to the Clouds. He clocked a 10:52.664 on the wet, foggy course in the dazzling 2016 E-Motion Porsche GT3R TT.

Millen’s 2019 record-setting run in the Bentley Continental GT – the second production car record for Bentley and win in the Exhibition division.

GET TO KNOW RHYS MILLEN

Three Things For Fans To Know –

I go for long walks right before the race starts.

I will always be faster on race day than during practice.

I speak quietly but walk with a heavy right foot.

Pikes Peak Heroes – Pops (aka Rod Millen), Michele Mouton and Ari Vatanen.

Favorite Track – Baja Mexico

What makes racing on Pikes Peak different from racing anywhere else? “The course design and location forces you to think entirely different from an engineering aspect. It has the formula of a dirt track, road racing and rally. If you get it right – the feeling is amazing; if you get it wrong… it’s going to be a long week.”

ABOUT THE PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL HILL CLIMB
First staged in 1916, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is the second oldest race in America. The invitation-only event, often referred to as The Race to the Clouds is held annually on the last Sunday of June on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, near Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA. The famous 12.42-mile (20 km) course consists of 156 turns, boasts an elevation gain of 4,725 feet (1,440 m), and reaches a finish line at 14,115 feet (4,302 m) above sea level. The PPIHC’s six race divisions feature a wide variety of vehicles – from production-based Time Attack challengers to purpose-built Open Wheel racers and state-of-the-art Unlimited vehicles. The current race record was set in 2018 by Romain Dumas and Volkswagen in the all-electric I.D. R Pikes Peak – 07:57.148.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, June 8, 2023

BMW TO LEAD PPIHC’S PARADE OF CHAMPIONS WITH DRIVER ROBERT STOUT

Colorado Springs, Colorado — The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo is pleased to welcome Robert Stout as the lead driver in this year’s Parade of Champions. Stout will lead the parade in a 2024 BMW M3 CS provided by the BMW Performance Center in conjunction with Winslow BMW of Colorado Springs.

“Much like previous years, we have another accomplished driver and racer, Robert Stout, who has 17 years of racing experience in Grand-Am, IMSA, and the Pirelli World Challenge, to name a few,” said Melissa Eickhoff, PPIHC Executive Director, “BMW Performance Center and Winslow BMW of Colorado Springs are loyal partners of the PPIHC and always provide an incredible car to showcase during the Parade, which is a high point of the event for our race fans.”

Each year, the Parade of Champions takes place after the final driver completes their run. The lead car brings finishers back down the mountain as fans pay tribute to those who have conquered the 14,115′ summit. BMW Performance Center and Winslow BMW of Colorado Springs regularly provide the lead vehicle for the parade, while drivers selected to lead the parade have found success in all forms of performance driving.

MEET ROBERT STOUT
Stout has been a professional driver for more than a decade, securing five racing championships. The California native has raced everything from sports cars to sprint cars, off-road trucks to UTVs, and much more, and has served as a factory driver for Scion and a driver coach for many of America’s premier driving schools and clubs. Stout’s most recent successes have come in off-road racing, as he took the 2019 Production 1000 UTV national championship in the Lucas Off-Road Racing Series. He has also captured multiple wins and Rookie of the Year honors in Stadium Super Trucks.

THE BMW M3 CS
Featuring increased engine power, a bespoke chassis setup, exclusive design features, and much more to set it apart, the M3 CS sits atop the hierarchy of BMW performance sedans. The car produces 550 horsepower from its M TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine, and can accelerate from 0-60 miles per hour in just 3.4 seconds. The M3 CS also features an 8-speed M Steptronic Sport transmission, M xDrive with Active M Differential for maximum traction, standard Adaptive M suspension and the M Drive Professional system, and optional M Carbon ceramic brakes. Find more information on the BMW M3 CS here.

Three BMWs are slated to compete in this year’s Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. James Clay will take on the event for the fifth time in the Pikes Peak Open division in a 1995 BMW M3. Former event record holder and two-time King of the Mountain, Rhys Millen, has entered the Exhibition division in a 2023 BMW M8, and two-time Parade of Champions driver, Matt Mullins, will join Millen in the same division in a 2023 BMW XM Label Red.

ABOUT BMW PERFORMANCE CENTER WEST
A permanent performance-driver training facility located in Thermal, California, near Palm Springs. The facility is open to the public and offers a wide range of driving schools for people of all ages and capabilities as well as special programs for private and corporate groups. The BMW Performance Driving Schools are taught by BMW professional driving instructors on a private course. The classes provide individuals with the opportunity to get behind the wheel of the Ultimate Driving Machine® and learn proper vision, basic car control, panic braking, handling, emergency lane changing, distracted driving, high-speed control and precision driving. Set against a backdrop of breathtaking mountain views, the facility features a luxurious modern building, up to 5.1 miles of expansive track layouts, meeting spaces, a gourmet café, gift shop and a truly unique experience for the automotive enthusiast.

ABOUT BMW: BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and Rolls-Royce Motor Car. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is the BMW Group global center of competence for BMW X models and manufactures the X3, X4, X5, X6 and X7 Sports Activity Vehicles. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 349 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 144 BMW motorcycle retailers, 112 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers.

ABOUT THE PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL HILL CLIMB
First staged in 1916, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is the second oldest race in America. The invitation-only event, often referred to as The Race to the Clouds is held annually on the last Sunday of June on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, near Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA. The famous 12.42-mile (20 km) course consists of 156 turns, boasts an elevation gain of 4,725 feet (1,440 m), and reaches a finish line at 14,115 feet (4,302 m) above sea level. The PPIHC’s six race divisions feature a wide variety of vehicles – from production-based Time Attack challengers to purpose-built Open Wheel racers and state-of-the-art Unlimited vehicles. The current race record was set in 2018 by Romain Dumas and Volkswagen in the all-electric I.D. R Pikes Peak – 07:57.148.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, June 5, 2023

JOSTENS CREATES UNSER LEGACY KING OF THE MOUNTAIN RING FOR PPIHC’S 101st RUNNING

Colorado Springs, Colorado — The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo is pleased to announce the first ever Unser Legacy King of the Mountain Ring crafted by Jostens.

The Unser family has and continues to build a legacy at PPIHC. Since the mid-1920s, the Unser’s have set out to tame the beast that is the 12.42-mile course to Pikes Peak.

Earning a total of 26 King of the Mountain crowns, the Unser family has deep roots in this race’s history with those in the racing circle often referring to Pikes Peak as Unser Mountain.

“It seemed such a natural fit for the Unser Racing Museum to collaborate with Jostens to create a wearable trophy for the annual King of the Mountain. The Unser family arrived from Switzerland and settled in Colorado City in 1895. Their three sons loved racing the dirt road to the top of the mountain on their motorcycles.  Next came the sons and grandsons of those three, and their love of and success on the mountain propelled them to legendary careers. Now we have 4th generation daughters and sons who are reaching for the clouds. It’s always been a magical place for the Unser family,” explained Susan Unser of the Unser Racing Museum.

The Unser Legacy King of the Mountain Ring is crafted in 10k Yellow Gold featuring over 1.01 carats of diamonds. The ring reads King of the Mountain Est 1916 atop and has many notable features of PPIHC on the left and right sides.

“We are super excited to partner with everyone at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb for their exciting 101st running,” says Curt Bruns of Jostens. “The King of the Mountain will now receive a champion ring following the event, just like they do for the Daytona 500, Indy 500, and many more. This will be the first-ever PPIHC championship ring, and who better to create it than Jostens, in partnership with the Unser Racing Museum, to celebrate the incredible legacy that family has left on this mountain.”

ABOUT JOSTENS: Since 1897, Jostens has been a trusted partner in the academic and achievement channel, providing products, programs and services that help its customers celebrate moments that matter. The company’s products include yearbooks, publications, jewelry and consumer goods that serve the K-12 educational, college and professional sports segments. Jostens is owned by Platinum Equity and can be found online.

ABOUT UNSER RACING MUSEUM: Opened in 2005 in honor of the Unser Dynasty, Unser Racing Museum showcases a strong family motorsports legacy The museum is currently relocating to Speedway Motors Museum of American Speed in Lincoln, Nebraska and looks forward to welcoming visitors in 2024.

ABOUT THE PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL HILL CLIMB
First staged in 1916, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is the second oldest race in America. The invitation-only event, often referred to as The Race to the Clouds is held annually on the last Sunday of June on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, near Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA. The famous 12.42-mile (20 km) course consists of 156 turns, boasts an elevation gain of 4,725 feet (1,440 m), and reaches a finish line at 14,115 feet (4,302 m) above sea level. The PPIHC’s six race divisions feature a wide variety of vehicles – from production-based Time Attack challengers to purpose-built Open Wheel racers and state-of-the-art Unlimited vehicles. The current race record was set in 2018 by Romain Dumas and Volkswagen in the all-electric I.D. R Pikes Peak – 07:57.148.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 2, 2023

HOOSIER TIRE CONTINGENCY PROGRAM ROLLS OUT FOR RACE TO THE CLOUDS

Colorado Springs, Colorado — The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo welcomes Hoosier Tire as an Official Contingency Partner in 2023.

Under a multi-year agreement, participants racing in five categories, including Open Wheel, Exhibition, Pikes Peak Open, Time Attack 1, and Unlimited, will have the opportunity to earn up to four (4) free Hoosier tires. To be eligible for the program, teams must use approved Hoosier tires and display Hoosier decals on their vehicles.

“Like the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, Hoosier has a rich history in motorsports,” shared Melissa Eickhoff, PPIHC Executive Director. “We are pleased to welcome Hoosier to the PPIHC family and offer our competitors this exciting contingency option as we move into our second century.”

Tires will be awarded to those taking part in the contingency program based on podium finishes.

Hoosier Tires are available in a wide variety of sizes and constructions to fit almost any vehicle, as well as Hill Climb specific compounding options. “Our goal is to provide unwavering support to all the brave individuals who undertake the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb challenge,” stated Marc Sanzenbacher, Hoosier’s Lead Business Development Specialist. “We look forward to expanding our support of the men and women who take on the challenge that is the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.”

TIRES DESIGNED FOR CHAMPIONS

ABOUT HOOSIER RACING TIRE
Hoosier Racing Tire, the largest race tire manufacturer in the world, has continually promoted passion, pride, and success in the racing industry since 1957. Based in Plymouth, Ind. their state-of-the-art facility, including a fully integrated technology and R&D center, is solely dedicated to engineering, designing, supporting, and manufacturing the over 1,000 different types of racing and high-performance tires currently produced. Instilled with the heritage of champions, Hoosier utilizes a model sales and distribution network to deliver winning results globally. Hoosier Racing Tire is a 100% subsidiary of Continental AG.

ABOUT THE PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL HILL CLIMB
First staged in 1916, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is the second oldest race in America. The invitation-only event, often referred to as The Race to the Clouds is held annually on the last Sunday of June on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, near Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA. The famous 12.42-mile (20 km) course consists of 156 turns, boasts an elevation gain of 4,725 feet (1,440 m), and reaches a finish line at 14,115 feet (4,302 m) above sea level. The PPIHC’s six race divisions feature a wide variety of vehicles – from production-based Time Attack challengers to purpose-built Open Wheel racers and state-of-the-art Unlimited vehicles. The current race record was set in 2018 by Romain Dumas and Volkswagen in the all-electric I.D. R Pikes Peak – 07:57.148.

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