Race News Archives - Page 14 of 32 - Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, May 18, 2023

BEHIND THE WHEEL

DAN NOVEMBRE PROVES THERE IS A WOLF IN COLORADO

WOLF GB08S TC SPECIAL ENTERED IN 2023 RACE TO THE CLOUDS

Photo: Larry Chen

Colorado Springs, CO – The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, is moving into a new century of racing on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain. In June, a field of 70 competitors will be on the grid to challenge the 12.42 mile course. Dan November of Colorado Springs will be among them when he returns for his 15th attempt at the 14,115′ summit behind the wheel of his 2013 Wolf GB08S TC Special to compete in the Unlimited division.

While legislation surrounding wild wolves in Colorado recently made headlines, Novembre’s Wolf is a different breed altogether as he explains, “For the 101st running, I am returning with my 2013 Wolf GB08S Unlimited Prototype. We’ve been able to make a few improvements over the winter with new gear ratios optimized for the tight switchbacks on Pikes Peak, several aero changes that will increase downforce and car stability, plus we shaved off almost 100 pounds from the car to make it light and fast. We hope to see even faster speeds than last year and will be gunning for a low 9-minute run with the potential to set a new record for a naturally aspirated gas-powered car.”

Dan Novembre will join Robin Shute, three-time King of the Mountain, as they unleash their Wolf “beasts” in this year’s Race to the Clouds.

In 2016 Novembre switched to a new open wheeler better suited for the asphalt surface on the mountain. He laid down his best time in 2020 with a sub-10 minute run of 09:50.329. He has had four podium finishes, and was a member of the Fast 15 qualifiers in 2021 and 2022.

Over the course of his 14-year career, he has never failed to cross the finish line. Three times he was forced to run a weather-shortened course.

Novembre races in Colorado Hill Climb events throughout Colorado, has raced at the Clifton Hill Climb in Arizona, and won the Mt. Washington Open Class in 2017, setting a rear wheel drive record.

Photo by Larry Chen Photo – Louis Yio

Get to Know Dan Novembre:

Favorite Section of the Course – “My absolute favorite is Blue Sky through 11 Mile Water Station. There is a double apex left turn that has a blind entry and if you hit it just right, you fly through like a carousel at maximum G’s!”

When You’re Not Racing – “I work as a Program Manager at L3Harris, a defense contractor. My degree is in Mechanical Engineering and I work on projects that defend our nation from missile launches.”

Why #28 – “I was always a big Formula 1 fan and rooted for Ferrari. For years, they ran #27 and #28. Running the #28 is an homage to where my love of racing started.”

Pikes Peak Heroes – “Paul Dallenbach and Gary Lee Kanawyer”

Fun Facts –

#1: “The first year I raced, 2009, I also ran the Pikes Peak Ascent Half Marathon Race to the summit on Barr Trail. It took over 3 and a half hours! Much slower than the 14:08 time from my rookie year! It was an easy switch to stay racing in a car!”
#2: “I started a tradition several years ago with having fans sign the front wing of my car. If you ask me for an autograph, it is pretty likely I will ask you to return the favor and sign my car! At the end of Fan Fest, the front of the car is usually plastered with all types of signatures!”
#3: “I started nicknaming my car with my wife’s and kid’s initials. It started in 2010 when I had two kids and you can see the growth in my family as I kept adding initials ending up with the KMHRAL special. Yep, five wonderful kids. If you ever see a +1 at the end of the car name, you will know we are expecting!”

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
Wednesday, May 17, 2023

PIKES PEAK GT4 TROPHY BY YOKOHAMA TO DEBUT AT 2024 PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL HILL CLIMB

Larry Chen Photo – Jason Zindroski

Colorado Springs, Colorado — The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC) is pleased to announce the creation of the Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy by Yokohama, to debut with the 102nd Running of the Race to the Clouds in 2024. The division represents a new direction for the event, adding one of sports car racing’s most prominent modern categories to what is already one of the most diverse entry lists of any race in the world.

“The GT4 racing platform is a big part of today’s racing world, and we’re excited to be a part of it,” shared Melissa Eickhoff, PPIHC Executive Director. “The Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy by Yokohama broadens our existing efforts to a wider range of entries for future editions of the PPIHC, and we expect it to attract plenty of first-time Hill Climb racers to the mountain in the coming years.”

The Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy by Yokohama will replace the Porsche Pikes Peak Trophy by Yokohama division after the 2023 running. The new division will be run in partnership with SRO, with the intent of opening the event up to more competitors and manufacturers. Like the current spec Porsche Pikes Peak Trophy by Yokohama division, which features the Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport, all entries will run on the Yokohama ADVAN A052 tire.

“The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is an iconic event in motorsports and Yokohama is thrilled to carry on our longstanding partnership with PPIHC as the exclusive tire of the new Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy by Yokohama class,” said Tricia Wall, Yokohama Tire motorsports manager. “With its excellent performance and wide range of fitments, the Yokohama ADVAN A052 is the perfect tire for a GT4 class.”

More information on the Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy by Yokohama division for 2024 will be released in the coming months.

The 101^st Running of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb brought to you by Gran Turismo will take place on Sunday, June 25. For more information on this year’s event and to purchase tickets, visit www.ppihc.org .

ABOUT YOKOHAMA TIRE CORPORATION

Yokohama Tire Corporation is the North American manufacturing and marketing arm of Tokyo, Japan-based The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., a global manufacturing and sales company of premium tires since 1917. Servicing an extensive sales network throughout the U.S., Yokohama Tire Corporation is a leader in technology and innovation. The company’s complete product line includes tires for high-performance, light truck, passenger car, and commercial truck and bus. For more information on Yokohama’s broad product line, visit www.yokohamatire.com and www.yokohamatruck.com.

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

COLORADO SPRINGS POWERSPORTS ANNOUNCES GRAND OPENING

PARTNERS WITH PPIHC AS FAN FEST FMX SHOW SPONSOR

Colorado Springs, CO – The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo congratulates Colorado Springs Powersports on their showroom grand opening at 745 Motor City Drive in Colorado Springs on May 13.

“We are passionately committed to creating long-term authentic relationships through experiences, integrity, fun and enthusiasm,” shared Joe Brenner, General Manager. “Colorado Springs Powersports is a natural fit to sponsor the FMX show at Fan Fest on June 23.”

Fan Fest, a 10-block pre-race street festival held in downtown Colorado Springs to promote the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is one of the highlights of summer in the Pikes Peak Region. “The Colorado outdoor lifestyle draws so many visitors to this area,” explained Melissa Eickhoff, PPIHC Executive Director, “and the excitement of Fan Fest is certainly a hub for locals, tourists and our military service members. We appreciate the partnership with Colorado Springs Powersports and the support they are providing for this free community event.”

ABOUT COLORADO SPRINGS POWERSPORTS:
As an authorized dealer for BMW Motorrad, Ducati, Triumph, Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Vespa, Piaggio, Stark, GASGAS and SpeedUTV, Colorado Springs Powersports is passionate about these brands. We offer new and pre-owned motorcycle and off-road vehicle sales, riding accessories and apparel. A friendly, approachable staff of riding enthusiasts with a customer focus complete the buyer experience.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, May 11, 2023

BEHIND THE WHEEL

TANNER FOUST AND RADFORD PREPARE TO RACE TO THE CLOUDS

Colorado Springs, CO – On Sunday, June 25, The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, will mark the 101st Running of the Race to the Clouds. Superstar driver Tanner Foust returns to Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain moving from the spec-Porsche group to the Exhibition division in a purpose-built Radford, an Ant Anstead/Jenson Button collaboration.

Photo by Larry Chen Photo – Louis Yio

Foust ‘s history on Pikes Peak was successful from the beginning. His 2002 Open Wheel entry, a 1982 Wells Coyote, powered him to a podium finish, third place, with his fastest time to date – 12:01.40. Returning in 2004, Foust, and teammate Scott Crouch, competed in the SCCA-sanctioned Rally Group X class, a multi-day, multi-stage event. In 2005 the team entered the Rally Production GT class earning Pastrana and Crouch their first win on the mountain. In 2021 Foust entered as part of the spec-Porsche division capturing his spot in the Fast 15 as one of the top qualifiers, and claiming his second division win.

Asked what makes racing on Pikes Peak different than racing anywhere else, Foust thoughtfully replied, “It’s a unique honor but an even more unique experience. Driving past Santa’s Workshop at 4:30am on the first test day will clue you in to the fact that this isn’t your normal race weekend. Watching the sunrise from Devils Playground, sometimes from above the clouds, is just plain peaceful. And then that peace is completely contrasted by the strange pressure felt on the starting line knowing that all this work – flying race cars and parts in from around the world, teams and crews taking weeks or months of their lives to engineer and create this moment…and it all comes down to one single 10-minute run.”

Photo by Larry Chen Photo – Leif Bergerson

All competitors were forced to run a weather-shortened course in 2021, finishing at the 16 mile marker. Foust took the top spot in the one-make Porsche division with Cam Ingram in second and Kathryn Mead finishing third.

In June, Foust will look to the summit from behind the wheel of a 2023 Radford Type 62-2 to compete in the Exhibition division and shared, “I’ve witnessed the growth and development of the current Radford road car and had the pleasure of working on some track day development sessions for the road-going version with Jenson Button. I was happy to oblige when they asked if I would step in to drive this one-off creation up Pikes Peak. This is my first opportunity to drive something really fast up this great road. The Wells Coyote I drove in ‘02 had a similar power to weight ratio, but that was back in the dirt days. I’m excited to feel some real speed up the mountain and have a chance to drive this Radford.”

Photo by Radford Motors

Get to Know Tanner Foust:

A stunt driver for films such as The Fast and the Furious Tokyo Drift, Ford vs Ferrari, Need For Speed and The Dukes of Hazzard, Foust has also set multiple world records with Hot Wheels and Top Gear. He was a prominent competitor in the Formula Drift series, winning the 2007 and 2008 championships, the first back-to-back champion. He is also the most decorated driver in X Games history with nine medals.

Favorite Section: “With the Porsche in ‘2021 I really learned to appreciate the lower section of the road with its almost hypnotic flow and smooth surface. I know a well balanced, high grip car can be a pleasure on that section so I’m hoping to find balance and some grip with the Radford!”

Favorite Track: “I’ve always been a fan of Sonoma Raceway. There are hardly any straightaways, like Pikes Peak, and it’s a beautiful place to be.

My favorite rallycross track Is Holjus, Sweden. It was one of my first wins in Europe and was probably the most memorable.”

Colorado Fun Facts:

“One of my first jobs in racing was selling sponsorship for Pikes Peak International Raceway south of Colorado Springs (was also a very bad race mechanic in Denver). I got that job to figure out how to raise money for racing back in 1997.”

“I went to school at CU Boulder and graduated with a biology degree, planning to attend medical school. That plan changed after earning a “rookie scholarship” from an SCCA club team owner Jim Christian in a spec Ford racer.”

“During the summer of ‘93 I had a job parking and detailing cars at a car dealership in Boulder, Colorado (I sold some cars too). A few years later my boss at the dealership became my first racing sponsor and rally co-driver, Scott Crouch. He still runs a Subie up the mountain!”

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

PPIHC WELCOMES FLY COS AS OFFICIAL AIRPORT PARTNER

Colorado Springs, CO – We are pleased to announce a 2023 partnership with Fly COS, the Colorado Springs Airport – now The Official Airport of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Billed as Colorado’s small airport, COS offers six carriers – American, Avelo, Delta, Southwest, Sun Country and United with daily nonstop flights and hundreds of connecting options, ideal for those traveling to the area for the iconic Race to the Clouds. “As the gateway to the Pikes Peak Region, the Colorado Springs Airport is thrilled to welcome Pikes Peak International Hill Climb participants and race fans alike to the greatest automotive race in America,” said Greg Phillips, Director of Aviation.

The race was first staged in 1916, the vision of Colorado Springs businessman and philanthropist, Spencer Penrose. “The Hill Climb works hard to take cues from the Penrose legacy of promoting tourism in the Pikes Peak Region,” shared Melissa Eickhoff, PPIHC Executive Director. “Directly, people from around the world travel to Colorado Springs to experience the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. And through the millions we reach with publicity and our race day livestream, we find ways to feature the beauty, adventure, and history of the region. Partnering with the Colorado Springs Airport is a natural fit. Not only is it convenient, but the Pikes Peak views from the concourse beckon travelers to experience America’s Mountain.”

The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, will be held on Sunday, June 25 with race-themed events taking place throughout the week in Colorado Springs and on Pikes Peak.

EXCLUSIVE PPIHC VIP TRAVEL PACKAGES OFFERED

3 OR 4-DAY EVENT MOTORSPORTS EXPERIENCE

The PPIHC has partnered with Sports & Entertainment Travel to offer an upscale race week experience including luxury accommodations at The Broadmoor, along with lots of behind the scenes action. Cap it off with a trip up the Cog Railway to see the checkered flag wave! Whether you’re driving to Colorado Springs or arriving via FlyCOS, the Official Airport of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, VIP treatment is guaranteed.

Book your Travel Package HERE by May 30

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, May 4, 2023

BEHIND THE WHEEL

COLORADO SPRINGS RACER GEORGE HESS III AND HIS DRIVE TO GIVE BACK

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, George Hess, III will be back behind the wheel in his 2020 Porsche GT4 Clubsport in the Porsche Pikes Peak Trophy by Yokohama division.

Photo by Larry Chen Photo – Luis Garcia

Hess first challenged the 12.42-mile course in 1976 in the 250cc Sportsman Motorcycle division finishing sixth on his Can-Am 250. He eventually returned to racing on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain in 2018, this time on four wheels when he entered the Time Attack 1 division. He was back in 2019, in the spec Porsche division but his late-day starting time relegated him to running a weather-shortened course.

Photo by Larry Chen Photo – Luis Garcia

In 2020 Hess ran his fastest time, and claimed a second place division finish with a time of 11:06.789 in the same Porsche-based division. Blake “Bilko” Williams finished first, while Kathryn Mead, 2020 Rookie of the Year, took third.

Hess was similarly disappointed in 2022 when a flat tire during his race day run took him out of the competition.

Preparing for another run at the summit in 2023, Hess is back in his #744.

With his unique approach to sponsorship, Hess draws phenomenal support for his racing effort. A self-funded driver, all sponsorship monies raised are directed to charities through HBA Cares,a non-profit arm of the Homebuilders Association. “All the names on this car did not sponsor me, but instead made a contribution to HBA Cares, with the bulk of the money directed to the Ingram Guest House at St. Francis Hospital,” shared Hess. “More than $100,000 in donations to date have been collected through race sponsorship.”

Photo by: Larry Chen Photo – Louis Yio

Asked who helped him get here this year, Hess is quick to reply, “Fred Veitch, Roger Lovell, Travis Smith, Jerry Novak, Ted Thurber, Josh Peterson, Matt Scheffe, Mike Finkbiner and, of course, my wife, Barbie Hess. I am really blessed to be able to do this and have friends, family and an industry that supports what we do the way they do.”

Hess also shared his thoughts on what makes racing at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb different than racing anywhere else, “Where else could George Hess be pitted next to Romain Dumas?”

Photo by Larry Chen

Get to Know George Hess III:

Pikes Peak Heroes – The local racers like David Donner, Fred Veitch and many others who encouraged me to participate.

Favorite corner – Gotta be George’s Corner!

Most challenging section – The top. There are four blind lefts that are fast. It’s so fast up there and the road changes from day to day.

Favorite Track: COTA – Circuit of the Americas

Fun Facts:

They say I’m the oldest driver this year!

A while back, a friend and I won the team roping at the El Paso County Fair.

My goals for 2023 – Be competitive, be safe and have a doughnut at the top!

I call my car “Dorothy” after my mother.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, April 27, 2023

BEHIND THE WHEEL

FAN FAVORITE “FASTEST PASTOR” DON WICKSTRUM RETURNS FOR 2023 RACE TO THE CLOUDS

Colorado Springs, CO – Seventy drivers from around the world and across the US will converge in the Colorado mountains for the 101st Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, on June 25. Among the field is Pikes Peak veteran, Don Wickstrum also known as Fastest Pastor.

When Don Wickstrum arrived at Pikes Peak in 2019, the first year he attempted to tackle the mountain, he could not have dreamed what was in store or where the 12.42 mile course would lead. He started as a competitor, but his role at the Race to the Clouds has grown in so many ways. Connecting early on with PPIHC chaplain, Layne Schranz, Wickstrum and Schranz shared a common bond through deep faith. Few drivers maintain the enthusiasm throughout race week demonstrated by Fastest Pastor. A talented driver turned mentor, Wickstrum has become a friend and confidante to many, both on the track and at Fan Fest. While his love of motorsports, especially on Pikes Peak, is evident, his passion for life and his faith guide him. Wickstrum has become a true ambassador for the PPIHC, sharing the story of his life, his cancer battle and his Pikes Peak dream in a 2022 documentary film.

In 2022, Layne Schranz made his final run on Pikes Peak following a stellar 30-year racing career. He handed over the honorary role of PPIHC chaplain to Don Wickstrum before the race.

Both drivers are pictured at the 14,115 ‘ summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain after crossing the finish line in 2022.

Popular with drivers and fans alike, Wickstrum shared, “The fans here at PPIHC are like no other, they truly make a nobody like me feel like a rockstar! They have been here for years with us. They’ve laughed, cried, and celebrated with us. They have been with me since day one through both crashes, our first finish, and finally a summit, all while I battled cancer. The PPIHC fans are the best, but honestly they aren’t just fans, they are family.”

Wickstrum also described what he enjoys most about racing on Pikes Peak, “I love my PPIHC Fans and Fan Fest! Fan Fest is like the pre-game party to the race and is a huge focal point for us as we absolutely love the personal setting we have to meet the fans. Over the years we have really built a reputation for having a fun booth – but there’s more to it than just getting a photo or an autograph. We want to talk to you, encourage you, cheer for you, and pray for you. This world is so filled with hate, discontentment, and trials, and we try to bring a bit of hope. We want to let people know they matter, they have purpose, they are more than their circumstances and past, that they have a story that can be used to encourage others, and that they are loved by Christ. I have had so many encounters with people who have touched me deeply, and to see them come in and leave changed is totally worth it. We want everyone to step into our booth knowing they matter. What an energy-filled night so full of amazement!”

While every team knows the importance of sponsors in any racing series. Wickstrum shared the roles his sponsors play in his Pikes Peak effort. “I am so blessed to have the sponsors I have had over the years. I can honestly say I don’t see this happening without them. It’s not the financial aspect some bring but even more importantly, their investment in me as a person, as a ministry partner, as a racer, and as a friend. They come out here with us, they share the experience, but they also offer up support any way possible. I have developed lifelong friendships with our partners. It has been so rewarding and humbling.” Photo by Larry Chen Photo: Louis Yio

Wickstrum’s first two attempts on Pikes Peak didn’t work out as he had hoped. Crashes during early morning practices forced him to withdraw from the event in 2019 and 2020. Undeterred, Wickstrum was back behind the wheel in a new Pikes Peak racer – a 2016 Riley LMP3 sporting #25 in 2021. “I first flew #25 as a rookie – the very first time I ever raced in my life. I picked it because it was my twin’s favorite number and she didn’t think I would do very well, so I thought if I used her favorite number at least she couldn’t cheer against me. That number started it all.”

With a turnaround in luck, 2021 and 2022 saw Wickstrum among the Fast 15 qualifiers and poised to make it to the summit. However, race day weather on Pikes Peak was dismal in 2021 and 2022, shortening the course in 2021 for all competitors, and blanketing itself with fog in 2022. Despite the gloomy weather, spirits were undampened in the Wickstrum pit.

Arriving at the summit of Pikes Peak America’s Mountain in 2022 after four long years of effort and dedication was an awe inspiring moment clocking a 12:09.972 in the Unlimited division. He had finally reached the summit.

Wickstrum’s wife, Mary, chose a name for the car before Don brought it to Pikes Peak, “Gianna”, meaning ‘the Lord is merciful’ in Italian. Wickstrum pointed out what’s new for Gianna in 2023, “A lot! We’ve worked hard on CFD with our crew and Ryan from Zebulon to improve some aero for the mountain. Our guys went hard after geometry improvements to the front end suspension. Shane Tecklenburg from ST Consulting is back with us again and so is Kevin from KSV. We have done quite a bit of testing compared to past years, and we are very pleased with the way things are progressing. We still have a list of improvements we hope to get done, and we will.” Photo by: Larry Chen Photo – Charles Naboy

Get to Know Don Wickstrum:

Pikes Peak Heroes – Bobby Unser, Jeff Zwart, Rod and Rhys Millen, Layne Schranz, Randy Ruyle, and Cam Ingram

Favorite part of the course – The Ws

Most challenging section – Above Boulder Park

Fun Facts:

“I bought my first car at age 10 ½ and rebuilt my first engine shortly after.”

“I have been married for over 20 years and have 5 kids with my amazing wife.”

Wickstrum was the subject of a documentary film in 2022 by I Am Second titled Chasing Hope featuring his Pikes Peak story, his cancer diagnosis, and how his faith sustained him.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, April 20, 2023

BEHIND THE WHEEL

SCOTT BIRDSALL READY TO EMBRACE THE MOUNTAIN AND DEFEND DIESEL RECORD IN 2023 PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL HILL CLIMB

Colorado Springs, CO – On June 25 drivers from twelve countries will line up to challenge the 14,115′ summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain over a 12.42 mile course. Among them, it will be hard to miss diesel-diehard, Scott Birdsall. Making his fourth appearance, Birdsall is gearing up for the 101st Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo in June.

Birdsall first entered the Race to the Clouds in 2019 in his highly anticipated diesel-powered 1949 Ford F1 nicknamed “Old Smokey.” However, a weather-shortened course didn’t allow him to an opportunity to reach the summit. His return in 2020 saw Birdsall on the podium when he captured 3rd place in the Exhibition division and clinched the Diesel Fuel Record in 11:24.065.The previous record was held by Germany’s Uwe Nittel when he made his record setting run of 11:37.149 in 2015 in the Exhibition division driving a 2016 Mercedes Benz C300 d 4 MATIC.

Forced to withdraw due to mechanical issues in 2021, Birdsall returned in 2022 behind the wheel of the 2022 CG/Superlight LMP-1 hoping to defend or improve his diesel fuel record. Unfortunately, the mountain decided no records would be set and shrouded itself in heavy fog all day. Birdsall finished 13th in the Exhibition division. “Even though our result wasn’t nearly what we wanted, we learned a ton about what worked on the car, and what didn’t,” said Birdsall. “The weather on Pikes Peak is wild. You can encounter several weather systems on a run. I try to test in different types of weather, but with this LMP-1 car, there are only 2 setups we use on the mountain. First is our dry setup which is a full power tune, sticky Toyo prototype slicks, and a fairly stiff suspension. Second, is our intermediate/wet setup that uses a mild tune, Toyo rain tires, and softer suspension settings.”

Old Smokey also returned in 2022 with veteran driver and TV personality Aaron Kaufman putting it through its paces. Kaufman finished in 12th just edging Birdsall.

For drivers and their sponsors, Fan Fest, a 10-block race-themed street festival in downtown Colorado Springs, is one of the highlights of race week. “Hill Climb fans on and off the mountain are amazing. Next to the race, Fan Fest is my favorite part of race week. It’s awesome to get to see how important the race is to the fans and really sets this race apart from anything else,” shared Birdsall.

Asked about the importance of sponsorship in his Pikes Peak effort, Birdsall said, “Sponsors are a really big deal for me. I am lucky enough to work with some of the best companies in the racing and automotive space. Partners like Amsoil, Toyo Tires, DDP, S&S, and Fleece not only provide financial support and world class components, but give me some of the best race and tech support I could ask for.”

With one year under his belt in the LMP1, Birdsall revealed some of the car’s new features for 2023, “This year, we gave up the compound Garrett turbo setup in favor of a single Garrett paired with a Roots-type supercharger to relieve the car of some drive pressure and turbo lag. We have changed suspension, added chassis rigidity, and increased cooling capacity. There’s some other voodoo as well, but we’ll show those cards during race week.”

Get to Know Scott Birdsall:

Three fun facts:

I love chocolate.
I hate spiders.
I feel most alive on the mountain.

Favorite corner:

That’s a tough one. Either Elk Park, or coming into Picnic Grounds

How many Pikes Peak summit donuts do you typically eat during Race Week?

“Summit house donuts are a rite of passage! I don’t eat any during the week, but I definitely indulge in a few on race day, and I buy a bunch to bring down to the team after the Parade of Champions.”

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, April 13, 2023

BEHIND THE WHEEL

MATUS HUSKA RETURNS TO PIKES PEAK IN AUDI ENTRY HOPING FOR REDEMPTION IN 2023 RACE TO THE CLOUDS

Colorado Springs, CO – On June 25 seventy drivers will be on the grid for the 101st Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo. Matus Huska, currently a Wheat Ridge, Colorado resident, but raised in Slovakia, will represent his home country in this year’s Race to the Clouds.

Huska challenged Pikes Peak for the first time in 2022 in the Time Attack 1 division in his 2010 Audi TTs. He is back on the mountain this year in the Audi, but has moved from Time Attack 1 to the Pikes Peak Open division.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, April 6, 2023

BEHIND THE WHEEL

CANADA’S GILLES NADEAU RETURNS FOR

2023 PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL HILL CLIMB

Colorado Springs, CO – On June 25 seventy drivers will be on the grid for the 101st Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo. Ten competitors will travel from countries outside the USA to tackle the 12.42 mile course.

Gilles Nadeau of Knowlton, Quebec City, Canada returns for his second year on the mountain after a successful rookie year in 2022 in the Pikes Peak Porsche Trophy by Yokohama division. “Last year my goal was to finish the race, period. Finishing 3rd in my division was something I did not expect.” He clocked a time of 13:03.389 behind Cam Ingram who won the division and Loni Unser in second place.

Aiming to finish in the top three once again, Nadeau will be back on the mountain in his 2020 Porsche GT4 Clubsport. “Since I left Colorado last June I’ve been thinking about the race almost every day,” he shared. “Now I understand why so many drivers keep coming back to Pikes Peak. There is no other race like this one.”

Get to Know Gilles Nadeau:

“I didn’t start racing until I was 48 years old. It’s never too late to do something wild and crazy.”
What makes Pikes Peak different than racing anywhere else – “It’s probably the only race where you never use your mirror!”
Favorite Section – “Between Cove Creek and Elk Park”
Most Challenging Section – “Right after Devils Playground”
Favorite Track – Sebring
Pikes Peak Hero – Jeff Zwart

Any good luck charms – “Last year the day before the race I drove my truck up the road and came face to face with a bighorn sheep! Being an Aries, I felt this bighorn was wishing me good luck!”

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