Category: Race News

‘Pikes Peak Live presented by Mobil 1’ returns for 2021 with more for fans 

Those who tune in early will be able to win limited-edition race-themed giveaways

SPRING, Texas – Following the incredible response to the inaugural broadcast last year, and the outpouring of fan inquiries this year, “Pikes Peak Live presented by Mobil 1™” will return for a second year to bring the racing action live from 14,115 feet to your mobile device.

Since 1934, Mobil™-branded products have brought innovation to the racers who choose to take on the extremes of America’s Mountain. In 2020, the challenge was different, but the team behind Mobil 1 synthetic worked closely with the organizers of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb to connect fans across the world like never before. Building on that success, key elements from last year’s livestream will continue this year, including John Hindhaugh once again providing live commentary, special guests, and more limited-edition giveaways for fans of all kinds.

For Porsche owners, a limited-edition run of 156 special “Pikes Peak Hill Grind” Porsche x Mobil 1 coffee sets will be available for those who provide their VIN for validation of ownership. Meanwhile, O’Reilly Auto Parts customers will be able to enter to win exclusive 2021 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb collectibles that commemorate the 99th running of the race.

More details around prizes and special guests will be announced closer to the stream, and those details will be announced in the same place the stream will take place – the Mobil 1 Facebook page. The broadcast will begin on Sunday, June 27 at 7 a.m., and conclude at 2 p.m. MDT, and will also be available to stream on the Mobil 1 YouTube channel. Those tuning in early will have the chance to enter to win any of the limited-edition giveaways before anyone else, and even have their questions answered by Mobil 1 partners and guests during interviews.

“We were thrilled at the glowing response from fans after last year’s livestream event, so of course we had to be back,” said Andrew Hanna, global motorsports and sponsorship advisor at ExxonMobil. “We all needed to adapt to changes last year, and we’re thankful that our fans appreciated the hard work our team and those at Pikes Peak put in to bring race fans a good show. As anyone who’s been to Pikes Peak knows, the mountain decides. This year, we’re hoping that the fans who tuned in last year decide to join us again as we look to one-up ourselves, and that new fans tune in to see what’s so special about the race to the clouds.”

Not solely presenting the livestream, Mobil 1 advanced synthetic motor oil also returns as a technology partner within the Porsche Pikes Peak Trophy by Yokohama division. All vehicles competing in the class rely on off-the-shelf Mobil 1 ESP X3 0W-40, the same motor oil available at Porsche dealers. Continuing the legacy of Mobil 1 factory-filled vehicles claiming world records on America’s Mountain, Bentley will again return with multi-time Pikes Peak champion Rhys Millen piloting a Bentley Continental GT3 protected by Mobil 1 FS 0W-40.

“It’s a tradition here at Pikes Peak that we’re a fan-driven organization, and when we listened to the feedback from last year’s stream, mission number one became partnering with the Mobil 1 team to deliver an even better stream in 2021,” said Megan Leatham, executive director of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. “The Mobil brand has been a partner of the hill climb since 1934, and has more records here than any other motor oil brand. So we couldn’t be more thankful to build on that legacy with the livestream giving back to our fans, and our partners like Porsche and O’Reilly Auto Parts. For fans who enjoyed the experience last year, they’re in for a treat this year – but all I’m going to say is they better tune in early.”

For more information on the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, visit PPIHC.org.

About Mobil 1

Mobil 1, the world’s leading synthetic motor oil brand, is factory fill in many of the world’s most powerful production vehicles. In fact, more than 1,000,000 Porsche engines have trusted Mobil 1 from day one. Mobil 1 advanced synthetic features anti-wear technology that provides performance beyond our conventional motor oils. This technology allows Mobil 1 advanced synthetic to meet or exceed the toughest standards of vehicle manufacturers like Porsche and Bentley, to provide exceptional protection against engine wear, under normal or even some of the most extreme conditions.

For more information, visit mobil1.us and follow @Mobil1 on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Colorado Springs, CO – The 99th running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo will culminate on the summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain on Sunday afternoon, June 27th with the Parade of Champions.
The car chosen to lead the drivers back down the 12.42 mile course at the conclusion of the event is the 2021 BMW M3 Competition. BMW Performance Center-West in Thermal, California has prepped the car for its Pikes Peak descent post-race on June 27th when fans will line the course to congratulate 60 competitors.

“Every year BMW Performance Centers and Winslow BMW seem to outdo themselves in providing us not only a spectacularly-engineered car, but a top professional driver as well,” said Megan Leatham, Executive Director of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. “This year we are thrilled to welcome Matt Mullins and the 2021 M3 Competition to our event.”

THE BMW M3 COMPETITION
The all new M3 Competition boasts addictive styling and unmatched engineering including a 3.0-liter BMW M TwinPower Turbo 503-hp inline 6-cylinder engine, adaptive M Suspension with electronically controlled damper, and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), including Brake Fade Compensation, Start-off Assistant, Brake Drying, and Brake Stand-by features.

MATT MULLINS
  • Chief Driving Instructor – BMW Performance Driving School, Spartanburg, SC
  • SAG-AFTRA Stunt Driver
  • Professional Race Car Driver
  • Guinness World Record Holder
Matt Mullins is the Chief Driving Instructor for the Performance Centers in the US and has been with the BMW Performance Driving School since 2001. He has raced professionally in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, ARCA Stock Car Series, Continental Tire Challenge Sports Car Series, Formula Mazda, Karts and more.

With more than 30 years of experience instructing, Matt has been a coach and instructor for thousands of students including movie stars, sports celebrities, NASCAR drivers, and US Special Forces and Secret Service agents.

Matt has more than 25 years of experience as a stunt and precision driver and was the double for Clive Owen in the BMW Film: The Escape. Other film credits include Talladega Nights, Herbie: Fully Loaded, and Ford vs Ferrari. As a SAG-AFTRA stunt driver, he has performed in numerous TV commercials and digital campaigns for BMW and other national brands.

In 2017 Matt was part of two Guinness World Records. One for the longest continuous drift and one for the longest tandem drift. Matt developed the idea of car to car refueling while drifting, and also served as stunt coordinator and driver of the refuel car for the longest continuous drift in 8 hours. He also partnered with Johan for the tandem drift record in a BMW M5.

BMW TEAMS
For the 99th running, James Clay, Tim Hardy, and Laura Hayes race a variant of popular BMW machines. Clay and Hardy have entered the Pikes Peak Open division while Hayes will challenge in Time Attack 1.

James Clay will be driving a 1996 BMW M3 twin-turbo V8, a four-year build project to create a race car specifically for Pikes Peak. Clay is leveraging his racing experience gained at venues around the world including Grand-Am and World Challenge.

Tim Hardy will has created a novel BMW 1987 E30 purchased on Craigslist for $450. He rebuilt the E30 in a garage with just friends and family and installed a twin-turbo V8 from a modern GT3. In 2018 Hardy laid down a time of 9:59.709, an impressive sub-10-minute clocking. He challenges the mountain for the 8th time in 2021.

Laura Hayes led the drivers down from the summit after the action in 2020 behind the wheel of the Parade of Champions BMW, an eye-catching M8 Competition Coupe sporting the Wrapsody 2.0 winning livery. Hayes returns to Pikes Peak as a competitor in a 2021 BMW M2CSR as one of two women entered in the event on June 27.

The first BMW to compete in the event was in 1995 with Randy Pobst behind the wheel in the IMSA class where he was forced to complete a weather-shortened course.

Other interesting BMW builds to have raced to the clouds are EV West’s BMW M83 electric conversion in 2013 and the Tyspeed BMW, piloted by Tyler Pappas driven up the rain-soaked course in 2019.

Photo Credit: BMW Performance Center, Bimmerworld, Larry Chen Photography, Christopher Holder

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

Contact:
Karina Gonzalez (Torrance): karina_gonzalez@ahm.acura.com
Chris Naughton (New York): chris_naughton@ahm.acura.com
Lynn Seely (Detroit): lynn_seely@ahm.acura.com

Media Information for Immediate Release

2022 MDX Type S Breaks Cover as Acura Race Team

Departs for Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

  • 2022 MDX Type S debuts as tow vehicle for Ohio-based Acura race team
  • Acura to enter four race cars into the 99thrunning of Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, all piloted and crewed by the company’s R&D engineers
  • Race entries include two Acura TLX Type S sport sedans competing in the Pikes Peak Open and Exhibition divisions, and two NSX supercars to challenge previous records

TORRANCE, Calif., JUNE 17, 2021— A pair of race-prepped Acura TLX Type S sport sedans will make their racing debut as Acura returns to The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, with multiple race entries piloted and crewed by the company’s R&D engineers. This year the performance brand will have four production-based race cars competing in the 99th running of Colorado’s “Race to the Clouds” on June 27, challenging the 12.42-mile 156-turn mountain course.

Making its public debut, the turbocharged 2022 MDX Type S will tow one of the TLX Type S race cars from the team’s shop in Raymond, OH to Pikes Peak, CO and support the Acura team during competition. A high-performance version of Acura’s new flagship SUV, the turbocharged MDX Type S is the first Acura SUV to wear the Type S badge and will be the brand’s quickest and most powerful SUV ever when it goes on sale later this year.

In addition, Acura’s new 2021 TLX Type S will pace the field of the prestigious motorsports event driven by television personality and self-proclaimed car nut Ant Anstead, former host of enthusiast programs like “Wheeler Dealers,” “Master Mechanic” and co-founder of Radford Motors.

Motorsports are a key proof point of Acura’s commitment to Precision Crafted Performance, and its Pikes Peak efforts are a pure expression of this ethos. For the 11th year in a row the Acura race team consists of Acura R&D engineers who compete in the world-famous hill climb to grow their skills and test future performance technologies for Acura production vehicles. The all-volunteer team is responsible for every aspect of the brand’s involvement, including the development of the race vehicles, race prep, crew support and of course driving duties.

Since first competing at the event in 2011, this volunteer effort has chalked up numerous race records and podium finishes. Acura currently holds the Hybrid class record set by James Robinson last year in the “Time Attack” Acura NSX (10:01.913), and the front-wheel drive record set in 2018 by Nick Robinson behind the wheel of a first-generation Acura TLX (10:48.094). Acura also holds the Pikes Peak Open division record of 9:24.433 set by Peter Cunningham behind the wheel of the Acura TLX GT race car.

Acura 2021 Pikes Peak Entries:

2021 Acura TLX Type S, Pikes Peak Open Division – Driver: Justin Lumbard

Acura engineer Justin Lumbard will be piloting a modified all-wheel drive TLX Type S in the highly competitive Pikes Peak Open division, where Acura currently holds the record. Lumbard’s TLX Type S has been prepped for competition with a larger turbo designed to deliver consistent boost at the exceptionally high altitudes of Pikes Peak, which reach more than 14,000 feet at the summit. The engine also features additional cooling, and the engine, transmission and SH-AWD® system software have all been retuned for race duty.

Chassis modifications include a race-prepped suspension with a 1-inch drop in ride height, race-compound brake pads with additional brake cooling and temperature monitoring and lightweight HRE 19 x 9.5-inch race wheels with Pirelli slicks.

More than 600 pounds of weight have been eliminated by removing the sedan’s interior and the use of lightweight components including a carbon fiber hood. On the exterior, the aerodynamic benefits of its composite front splitter, rear wing and dive planes have been tuned using Acura’s R&D computer aided design simulations.

Lumbard joined the Acura Pikes Peak team in 2017, became co-leader in 2018, and assumed the leadership role last year. The 2020 competition also was his first year driving in the race, taking the wheel of a 2021 TLX 2.0T in the Exhibition division, where he finished sixth in the group.

2021 Acura TLX Type S, Exhibition Division – Driver: Jordan Guitar

Jordan Guitar is a member of the company’s Chassis Development Group, and made his Pikes Peak debut in 2018 driving a third-generation Acura RDX, and returned in 2019 piloting an Acura MDX Sport Hybrid. Last year, Guitar drove a 2021 Acura TLX 2.0T SH-AWD® to a fifth-place finish in the Exhibition division.

This year, Guitar’s 2021 Acura TLX Type S has been modified with a race-tuned active suspension that includes a 1-inch ride height drop, lightweight HRE 19 x 9-inch race wheels and Pirelli race slicks. Approximately 300 pounds have been stripped from the car, the sedan’s engine management system has been re-tuned for race duty and a rear wing helps optimize its aerodynamics.

Acura NSX, Time Attack 1 Division – Driver: James Robinson

James Robinson will again drive the “Time Attack” NSX, which returns to the Peak for the fifth consecutive year. This is Robinson’s 11th time at Pikes Peak, with his past successes including the Hybrid production car record set with an NSX in 2020 (10:01.913), as well as podium finishes in the Exhibition, Open and Time Attack 1 divisions.

The “Time Attack” NSX features improved aerodynamics by way of a larger rear wing and aggressive front splitter. Larger turbochargers and enhanced engine management software increase total system output to around 625 horsepower. Various weight reduction measures, including a stripped interior, reduce the supercar’s weight by more than 200 lbs. Its lightweight HRE forged wheels are wrapped in high-grip Pirelli R-compound tires.

Acura NSX, Exhibition Division – Driver: Nick Robinson

Like his brother James, Nick Robinson has successfully competed at Pikes Peak multiple times, winning the PP250 class on a Honda motorcycle in 2015, securing a Time Attack 2 Production Class win in an NSX in 2016, winning Exhibition class in 2017 and establishing a front-wheel-drive record of 10:48.094 in 2018.

This year, the R&D engineer will be driving a near-stock Acura NSX in a declared Time Attack 2 production record attempt. Modifications to the production-spec supercar include OMP safety equipment and the use of DOT-approved Hoosier race tires per class rules.

2022 Acura MDX Type S

Powered by the brand’s all-new Type S Turbo V6 the 2022 MDX Type S delivers 355-horsepower, 354 ft.-lbs. of peak torque and a max towing rating of 5,000 lbs[1]. Exclusive to Acura Type S models, this new engine was developed by some of the company’s most experienced powertrain engineers, including members of the team that developed the bespoke twin-turbocharged V6 for the NSX supercar.

The high-performance SUVs also features Acura’s advanced Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) with true torque-vectoring, a quick-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, Brembo® front brakes and double-wishbone front suspension, along with a Type S-exclusive Sport+ driving mode that sharpens responses for even greater performance and driver enjoyment.

More details about MDX Type S will be available closer to its on-sale date later this year.

About Acura

Acura is a leading automotive nameplate that delivers Precision Crafted Performance – a commitment to expressive styling, high-performance and innovative engineering, all built on a foundation of quality and reliability. The Acura lineup features five distinctive models – the ILX and TLX sport sedans, the RDX and MDX sport-utility vehicles, high-performance Type S variants and the electrified NSX supercar. All 2021 model year and newer Acura vehicles sold in America are made in the U.S., using domestic and globally sourced parts.

Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

How to Experience it on the Mountain – and Beyond

Colorado Springs, CO – The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, is gearing up for the 99th annual Race to the Clouds.

What takes race organizers and competitors 364 days to prepare for culminates with a spectacular one-day motorsports race to the summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain on Sunday, June 27. Race fans from across the country and around the world will be cheering on their favorites as they tackle the 12.42-mile course.

In addition to the exciting race day action, there are lead-up events and a list of things to do before the big day.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

Friday, June 18

Noon (Mountain Daylight Time)

Turn 156

Podcast – “Turn 156” new episode featuring Randy Pobst. Hosted by Robb Holland and Mitch Snow. New episodes every Friday in June.

 

Saturday, June 19

10:00am – 11:00am (Mountain Daylight Time)

Race to the Clouds ~ 100 Years in the Making

Broadcast on KRDO News Channel 13

 

Monday, June 21

9:00am – 4:00pm

Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Technical Inspection

The Broadmoor World Arena – Parking Lot D

This free event allows fans to see all the drivers as they present their race cars for inspection throughout the day.

 

Tuesday, June 22 through Friday, June 25

5:30am – 8:30am (Gateway open from 4:00am to 5:00am only)

Pikes Peak International Hill Climb – Practice and Qualifying Sessions

Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain

Competitors are divided into groups which practice on one of the three sections of the course throughout the week. The lower section of the course is the qualifying section. There is no qualifying on Friday. This is an optional practice day. Daily admission tickets are available HERE.

 

Friday, June 25

5:00pm – 7:00pm

Race Merchandise and Ticket Sales at the Switchbacks Fan Zone

Weidner Field

Join us in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs to grab Official 2021 Pikes Peak Int’l Hill Climb souvenirs and purchase race tickets.

Bring the kids and stay for the soccer game at brand-new Weidner Field. Discounted tickets to see the Switchbacks on June 25th are available HERE.

 

Sunday, June 27

7:30am Green Flag Drops (Gates open at 2:30am)

99th Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo

Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain

Sixty drivers in six divisions focus on reaching the summit, but the mountain decides who will be crowned King! Spectators are welcome and tickets are on sale now HERE!

 

Can’t be on the mountain but want to catch the action? Here’s how!

Visit Colorado Springs

Create memories to last a lifetime by exploring all the great outdoor parks, unique eateries and music venues. For a list of what’s going on around town, click HERE 

Escape the summer heat and visit these great museums!

Penrose Heritage Museum – The Pikes Peak Hill Climb Experience

11 Lake Circle

Open Tuesday – Sunday

9:00am – 4:00pm

Located near The Broadmoor and the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, this free museum tells the story of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in spectacular fashion. Visit the Hall of Fame exhibit on the upper level.

United States Olympic and Paralympic Museum™

200 S. Sierra Madre Street

Downtown Colorado Springs

Open 7 days a week

Visit this award-winning, uniquely designed and highly interactive museum to explore the inspiring stories of Team USA. Purchase tickets in advance, and use promo code RIDE to save 20%

 

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

Colorado Springs, CO – Catch the inaugural episode of Turn 156 with our hosts Robb Holland and Mitch Snow as they share historic highlights, memorable moments and build backstories.

When: Friday, June 11 (and every Friday in June at noon MDT)

Where: Spotify – or wherever you listen to podcasts

  • A quick history of the Race to the Clouds
  • The story behind Bobby Unser’s 1986 “King of the Mountain” run
  • The .017 second difference between Rhys Millen and Romain Dumas in 2012
  • Their 2021 competitor preview and King of the Mountain predictions
  • And much more!

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 course consists of 156 turns, boasts an elevation gain of 4,725 feet, and reaches a finish line at 14,115 feet 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 motorsports event will take place in 2022.

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

Contact:
Karina Gonzalez (Torrance): karina_gonzalez@ahm.acura.com
Chris Naughton (New York): chris_naughton@ahm.acura.com
Lynn Seely (Detroit): lynn_seely@ahm.acura.com

2021 TLX Type S Will Pace 99th Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Driven by Car Nut and TV Personality Ant Anstead

  • Acura returns as sponsor and competitor in America’s most grueling hill climb
  • 2021 TLX Type S to pace the historic race with television personality Ant Anstead behind the wheel
TORRANCE, Calif., June 10, 2021—Acura’s best performing sedan ever, the new 2021 TLX Type S, will pace the 99th running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo on June 27. Driving the TLX Type S pace car up the challenging 12.42-mile hill climb will be television personality and self-proclaimed car nut Ant Anstead, former host of enthusiast programs like “Wheeler Dealers,” “Master Mechanic” and co-founder of Radford Motors.

The TLX Type S is well suited to pace the field on Colorado’s challenging mountain course with its turbocharged V6 engine producing 355-horsepower, standard Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) with true torque-vectoring, quick-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, Brembo® brakes and double-wishbone front suspension. Moreover, its Type S-exclusive Sport+ driving mode sharpens responses for even greater performance and driver enjoyment.

Known as the Race to the Clouds, Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is one of America’s longest running motorsports competitions. Since 1916, drivers from all over the world and a wide variety of vehicles from multiple motorsports disciplines race against the clock as they take on the 156-turn course, starting at 9,390 feet and climbing to the 14,115 summit.

Last year, a development prototype of the highly-anticipated TLX Type S paced the historic hill climb and Acura vehicles have competed in the event since 2012, recording numerous race records and podium finishes. In 2020, Honda R&D engineer James Robinson beat his own Hybrid record by more than half a second behind the wheel of an Acura NSX with a time of 10:01.913. Acura also holds the front-wheel drive record, set by James’ brother and fellow engineer Nick Robinson (10:48.094) in 2018, and the Pikes Peak Open all-wheel drive record (9:24.433) was set by race car driver Peter Cunningham in 2019, driving the Acura TLX GT race car.

British television personality and car restorer Ant Anstead gained popularity in his home country on shows such as “For the Love of Cars” before becoming a household name in the U.S. co-hosting “Wheeler Dealers.” Recently, Anstead and business partner, Formula One World Champion Jenson Button, are bringing luxury coachbuilding back with Radford Motors.

About Acura
Acura is a leading automotive nameplate that delivers Precision Crafted Performance – a commitment to expressive styling, high-performance and innovative engineering, all built on a foundation of quality and reliability. The Acura lineup features five distinctive models – the ILX and TLX sport sedans, the RDX and MDX sport-utility vehicles and the electrified NSX supercar. All 2021 model year and newer Acura vehicles sold in America are made in the U.S., using domestic and globally sourced parts.

Additional media information including pricing, features & specifications and high-resolution photography is available at AcuraNews.com. Consumer information is available at Acura.com.

Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Launches Podcast

Turn 156 – Hosted by Robb Holland and Mitch Snow

  • Meet our co-hosts
  • Hear the secrets behind the builds
  • Feel like you’re in the driver’s seat
  • Listen to personal stories and challenges

Colorado Springs, CO – The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, is excited to announce a new podcast aptly named “Turn 156,” a tribute to the 156 turns on Pikes Peak-America’s Mountain and that final corner marked by the checkered flags.

Meet the Hosts!

Robb Holland

Veteran Pikes Peak International Hill Climb competitor, Robb Holland, asks the challenging questions and draws out behind-the-scenes details in each episode. Co-owner of Rotek Racing in Nurberg, Germany, and no stranger to the Nurburgring, Holland has worked as a professional driver since 2005. Holland set a record in a front-wheel drive vehicle in 2016 – his rookie year on the mountain. Holland shares insight on the 2017 Pikes Peak run in his 900 horsepower salvaged Corvette Z06 on a popular episode of Mastering the Mountain. He returns to Pikes Peak for his fifth run in 2021 in a 2018 Audi S3. When he’s not on the air, he’s either racing, working or writing automotive content for Jalopnik, Road & Track, Autoblog or Grassroots Motorsports.

Mitch Snow

Mitch Snow is a Colorado Springs native, third generation race supporter, and the former Director of Promotion & Legacy of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Snow’s passion for preserving and sharing race history is evident in his involvement in creation of The Pikes Peak Hill Climb Experience exhibit at the Penrose Heritage Museum, the centennial documentary “Race to the Clouds: 100 Years in the Making”, reviving The Broadmoor Special Yellow Devil, and reestablishing of the Hall of Fame. He also worked to build upon the event’s history and share it with the masses as it entered the ”paved” era including cultivating projects such as Ken Block’s Climbkhana, a variety of international and domestic television programs, and establishing high profile partnerships with the likes of Gran Turismo, TAG Heuer, and more.

Check out the official trailer!

Listen to the official trailer

Listen on Spotify and make sure to follow us for giveaways and new Season 1 episode notifications each Friday through June!

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BBi Autosport Leads a Triple-Porsche Race Effort at the 2021 Pikes Peak International Hillclimb

Famed Drivers Raphaël Astier, David Donohue and Tanner Foust Bring BBI’s Heightened Porsche Technology to ‘The Mountain’ with Three Separate Porsches in Three Divisions

HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA (05.10.2021) BBi Autosport returns for the 6th time to take on the Pikes Peak mountain in the 99th running of America’s second oldest race, The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo June 27, 2021 – regarded as one of the most famous and arduous racing events in the Rockies and the world. For this year’s 2021 effort, BBi returns to ‘the Mountain” with three Porsche race cars and BBI’s impressive and updated aerodynamics to three divisions: Open Class, Time Attack 1 and the Porsche Pikes Peak Trophy division by Yokohama.

“We have learned so much competing at the PPIHC from our past experiences and to apply those learnings on three different Porsche platforms takes it all to a new level” says Betim Berisha, Owner of BBi Autosport. “This event is extremely special to us as we are able to incorporate our full range of know-how while fulfilling our passion for racing. The Porsches and the team go through some of the toughest environments and conditions imaginable,” according to Berisha. “We take this home and apply it to our everyday operation, our development and products for fellow enthusiasts.”

The BBI Team 

“Lucy”, the OPTIMA Batteries Porsche GT3 “TurboCup” which set the TA1 record in 2019 is back again, this time in the Open division and is once again being piloted by French rally car driver, Raphaël Astier. BBI has improved the OPTIMA “Turbocup” from the 2019 configuration to remain competitive in the new division.

David Donohue returns for another attempt in “Sunny” the Audrain Motorsport GT2 RS Clubsport after an incomplete run in 2020. Learnings from the 2020 effort have allowed BBI’s team to improve speed and bring more advanced technology to the updated 2021 BBi EVO variant of the GT2 RS Clubsport. The Audrain Motorsport GT2 RS once again runs in the highly competitive Time Attack 1 group.

Finally, Tanner Foust will be piloting the OPTIMA Yokohama Porsche GT4 Clubsport in the Porsche Pikes Peak Trophy by Yokohama division. Foust, a 4-time competitor, is no stranger to the mountain, racing on it in prior years before the course was fully paved. BBi has partnered with Porsche Motorsport North America to support Foust’s effort.

This year BBi has key technical partners that bring forward technological advancements and help achieve the performance needed.

All three cars are supported by Yokohama and are equipped with the ADVAN A005™ slicks on the TurboCup and GT2 RS CS and A052® tires on the GT4. BBi will be the first to demonstrate the new proactive damper technology from Suspension Research Innovations and JRZ, outfitting all three race cars with the new dampers. Airtech, industry leader in composites manufacturing, is supporting BBi with 3D printed molds for carbon fiber components and supplying the brand new NEXX carbon fiber material. Aerosim-Research along with Verus Engineering have been key in finding downforce and reducing drag though aerodynamic studies and part development. The team at Oilstain Lab has been leading the creative on livery development for all three race cars.

BBi is joining The Little Warrior Foundation to help raise awareness, funding and finding cures for childhood cancers, with a specific focus on Ewing’s Sarcoma. The organization funds projects and research that have high potential for saving kids’ lives. Lucy Spada is one of many kids affected by this cancer and BBi is dedicating “Lucy” the OPTIMA GT3 TurboCup and the other two race cars in the lineup to putting a spotlight on the cause. For more information, view: http://www.little-warrior.org

 

RACING FOR GOOD

As the BBI Autosport Team at Pikes Peak makes its mark on ‘The Mountain,’ for 2021 the team will also be gaining additional recognition by raising awareness and funds for two meaningful charitable causes, benefitting local organizations for Ewing’s Sarcoma and Parkinson’s Disease, through BBi’s support for two nationally recognized foundations: THE LITTLE WARRIOR FOUNDATION and DRIVE TOWARD A CURE.

BBi is joining The Little Warrior Foundation to help raise awareness, funding and finding cures for childhood cancers, with a specific focus on Ewing’s Sarcoma. The organization funds projects and research that have high potential for saving kids’ lives. Lucy Spada is one of many kids affected by this cancer and BBi is dedicating “Lucy” the OPTIMA GT3 TurboCup and the other two race cars in the lineup to putting a spotlight on the cause. For more information, view: http://www.little-warrior.org

Additional funding will be provided to non-profit Drive Toward a Cure, a 501(c)3 organization that raises funds and awareness for Parkinson’s Disease research AND patient care. Inspired by the camaraderie found within the automotive culture, the Foundation’s mission benefits equally from both enthusiast communities and industry professionals and since 2016 has raised more than a half million dollars including contributions that benefit various Parkinson’s Foundation Centers of Excellence on local, regional, and national levels through Drive Toward a Cure’s “Access to Care” program. 100% of BBI’s contributions to Drive Toward a Cure will benefit the University of Colorado Movement Disorders Center located in Aurora, located on the campus of the largest health center in the Rocky Mountain Region. For more information view: www.drivetowardacure.org

 

TEAM BACKGROUND

Drivers

Raphaël Astier

French rally car driver Raphaël Astier has raced for 11 years with championship wins in the French Rally Cup, WRC3 and FIA RGT Rally. This year will be his fourth race at Pikes Peak. In 2019, Astier piloted the OPTIMA GT3 TurboCup to set the TA1 record. Pikes Peak is close to his heart and he is looking forward to more division wins.

David Donohue

David Donohue has firmly established himself as a champion racing driver with an impressive resume that includes time spent in Touring Cars, Prototypes, NASCAR Stock Car and Craftsman Truck Series. He was an integral part of the Brumos Racing family, driving a Brumos Racing Daytona Prototype in every Rolex Sports Car series race from 2003 through 2010. In 2009 he co-drove to victory in the Rolex 24 at Daytona. Donohue and co-driver Darren Law joined Action Express Racing in 2011, sharing three podium finishes and a 3rd place finish in DP driver points. Donohue returned to Action Express Racing in 2012 with an all-new Corvette Daytona Prototype finishing 4th in points. He was the 2013 Rolex-24 Hour GX class winner in Napleton Racing’s Porsche Cayman.

Tanner Foust

World-record holder Tanner Foust is a versatile and multi-talented driver known for his supreme car control and a proven track record of podium placements, national and global championships. He is a three-time U.S. RallyCross champion (2012, 2011, 2010) who has also won four X Games gold medals (2013, 2010, 2007), and two Formula Drift championships (2008, 2007).

Foust is the first American driver to win a round of the European RallyCross Championship and finished both 2011 and 2012 ranked in the top three. In North America, Foust has been a dominant rallycross driver since the sport of rallycross was first introduced to the United States in 2010. His varied race experience includes multiple years of open wheel competition, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, rally racing, various types of sports car racing and the SCORE Baja. He has represented the USA in the annual Race of Champions three times (2010, 2009, 2008).

 

BBi Title Sponsors

Audrain Motorsport

David Donohue in the GT2 RS Clubsport

https://audrainmotorsport.com

Audrain Motorsport is a carefully curated assortment of immersive automotive experiences for the enthusiast. It is all about the chance to share extraordinary experiences centered around the way you want to engage with cars and motorcycles. No matter where your passion connects, on a tour, rally or back country drive; exploring the limits of your car and your talent against the clock on a track; as an insider at the world’s leading Concours d’Elegance and historic races; or sharing conversation with the movers, shakers and legends of the motoring world in an intimate setting, we are here to make it possible.

OPTIMA Batteries

Raphaël Astier in the GT3 “TurboCup”

Tanner Foust in the GT4 Clubsport

https://www.optimabatteries.com

With a 40-year history of technological innovation and engineering, OPTIMA® products offer unstoppable power for extreme enthusiasts and others who require THE ULTIMATE POWER SOURCE. In the 1970s, OPTIMA Batteries introduced the first maintenance-free lead acid batteries for commercial and military use and the first high?performance AGM automotive batteries. OPTIMA revolutionized the industry with the introduction of its unique SPIRALCELL TECHNOLOGY® as well as developing its first digital battery charger and maintainer.

Yokohama Tires

Tanner Foust in the GT4 Clubsport

https://www.yokohamatire.com/

Yokohama Tire Corporation is the North American manufacturing and marketing arm of Tokyo, Japan-based The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd. Since expanding to the United States in 1969, they have been an industry leader in tire technology and innovation across the globe. All three BBi Porsche race vehicles are running on Yokohama tires this year. The OPTIMA GT3 TurboCup and Audrain GT2 RS Clubsport on ADVAN A005 race slicks and Foust’s GT4 on the ADVAN A052 tires. Yokohama is providing critical technical support to keep the cars at peak performance when it comes to grip and safety

 

About BBi Autosport:

BBi Autosport, founded in 2005, specializes in Porsche service and race engineering, blending motorsport and street performance throughout the BBi product line and comprehensive workshop services. Located in Huntington Beach, Calif., BBi is the premier Porsche service facility in Southern California. BBi develops a comprehensive line of performance aftermarket and safety upgrades for all Porsche platforms and offers bespoke street and race engineering services. Through industry partnerships and new technology, BBi pushes the envelope in engineering and performance.

The Pikes Peak race and experience has captivated the team since the first race effort with Jeff Zwart in 2013, running the Porsche 997 “TurboCup”. This is one of the hardest events to prepare for given the unpredictable and brutal nature of the environment, limited access and complexity of the racecourse. Taking on the diverse challenges is what has been so intriguing for the team along with the general Pikes Peak sportsmanship and “family” of racers, teams and supporters. So many come together from across the world as there is no other race like the “Race to the Clouds” at Pikes Peak.

Audrain Motorsport, OPTIMA Batteries, Yokohama Tire, Little Warriors Foundation, Porsche Motorsport North America, Porsche Colorado Springs, RDS Automotive Group, Airtech, PFC, JRZ, Suspension Research Innovation, Rotiform, Verus Engineering, Aerosim Research, Garrett, Motul USA, Innovative Pro Design, Pankl Racing, Obsidian Motorsport Group, M-Engineering, Arobahn, Oilstain Lab, Creaform3D, ScanHub3D, Flying L Racing, STEK USA, Milwaukee Tools, Bill Rader Motorsports

 

Media Partners

Hoonigan / 000 Magazine / Linkage Magazine

 

BBi Media and PR Portal:

https://www.bbiautosport.com/bbihc2021

PR Contact: Dmitriy Orlov 301.675.2634

Sixteen Drivers Take on Pikes Peak for the First Time on June 27

Meet Six of these Elite Competitors

Colorado Springs, CO — When the green flag drops on June 27th kicking off the 99th Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, sixteen rookies will set their sights on the summit of America’s Mountain. Some will travel from as far away as Australia and France. Others live in the shadow of Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs and Woodland Park. All share the same drive to conquer the course and master the mountain.

Benjamin Councill

Colorado Springs, Colorado – USA

Division: Pikes Peak Open

Vehicle: 2004 Cadillac XLR

Councill has long dreamed of racing on Pikes Peak. He has been a fan and worked as a crew member since 2010. “I love a challenge! I’m focusing on making sure both my car and I are in the best condition we can be for the race,” said Councill. “The only thing that pulls me away from racing is my amazing daughter, Allison, and I’d like to talk her into getting behind the wheel someday.”

Brett Dickie

Narre Warren, Australia

Division: Unlimited

Vehicle: 2000 Honda S2000

This 31-year old competitor began racing at age eight and has only missed one year on the track. Dickie’s journey to Pikes Peak began in 2018 when he won the Clubsprint Class in World Time Attack. He shared, “We were out for dinner one night in 2020 with the amazing crew from LA-based Project Import and the subject of Pikes Peak came up in conversation. The owner mentioned it was a dream to do it. I said, ‘Don’t dream! Let’s do!’ and we decided to rebuild the team’s Honda S2000 Time Attack Car. I wouldn’t be here without them.”

Cameron Ingram

Durham, North Carolina – USA

Division: Porsche Pikes Peak Trophy by Yokohama

Vehicle: 2020 Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport

“I love the history of hill climb events in Europe and Porsche’s success story with those events,” explains Ingram. “Pikes Peak is one of the last and truly grueling hill climb events left in the world. It’s a challenge in every way.” Ingram, co-owner of Road Scholars, author of Porsche Unexpected; Discoveries in Collecting, and Porsche aficionado has won more than 74 Concours awards and will be competing at both the Amelia Island and Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance this year.

Laurent Millara

Roquevaire, France

Division: Time Attack 1

Vehicle: 2008 Porsche 911 GT3

Drawn by the spirit of hill climb racing on Pikes Peak and mentored by overall course record holder, Romain Dumas, Millara’s racing experience encompasses GT and Le Mans prototype, including Le Mans 24 Hours. He is also well versed in track racing, rallying and ice racing.

William “Mirl” Swan

Brownsburg, Indiana – USA

Division: Unlimited

Vehicle: 2006 Swift 016a

Swan first learned about Pikes Peak watching ESPN’s SpeedWorld. “It’s one of the most iconic races in the world,” he explained. “The challenge of the course is what drew me to Pikes Peak.” His racing success began in 1992 when he was crowned SCCA Rookie and Driver of the Year for the Kansas Region. By 2009 he won at Sebring International Raceway in the Formula Atlantic Pro Series. Swan will run a Formula Atlantic chassis on Pikes Peak originally built by Swift Engineering.

Codie Vahsholtz

Woodland Park, Colorado – USA

Division: Open Wheel

Vehicle: 2013 Ford Open

Vahsholtz may be a rookie in a race car, but is a seasoned professional aboard a motorcycle on Pikes Peak. With ten years of competition on America’s Mountain under his belt in almost every motorcycle division, Vahsholtz holds the record set in 2013 in the Pikes Peak 250cc class. This year, he makes the shift from motorcycles to cars when he gets behind the wheel of his father’s, 2020 winning car. Codie joins his father, Clint, 2020 King of the Mountain, who holds 24 division wins, and his grandfather, Leonard, a Pikes Peak Hill Climb Hall of Famer, as the third generation to challenge the 14,115 summit.

View the full 2021 Competitor List HERE

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 course consists of 156 turns, boasts an elevation gain of 4,725 feet, and reaches a finish line at 14,115 feet 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 motorsports event will take place in 2022.

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

Colorado Springs, CO – The entire Pikes Peak International Hill Climb family is mourning the loss of auto racing legend and Pikes Peak icon, Bobby Unser.

From his earliest days on Pikes Peak, Unser’s racing talent was evident. His first entry in 1955 was in the Open Wheel division where he finished 5th, behind brothers Louis J. and Jerry, in a field of nearly 30 competitors. In 1956, Bobby Unser won the Open Wheel division, setting a new course record in the process. This was the first of eight course records Unser would achieve on America’s Mountain, including an unprecedented five consecutive overall records from 1958 through 1962.

King of the Mountain, the title given to the fastest driver each year was bestowed on Unser ten times, more than any competitor in nearly 100 years of racing on Pikes Peak. He raced and won in the Open Wheel, Sports Car, Stock Car and Rally divisions.  After a 12-year hiatus Unser returned to competition in 1986 determined to best the overall record of 11:25.390 set in 1985 by France’s Michèle Mouton. As usual, he accomplished what he set out to do, and once again his name was etched in the record books. He raced the Audi Quattro Sport to the summit in 11:09.220.

“I knew Bobby for 44 years. He was a mythical legend to me who became a good friend,” said Bob Gillis, former chairman of the board for the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. “Not only did he win on Pikes Peak again and again, but he was perhaps one of the greatest ambassadors for this race. He brought drivers like Parnelli Jones and Mario Andretti to Pikes Peak. When he returned to the mountain with Audi in 1986 to recapture the King of the Mountain crown, he proved he was never better behind the wheel.”

Bobby Unser became a legend on the 12.42 mile course to the summit of Pikes Peak, and beyond and, by his own account, his success on Pikes Peak opened doors. As a world-renowned driver, Unser moved on to race and win at tracks around world, but he never forgot his roots. Inspired by the generation that preceded him, especially his uncle, Louis, Bobby Unser knew what he wanted and set out to get it. His competitive nature was nearly always evident, but so was his willingness to help fellow competitors by sharing advice and offering encouragement.

Bobby Unser was among the first inducted to the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Museum Hall of Fame in 1997. His tribute reads:

American Racing Legend

Lifetime Pikes Peak Supporter

13 records in 18 years

Never failed to finish

3-time Indy winner

“Fans of the Pikes Peak Hill Climb will greatly miss Bobby Unser,” shared Don Sanborn, President of the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Historical Association. “As a driver, his feats on Pikes Peak were unparalleled, with eight course records and 10 King of the Mountain titles. As an innovator, his collaboration with Goodyear Tire Company resulted in the Pikes Peak Special, a tire unmatched in its ability to provide traction and for many years was used by all competitors as the go-to tire for the dirt race course. As a story teller, he could entertain for hours with stories about Pikes Peak. From a humble start with no money for race fuel and nothing but an insatiable desire to go fast on Pikes Peak, Bobby realized his dreams through pure grit and determination.”

Bobby Unser has left an enduring legacy on Pikes Peak. His sensational career inspired generations to dream of what was possible and to follow in his footsteps. He accepted the challenge, embraced the danger and conquered the mountain.  He will be greatly missed.