Category: Race News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Thursday, June 9, 2022

Alcon Brakes to Present $10,000 Award in 2022

2021 Award-Winner David Hackl returns in Audi Quattro

Colorado Springs, CO – The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo is pleased to announce the return of the Alcon Brakes No Holding Back award. A $10,000 Alcon product voucher will be presented to the driver who has demonstrated outstanding perseverance and determination in their race to the 14,115’ summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain.

“We are thrilled to welcome Alcon back to Pikes Peak this year,” stated Bob Bodor, Executive Director of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. “The concept behind this award, No Holding Back, is especially meaningful as we stage the milestone 100th Running and every competitor is putting it all on the line as they navigate 156 turns on their way the checkered flag.”

David Hackl, inaugural winner shared, “In 2021 we were the recipient of the Alcon Brakes No Holding Back award. It was a complete surprise and incredibly moving to receive this nomination from Alcon and the whole Pikes Peak family. Winning this award reinforced our steadfast dedication to running our historic Audi Quattro in this prestigious race and gave us the opportunity to set more aggressive goals for success in 2022 including being the fastest Audi ever. We are ecstatic to have Alcon Brakes on board at every turn up the hill. The team at Alcon Brakes worked tirelessly to make this one-off custom package for our special car, and the control and confidence these brakes provide will no doubt be a game changer for us in the 2022 Race to the Clouds.” Hackl will compete for the 9th time this year in his #2 1983 Audi Quattro. His best time was recorded in 2020 when he finished in sixth place in 11:10.177.

“It is a huge privilege for Alcon to be involved with the 100th Running of the iconic Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, both as a supplier to competitors and as an award partner,” shared Jonathan Edwards, Group Sales Director, Alcon Brakes. “The event, steeped in history, is one that we hold very dear to our hearts. We can’t wait for race day and look forward with great pride to awarding the No Holding Back prize to a most worthy competitor.”

ABOUT ALCON

Alcon designs, develops, and manufactures ultra-high quality brake systems for automotive and special vehicle customers across the globe. Headquartered in the UK, Alcon has enjoyed tremendous success in the USA for more than 3 decades – starting with supplying brakes to IndyCar constructors in the mid-1980s and quickly expanding to become a leading supplier to top level race teams in IMSA, Trans-Am and NASCAR. Alcon USA was established in 1994; since then, the markets we serve has expanded in motorsports and beyond including performance aftermarket, off-road, defense, and security vehicles.

In 2017 North Carolina based Pro-System Brakes became part of the Alcon group bringing a highly experienced and dedicated team as well as US based quick-response manufacturing capability and unique in-house brake dyno testing and bedding services.

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 automobile categories feature a wide variety of vehicles representing multiple forms of motorsport; everything from production-based Time Attack challengers to purpose-built Open Wheel racers and state-of-the-art Unlimited vehicles take on America’s Mountain pursuing victory. The 100th Running of this iconic motorsport event will take place on June 26, 2022.

Contact:
Lisa Haight
Event Coordinator / Media / Historian
lisa@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400

Six Division Winners to Receive Exclusive Timepieces
BRM Chronographes to Sponsor Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Ceremony
$100,000 Purse Announced

Colorado Springs, CO – The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo is pleased to welcome B.R.M. Chronographes back to Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain to present the exclusive Official Watch to each division winner. 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 the custom timepiece, valued at $5,500.

“One of the best trophies a race winner can receive is an exclusive watch that commemorates that event,” shared Fred Veitch, Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Board Chairman, continuing, “and our partnership with B.R.M. allows us to offer each division winner something truly unique. We’re so appreciative of their effort to create memorable awards for our winners and our Hall of Fame inductees. The 100th Running celebration provides us with an opportunity to do something special for our competitors. In addition to our $100,000 purse, it is a pleasure to present these exclusive timepieces.”

Eight inductees to the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Museum Hall of Fame will receive their custom clocks at a special reception on June 23. Division winners will receive the commemorative watches at the 2022 PPIHC Awards Ceremony, presented by B.R.M. Chronographes, on Monday, June 27.

“We started our involvement with the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in 2013 and view it as a great privilege to come back for the 100 Running,” explained Frederic Gasser, partner with B.R.M America’s. “This is the ultimate racing experience and our message to the drivers – beat the hill, beat the clock and get a BRM.”

Fans will have the opportunity to see the watch designed for the competitors on display at Fan Fest in downtown Colorado Springs on Friday, June 24 from 5 to 9 pm at the B.R.M. exhibit area. Race fans, teams and timepiece collectors may order a similarly-designed 100th Running commemorative piece, or a custom piece from B.R.M

ABOUT B.R.M. CHRONOGRAPHES:

B.R.M watches are designed with bold aesthetics and complex mechanisms to deliver a striking piece. B.R.M watches are handcrafted using exclusive watchmaking techniques that are not replicated anywhere else. You can expect fine craftsmanship and unique qualities in every B.R.M watch collection.

B.R.M came into existence in 2003 after founder Bernard Richards finished his 2-year long experiments to launch the first-ever B.R.M, the GP44. Bernard was educated by the famous Paris School of Watchmaking and National Institute of Gemology of Paris, in the 1970s. Hailing from a family of Jewelers, he began by designing his own lighters, pens and clocks. The eye for uncompromising detail and refined luxury was always there in him. He climbed the ladder by creating Bernard Richards, a company named after him that would initially serve as a luxury tool machining setup in 1986. A decade later, the company employed CNC machines used for crafting precision items. In 2003, B.R.M was incepted as a brand that would shine through as a forebearer of ultra-detailed watches and Bernard’s years of experience as a true craftsman.

For B.R.M. Contact:

Frédéric Gasser
fgasser@brm-manufacture.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 automobile categories feature a wide variety of vehicles representing multiple forms of motorsport; everything from production-based Time Attack challengers to purpose-built Open Wheel racers and state-of-the-art Unlimited vehicles take on America’s Mountain pursuing victory. The 100th Running of this iconic motorsport event will take place on June 26, 2022.

For PPIHC Contact:
Lisa Haight
Event Coordinator / Media / Historian
lisa@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
DATE: Tuesday, June 7, 2022

 

The PPIHC Bergmeister Award in 2022

Rewarding the Fastest Porsche on the Mountain

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO — The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, is pleased to announce a competitor award for 2022. The PPIHC Bergmeister Award, presented by Fred Veitch and Porsche of Colorado Springs, will be presented to the driver of the overall fastest Porsche, regardless of division. On June 26, seventeen racecars sporting the iconic Porsche badge will vie for the award.

A uniquely-styled commemorative trophy will be presented to the recipient, along with a $1,000 donation to the charity of their choice, at the 2022 Awards Ceremony on Monday, June 27, 2022.

About the PPIHC Bergmeister Trophy: 

Porsche has a long and storied history of hill climbing competition around the world and on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain.  Fred Veitch, Chairman of the Board, former Pikes Peak International Hill Climb competitor and Porsche aficionado, has partnered with Porsche of Colorado Springs, known for hosting Porsche race teams and providing team support, to create this award honoring the fastest driver sporting the iconic Porsche crest.  “Bergmeister” comes from the German word “Berg” meaning mountain, and “Meister” or Master.

A Brief History of Porsche Racing on Pikes Peak:  

Porsche made a competitive debut on Pikes Peak in 1958 when Bill Paine entered a Porsche 356A.  Bob Donner, Jr., followed with his Porsche entries in the Group 2 Sports Car classes from 1959 through 1962, notching wins in three of those four years. In 1971 Porsche 914 engines became the go-to power source in the lightweight dune buggies.  Rick Mears, a future 4-time Indy 500 winner, captured a division win in a Porsche-powered buggy in 1976. Bruce Canepa arrived at Pikes Peak in 1979 in the new Newman-Draeger race car, powered by a Porsche 911 engine.

Few Porsche entries attempted the popular Rally class in the 1980s. By the mid-1990s, Jeff Zwart made his mark on Pikes Peak in a Porsche and never looked back.  Zwart was inducted in the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Museum Hall of Fame in 2018 in honor of his accomplishments behind the wheel as a multi division winner, along with his roles as a photographer, filmmaker and driving coach.  David Donner and Romain Dumas in Porsche GT3Rs, found great success on Pikes Peak with division wins during the 2010s.  A one-make Porsche division was introduced in 2018 with fan favorite Travis Pastrana taking home first place.

As the 2020s began Raphael Astier competing in a GT3 Cup Turbo set a Time Attack record in 2019.  The one-make Porsche division continued and in 2020 Kathryn Mead was awarded third place and Rookie of the Year honors in a Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport.

The award for the fastest Porsche in 2021 was piloted by overall record holder, Romain Dumas behind the wheel of the #38 Champion Porsche.  Dumas won the Time Attack 1 division in a 2019 Porsche 911 GT2RS Clubsport.

Photo Credit:
Larry Chen Photo, Scott Paine, Louis Yio

Contact:
Lisa Haight, Event Coordinator / Historian / Media
Pikes Peak International Hill Climb
(719) 685-4400
lisa@ppihc.org
www.ppihc.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Thursday, June 2, 2022

· History Presentation by Don Sanborn
Manitou Springs Heritage Center and Museum

· Outdoor Concert and Race Car Display
Music on the Mesa at Gold Hill Mesa

Colorado Springs, CO – It’s time to gear up for the 100th Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo. Back-to-back free events on Saturday, June 11 will welcome race fans, history lovers and concert goers.

First, take a look back at the Road to 100, the early days of the race, famous racers, how the course has changed and more.  Start your day at the Manitou Springs Heritage Center and move to the concert venue in the afternoon. Grab lunch in Manitou Springs or at one of many food trucks at Gold Hill Mesa.

Saturday, June 11 – 10:00am

“A History of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb”
Manitou Springs Heritage Center and Museum
517 Manitou Avenue in Manitou Springs

The Manitou Springs Heritage Center and Museum welcomes Pikes Peak Hill Climb historian and former competitor Don Sanborn for his presentation, “The 100th Running of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb”. Join us for an interesting look at the history of the Race to the Clouds. The Unser photo collection by photographer Bob Jackson will also be on display.

Don Sanborn is the current President of the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Historical Association and a member of the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Museum Committee. He is also a part of the broadcast team calling the action on race day with KRDO NewsRadio.

Don earned Rookie of the Year honors in 2000 on Pikes Peak. His father, Frank, along with Frank’s twin brother, Nick, both raced on this iconic mountain.

For more information, call 719-685-1454, email: ManitouHeritage@gmail.com, or visit www.manitouspringsheritagecenter.org.

Open Thursday-Sunday Noon-4:00pm or by appointment

Admission is free

Saturday, June 11

2:00 pm to 7:00 pm

After a look at the history, see some of the 2022 Race to the Clouds competitors and their awesome machines in person – a great time to get a photo or an autograph.

Now, it’s time to kick off your shoes, sit back and enjoy two great bands at Music on the Mesa as we prepare to celebrate the 100th Running of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb on June 26.

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 automobile categories feature a wide variety of vehicles representing multiple forms of motorsport; everything from production-based Time Attack challengers to purpose-built Open Wheel racers and state-of-the-art Unlimited vehicles take on America’s Mountain pursuing victory. The 100th Running of this iconic motorsport event will take place on June 26, 2022.

Contact:
Lisa Haight
Event Coordinator / Media / Historian
lisa@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400

Colorado Springs, CO – The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, is pleased to announce the driver of the pace car for the milestone 100th Running of the Race to the Clouds, Valkyrie Racing’s Renèe Brinkerhoff.

“We’re so pleased to welcome Renèe and Valkyrie Racing to Pikes Peak. She has a proven ability to take her racing to the next level which makes her an ideal fit to put behind the wheel for the epic 100th Running,” stated Fred Veitch, Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Board Chairman. “Her dedication to the sport, to her team and to her cause is remarkable and we’re looking forward to her appearance at Fan Fest and on Pikes Peak for race day.”

Brinkerhoff teams up with Acura to pace the field of 76 drivers to the summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain on June 26 as the first car up the mountain just before the green flag drops at 7:30 am. (MDT)  Her trek up the 12.42 mile course around 156 turns in the Acura pace car, will help showcase the 8th consecutive year that Acura models have been at the forefront of the event.

“I am honored to be driving the limited production Acura NSX Type S pace car for the 100th Running of the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb,” shared Brinkerhoff. “Participating in this world-renowned epic race – at the top of the world and literally in the clouds – is especially meaningful for me at this time, as our team has just returned from Antarctica where we set a world record for racing one car on every continent. I am thrilled to be a part of this iconic event and I’m looking forward to watching these incredible racers do the extraordinary!”

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 automobile categories feature a wide variety of vehicles representing multiple forms of motorsport; everything from production-based Time Attack challengers to purpose-built Open Wheel racers and state-of-the-art Unlimited vehicles take on America’s Mountain pursuing victory. The 100th Running of this iconic motorsport event will take place on June 26, 2022.

ABOUT RENÈE BRINKERHOFF/ VALKYRIE RACING

Brinkerhoff is the founder and World Record breaking driver of Valkyrie Racing. Brinkerhoff has raced on every continent, including Antarctica, on roads never-before traveled by the iconic Porsche 356. Renèe became a new driver at 57 years old with no background in cars or racing. In 2013 she prepared a 1956 Porsche 356, assembled a rank novice team and became an overnight racing phenomenon when she and her team won their class in the notorious Mexican rally, La Carrera Panamericana. Renèe went on to become the only woman in history to place in the iconic rally three additional times.

As the passionate founder of Valkyrie Gives , a not-for-profit with the mission to combat child trafficking, Renèe and her team have raised nearly $700,000 with every dollar going to vetted frontline organizations around the globe. Using her platform and vision to become a “vehicle” for global change, Renèe conceived of the Project 356 World Rally Tour which endeavored to see one driver and one car race on every continent of the world in the most challenging conditions for both the car and team. With the goal of raising awareness and funds to combat child trafficking, The Valkyrie team began Project 356 in 2017 when they returned to the La Carrera Panamericana as their North American challenge. They went on to race in Targa Tasmania, Tasmania–Australia, Caminos del Inca, Peru–South America, Peking to Paris, 11 countries–Asia and Europe, East African Classic Safari Rally, Kenya & Tanzania–Africa, and Union Glacier, Antarctica. In December 2021, the Project 356 global goal was achieved when Renée and the Valkyrie Racing team completed 356 miles on the blue ice of Antarctica and nearly 20,000 miles globally.

Renèe resides in Colorado and believes that as individuals we are given three gifts – time, talent and resources – and she is committed to using all three to end child trafficking.

www.valkyrieracing.com

Contact:
For Pikes Peak:
Lisa Haight
Event Coordinator / Media / Historian
lisa@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400

For Renèe Brinkerhoff/ Valkyrie Racing
Lauren Auslander/ Tina James
LUNA
Lauren.Auslander@luna-ent.com
Tina.James@luna-ent.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: May 31, 2022

• Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Revs Up for June 24th Street Festival
• Nitro Circus Freestyle Motocross Demo to Take Center Stage
• OPTIMA Batteries Fast 15 Autograph Session with Top Qualifiers

Colorado Springs, CO – For two years, one of the most popular summer festivals has been missing from downtown Colorado Springs, due to the global pandemic, but The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo is eager to roll out this signature event once again. The hub of Fan Fest is located at Pikes Peak Avenue and Tejon Street, but the action and excitement stretch for blocks in all directions.

The free, family-friendly street fest brings race cars, drivers, action and excitement to the heart of the city for all to enjoy.

Mark your calendar and don’t miss a minute of the fun!

WHAT: Fan Fest, presented by Toyo Tires and Michelob Ultra

WHEN: Friday, June 24 – 5:00pm to 9:00pm

WHERE: Downtown Colorado Springs

ADMISSION: FREE

Schedule of Events:

  • Be the first to grab your 100thRunning apparel and the Official 2022 Souvenir Program at the merchandise tent.
  • Cheer for the jaw-dropping stunts performed by riders of the Nitro Circus Freestyle Motocross Demo, courtesy of Sam & Kathy Guadagnoli
  • Meet the OPTIMA Batteries Fast 15 qualifiers for the 100thRunning in the OPTIMA Batteries Fast 15 Alley with a fan autograph session from 6:00-7:00pm.
  • Join your friends in the Michelob Ultra Beer Garden
  • Watch Cub Scouts compete in the Council Pinewood Derby!
  • Look for photo opportunities and giveaways!

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 automobile categories feature a wide variety of vehicles representing multiple forms of motorsport; everything from production-based Time Attack challengers to purpose-built Open Wheel racers and state-of-the-art Unlimited vehicles take on America’s Mountain pursuing victory. The 100th Running of this iconic motorsport event will take place on June 26, 2022.

Contact:
Daniel Rodriguez
Director of Operations
daniel@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: May 24, 2022

Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Awards Inaugural Climbing Higher Scholarship

Colorado Springs, CO – The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, is pleased to recognize William Andrew Black as the first recipient of the Climbing Higher Award. The award’s aim is to recognize area high school seniors who demonstrate an aptitude and interest in pursuing a career related to one of the many aspects of motorsports, such as engineering, event planning, welding, power technology, photography and more.

Black, center, accompanied by WPHS Superintendent, Dr. Mathew Neal, left
Bob Bodor, right, Executive Director of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb
Photo: Larry Ingram

“We are proud to honor Andrew Black with our first ever $1,000 Climbing Higher Award,” explained Bob Bodor, Executive Director, Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. “Andrew’s interest in new engineering technologies that may refine safety protocols in the auto industry and produce measurable efficiencies in race cars is remarkable. He is poised to make a difference in any field of study he pursues, and we’re ready to support him with this award.”

Wm. Andrew Black, an accomplished senior at Woodland Park High School in Woodland Park, Colorado will graduate in May with not only a scholarship, but tickets to witness the 100th Running of the iconic Race to the Clouds on June 26th.

Graduating Summa Cum Laude, Black’s high school course work has included a wide range of mathematics, physics, and engineering classes. He has participated in both Knowledge Bowl and the Science Olympiad. While his academic work speaks for itself, instructors tout Black’s character, stating, “Andrew possesses an ironclad sense of integrity, humility, an impeccable work ethic, a sense of humor, attention to detail, and more.”

Beyond his academic pursuits, he has made time to seriously hone his craft as a musician, participating in every band program available, Marching, Pep, Symphonic and Jazz leading to a nomination as the most improved fine arts student.

Black plans to attend South Dakota School of Mines and Technology pursuing mechanical engineering and chemistry. Discussing his interest in mechanical engineering, he explains, “Looking at the world of motor sports specifically, engineers place a focus on producing safer cars to race with improvements to the body carriage and any areas susceptible to high impact collisions. This safety sector is a possible career path I could choose from, though I could also investigate the engineering process of maximizing efficiency of the race cars. Designing a new system that could allow for a more efficient use of fuel and energy, or chemically forming a new type of hyper-efficient fuel are areas offering opportunities for me to learn and innovate.”

The Climbing Higher Award will be given annually to an area high school senior who demonstrates a passion for pursuing a field related to motorsports.

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 automobile categories feature a wide variety of vehicles representing multiple forms of motorsport; everything from production-based Time Attack challengers to purpose-built Open Wheel racers and state-of-the-art Unlimited vehicles take on America’s Mountain pursuing victory. The 100th Running of this iconic motorsport event will take place on June 26, 2022.

Contact:
Lisa Haight
Event Coordinator / Media / Historian
lisa@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400

Colorado Springs, CO – On October 25, the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation will present its first Pikes Peak Community Legacy Award to the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb at the annual Colorado Springs Sports Hall of Fame ceremony held at the Broadmoor World Arena. The award was created to recognize an event or sports organization leaving an indelible impression on the community and beyond.

“On behalf of our Board of Directors, staff, race officials, volunteers, and sponsors, we are grateful to the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation for this upcoming honor,” shared Fred Veitch, Board Chairman. “It is especially meaningful as we prepare to celebrate our 100th Running of this iconic race on June 26th. The vision of our founder, Spencer Penrose, the persistence of our predecessors, and the enthusiasm from race teams, fans and media around the world have all played a role in focusing the spotlight squarely on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain for one week every summer. We are humbled by this recognition.”

In recent years the event’s global media coverage has exceeded $55 million in advertising value equivalency reaching an audience of nearly six billion via print, broadcast and digital media. A powerful economic impact is evident in Colorado Springs and the surrounding communities during the month of June.

Veitch continued, “The Road to 100, as we have themed this year’s race, will certainly continue into the next century, and we remain committed to promoting and staging one of the most spectacular races on one of the most iconic mountains in the world.”

Learn more about the Colorado Springs Sports Hall of Fame inductees

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 automobile categories feature a wide variety of vehicles representing multiple forms of motorsport; everything from production-based Time Attack challengers to purpose-built Open Wheel racers and state-of-the-art Unlimited vehicles take on America’s Mountain pursuing victory. The 100th Running of this iconic motorsport event will take place on June 26, 2022.

Contact:
Lisa Haight
Event Coordinator / Media / Historian
lisa@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400

Colorado Springs, CO – The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, celebrates Ralph Murdock’s 82nd birthday today. As the oldest competitor this year, and most likely the oldest in the history of the event, this Colorado native brings a lifelong passion for automobiles, auto racing and Colorado history. Murdock stated, “To be able to run this race up this mountain is a one-of-a-kind race and a one-of-a-kind challenge.”

In 1946 Ralph Murdock described his first experience on Pikes Peak as a six-year-old, riding with his dad to the summit. He also recalls driving his 1948 Chevy Club Coupe on the famous mountain as a teenager.

Murdock first entered the Race to the Clouds in 1965 in the Sports Car division driving a Corvette, finishing 7th with a time of 18:03.2. He returned in 1966 and improved both his finish position and his finish time, 6th place in 14:42.5. In 1967 and 1969, Murdock moved to the Open Wheel division, also in a Chevrolet, but was foiled in both attempts to finish. Undeterred, he returned in the Open Wheel group in 1970 and finished 7th in 14:11.8. Murdock put together a Stock Car entry in 1973, a Plymouth 426, but again, failed to finish.

A thirty-seven-year hiatus allowed Murdock to focus on raising his family of five children, but in 2010 Murdock was back in action, returning to the mountain in the Rocky Mountain Vintage Modified class. His 2011 entry in the same class in a 1970 Chevrolet Camaro proved Murdock was still competitive as he not only won the class but established a new class record – 12:51.004.

A lifelong auto mechanic, Murdock has never quenched his desire to learn all he can about repairing vehicles and understanding how they work. Murdock has spent the past 30 years living and working in Cascade, Colorado at the foot of Pikes Peak – a two-minute drive from the Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain Gateway.

Skilled in navigating the all-dirt course in his early years of competition coupled with experience on the paved surface since 2016, Murdock says his goal has always been the same, “To go up there, have fun and do the best I can.” Murdock is preparing to bring the 1991 Chevrolet IROC Camaro raced by his son, Kevin, in 2021, to America’s Mountain for the 100th Running and is thrilled with the new team sponsor, Axe and the Oak Distillery, and the new livery which Ralph can only describe as “ominous-looking”. Fans can see the racecar and meet Ralph Murdock at Fan Fest on June 24 in downtown Colorado Springs.

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 automobile categories feature a wide variety of vehicles representing multiple forms of motorsport; everything from production-based Time Attack challengers to purpose-built Open Wheel racers and state-of-the-art Unlimited vehicles take on America’s Mountain pursuing victory. The 100th Running of this iconic motorsport event will take place on June 26, 2022.
Contact:
Lisa Haight
Event Coordinator / Media / Historian
lisa@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: May 20, 2022

Six Kings of the Mountain to Face Off on June 26th

Five Time Champion Rod Millen to Showcase Toyota Tacoma

Colorado Springs, CO – There have been 98 King of the Mountain titles awarded and one Queen of the Mountain since the inaugural Pikes Peak National Hill Climbing Contest in 1916. On June 26, the 100th King of the Mountain will be celebrated by race fans around the globe when The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, welcomes six champions back to the mountain.

Bob Bodor, Executive Director, Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, shared, “We are thrilled to welcome these outstanding drivers and teams back to Pikes Peak. Perhaps there is no greater claim in motorsport than to be King of the Mountain at the most spectacular hill climb on earth.”

Definition: King of the Mountain – The title earned by the fastest competitor in the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb each year.

ROD MILLEN – 5-time King of the Mountain

New Zealand’s Rod Millen’s first attempted Pikes Peak in 1981, entering a 1981 Mazda RX7 in the Rally division and finishing in 13:58.7. From 1984 through 1988 he ran in the Open Rally class, slicing nearly two minutes from his finish time in the interval. Still competing in a Mazda, Millen returned in 1989 in Pikes Peak Production, claiming his first division win and record. A repeat performance was in store in 1991 when Millen notched his first sub-12-minute run.

In 1992 and 1993 Millen moved from the Mazda RX racecars to the Hyundai brand, claiming first in Showroom Stock 2 Wheel Drive and second in Pikes Peak Open.

A Toyota Celica was next for Millen and, in 1994, his win in the Unlimited division and new course record of 10:04.1 would make headlines in the racing world. Everyone had their eye on breaking that 10-minute barrier. Millen’s near perfect run on the all-dirt course was the mark to beat, and eventually was bested in 2007 by the “Monster”, Japan’s Nobuhiro Tajima. However, from a historic standpoint, Millen’s run will stand forever as the dirt-course hallmark since by the early 2000s some segments of the course – the Start Line to Halfway Picnic Grounds, and Glen Cove to the beginning of the famous switchbacks – had been paved. But 1994 was only the beginning of Millen’s success on the mountain. Four consecutive King of the Mountain wins, all behind the wheel of a Toyota, were recorded from 1996 through 1999, including two in a Toyota Tacoma. Millen was inducted to the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Museum Hall of Fame in 2016 during the 100th Anniversary celebration. He will return for his 20th run on Pikes Peak in June to introduce a new generation of fans to his 1998 King of the Mountain-winning Toyota Tacoma.

DAVID DONNER – 3-time King of the Mountain

In 1987, David Donner of Colorado Springs set his sights on following in his racing family’s footsteps on the 12.42 mile course. He would claim his first King of the Mountain title a mere four years later in the Open Wheel division behind the wheel of a 1991 Donner-Dykstra in 11:12.42. Donner consistently finished on the podium throughout the 1990s in the Open Wheel division and then in the Showroom Stock class, where he strapped in behind the wheel of a Subaru Impreza.

The early 2000s were golden for Donner as he garnered King of the Mountain crowns in 2002 and again in 2005 in the Open Wheel division, again driving a Donner-Dykstra Special.

In 2012, Donner captured a division win in a Palatov in the Unlimited division. He returned the following year in the Time Attack group in a Porsche GT3 Cup car and has remained with the Porsche brand since.

As the third-generation member of a family with enormous success on Pikes Peak, service to the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, fan favorites and race ambassadors, David Donner and the Donner family were inducted to the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Museum Hall of Fame in 2016.

Donner took a different role in 2019, leading the competitors up the mountain as the pace car driver. His next win came in 2020 in the Time Attack division. When asked what brings him back to Pikes Peak, Donner replied, “Pikes Peak is like no other event. Certainly, the challenge, but it’s a week of pure adrenalin that can go many different ways. It’s also one of the few races left that allows competitors to build some innovative equipment.” This will be Donner’s 26th event when he again showcases the Triple Zero “000” on a 2022 Porsche Turbo S.

PAUL DALLENBACH – 3-time King of the Mountain

Growing up near Aspen, Colorado, Paul Dallenbach’s love of motorsports was instilled early on as he witnessed his father, Wally, compete in the Indianapolis 500. In 1989 a young Paul Dallenbach took to the 14,115’ mountain in the Pikes Peak Production class for the first time with a finish time of just over 15 minutes. He returned in 1991 in the Open Wheel division, finishing 5th and shaving almost three minutes from his time. Two years later, 1993, he would set a course record in his #98 Davis Chevrolet in 10:43.63 – his first King of the Mountain.

Ten years later, Dallenbach would again claim the overall crown, and the following year, 2004, he would share the honor with co-King Robby Unser.

Dallenbach would claim a division record in 2013 in the Time Attack division in a 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe in 09:46.001.

Getting ready to grid in a new vehicle, Dallenbach remains in the Open Wheel division but moves his iconic #98 to a 2020 Sierra Alpha for the 100th Running. This will be his 28th run on America’s Mountain.

Along with his father, Wally Dallenbach and brother, Wally Jr., Paul and the entire Dallenbach family will be enshrined in the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Museum Hall of Fame in June.

RHYS MILLEN – 2-time King of the Mountain

Millen’s first run on the mountain, like his father’s, was in a Mazda. His time of 12:29.10 scored a first-place finish, and 1992 rookie of the year honors in the Pikes Peak Open class.

With 13 division wins, including two King of the Mountain crowns, ten division records, and an overall course record, he has become one of the most successful drivers on the famous mountain.

Millen’s first King of the Mountain crown was awarded in 2012 after a course record-setting win in the Time Attack division in a 2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe – 09:46.164. Within two years Millen could again receive the crown, and this was one for the record books. In 2015, Millen bested every other competitor on the mountain in his 2015 eO PP03 – an electric powered race car. This was the first time an electric vehicle would triumph on the mountain, winning in 09:07.222. The next time would be 2018 with Romain Dumas and the Volkswagen I.D. R setting the new time to beat – 07:57.148

In 2018, Bentley Motors traveled from the UK with a goal to set a new Production SUV record, and they chose Rhys Millen for the attempt. This proved fruitful as Millen’s vast experience paid dividends with a new Production SUV Record of 10:49.902. Millen returned in 2019 to capture a second record with Bentley, this time Millen would topple the Time Attack 2 – Production mark in the 2019 Bentley Continental GT in 10:18.488.Millen marks his 26th year at Pikes Peak this summer and moves to the Pikes Peak Open division in a 2016 E-Motion Porsche GT3R TT. Father and son look forward to a celebration together at the summit of America’s Mountain in the milestone 100th Running.

ROBIN SHUTE – 2-time King of the Mountain

Robin Shute travels to Colorado for the fifth time this summer in an attempt at back-to-back King of the Mountain titles. Although he has lived in the United States for the past 10 years, his roots are in the United Kingdom.

Shute’s first run on Pikes Peak was in 2017 in a 2016 Faraday Future FF91 entered in the Exhibition division. He finished second in the electric-powered race car. Two years later he was King of the Mountain in his Wolf TSC Honda in the Unlimited division. His finish time was 09:12.476. In 2021, Shute was again crowned King in the 2018 Wolf GB08 TSC-LT on the weather-shortened course.

Shute has entered the winning Wolf for the 2022 event and is eager to compete with other Pikes Peak royalty.

When asked about Pikes Peak heroes, Shute exclaimed, “I’m excited to see Rod Millen in the Tacoma run up the mountain this year…legendary guy and legendary car.”

CLINT VAHSHOLTZ – 1-time King of the Mountain

No driver has more division wins than Clint Vahsholtz. His love of the mountain began in childhood as he was raised in its shadow in Woodland Park, Colorado. His father, Leonard, was one of the most successful stock car and truck racers on the mountain throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

Beginning as a motorcycle competitor in 1992, Vahsholtz raced cycles for four years earning three wins and two class records.

In 1996 he was named Rookie of the Year in the Stock Car division when he finished first in 12:10.83 behind the wheel of his #18, a reversal of Leonard’s #81.

His wins on the mountain total 24, including his long-awaited King of the Mountain title in 2020.

Clint Vahsholtz, and son, Codie are both on the entry list for the 100th Running – Codie in Clint’s King of the Mountain #18 Ford Open and Clint in a 2015 Aston Martin Vantage, aptly sporting #007.

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 automobile categories feature a wide variety of vehicles representing multiple forms of motorsport; everything from production-based Time Attack challengers to purpose-built Open Wheel racers and state-of-the-art Unlimited vehicles take on America’s Mountain pursuing victory. The 100th Running of this iconic motorsport event will take place on June 26, 2022.

Photo Credits: Rupert Berrington, Revvolution.com, Jason Zindroski – HighRev Photography, Larry Chen Photo

Contact:
Lisa Haight
Event Coordinator / Media / Historian
lisa@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400