Dress like a true PPIHC fan!
Order your 2024 Official Merch now!
Jackets, T-shirts, hats, stickers and more are available now.
Look for NEW items rolling out throughout the month of May.
Place online orders by June 12th to ensure delivery by Race Day.
Race fans may also shop the store in person throughout Race Week in Colorado Springs, beginning at Technical Inspection on Monday, June 17 at The Broadmoor World Arena.
Shop early for best selection!
Colorado Springs, CO — In preparation for the 102nd Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, and as part of the Tom Osborne Community Engagement initiative, regional artists were invited to submit poster designs that both captured and incorporated this year’s theme: Often Challenged. Rarely Conquered.
The winning design was submitted by Rachel Aweida, a Colorado native who works in marketing for a commercial real estate firm. She will receive a $1,000 cash award. The Aweida name is likely familiar to PPIHC fans, as her father, Dan, and brother, Trevor, are both competitors.
The artwork is titled: 14,000′ Closer to Mars
“I have a strong family connection to the Pikes Peak Hill Climb. It has been inspiring to watch and support my father and brother in their passion for racing on this mountain.
A couple of years ago, we lost our home and shop in the Marshall Fire, and my dad and brother were faced with the daunting task of rebuilding their dream from the ground up. Despite all the challenges they encountered, their determination and true love for cars never faltered. Watching them pour their blood, sweat, and tears into their race cars has been a humbling and awe-inspiring experience.
I found myself drawn to participate in this year’s contest and contribute to my family’s legacy in this event. The 2024 slogan, “Often Challenged. Rarely Conquered” struck a chord with me on a personal level. As I watch my family ascend the mountain, I’m reminded of the extraordinary feat they accomplish every single year. This led me to create something “out of this world” because that’s how special and astonishing I see the race – just like landing (not to mention racing) on Mars. I used a photo of my dad racing in the Pikes Peak Hill Climb in the car that was lost in the fire, but instead of on Pikes Peak, he’s racing around a planet similar to Mars. I aimed to capture the essence of this remarkable event by conveying the out-of-this-world experience, the thrill of the climb, and the triumph of overcoming all the obstacles we have faced along the way.”
Rachel Aweida
Meet Rachel and get a free copy of this exclusive poster at PPIHC’s Fan Fest on June 21st in Downtown Colorado Springs from 5:00 to 9:00 pm.
See additional designs and vote for your favorite on PPIHC social media channels in our People’s Choice category, beginning Monday, May 6.
Winner of the People’s Choice will be awarded $250.
Colorado Springs, CO – The 102nd Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, is just two months away. Some teams have been preparing for nearly a year to return to the mountain. Bruce Jouanny of Èze Bord de Mer, France and French automaker, Quarkus, with advice and backing from Pikes Peak icon, Ari Vatanen, began planning the project in November, 2023. On June 23, Jouanny will strap in behind the wheel of the #26 Quarkus P3 in Pikes Peak’s Unlimited division.
Bruce Jouanny started his racing career as a teenager in single seaters – Formula Renault, Formula Palmer Audi, Formula 3, and World Series By Nissan/Renault, before moving onto sports cars – LMP2 and LMP1 – and racing at 24 Hours of Le Mans.
He has since then raced many different cars, but now focuses on TV as he was one of the three presenters of the French Top Gear show, and is now a test driver for the Automoto show on French TV channel TF1.
“To be honest, coming to Pikes Peak is always something I wanted to do,” explained Jouanny, “but my racing career was 100% on circuits, and I never really had the occasion. So I feel extremely lucky to be here. It’s a bit of a dream come true, but it’s also completely new with a lot to learn and to take in. I hope it’s only the beginning of many more Pikes Peak races for me.”
The project was initiated in November of 2023. With such a tight timeline, Quarkus chose the experienced team of RD Limited led by four-time Pikes Peak King of the Mountain and current course record holder, Romain Dumas. RD Limited will provide operational and technical support.
From concept to creation, it took several months of research and development for the Quarkus team of enthusiasts, headed by Damien Alfano, to put the brand’s first car on the track.
When asked how he and this innovative machine came to be on Pikes Peak this year, Jouanny replied, “Ari (Vatanen) introduced me to Quarkus CVEO, Damien Alfano, saying that I needed to check out that car and broadcast it on French TV. After having a good look at the car, thinking that Ari was the link, I thought to myself, ‘We should do Pikes Peak with this car.’ I left a voice message for Damien at 2 a.m., and here we are!”
The Quarkus P3 in its Pikes Peak configuration features:
Asked about the team’s goals for this year, Jouanny offered, “We are here to learn. We started from scratch, and I really mean from scratch, five months ago. So, reaching the top, taking it all in, and gathering information is the target.”
“After months of intensive work on the prototype of this car, I feel an immense sense of pride and accomplishment to finally be able to present it to you. As a motorsport enthusiast, I’m proud to share our vision of innovation and performance with luxury car aficionados. The Quarkus P3 Pikes Peak embodies the very essence of our commitment to excellence and the thrill of driving. I would also like to express my gratitude to our dedicated teams, whose hard work has made this dream possible.” Damien Alfano, founder of Quarkus
The Quarkus P3 with Pikes Peak livery will be revealed on May 2 at the Prestige Auto Show in Beaune, France.
About QUARKUS
Quarkus SAS, was created on November 26, 2020, Les Mureaux, France.
Quarkus is a new French carmaker. It’s not just an assembler or tuner. All vehicle systems are designed, developed and manufactured in France at QUARKUS.
Quarkus is based in the Vallée de Seine in western Paris. It’s a region that saw the birth of the automobile over 120 years ago. This historical anchorage has meaning and is part of the brand’s philosophy.
The choice to compete Pikes Peak was an obvious one, since the renowned Ari Vatanen is a close follower and patron of the Quarkus project. The Finnish driver was crowned King of the Mountain in 1988, winning the Rally Open division and setting the course record at the time.
Vatanen was featured in the short film, Climb Dance, and through the film has become an ambassador for the race by introducing viewers worldwide to the excitement, sights and sounds of auto racing on Pikes Peak. Vatanen will be inducted to the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Museum Hall of Fame, in Colorado Springs, in June.
GET TO KNOW BRUCE JOUANNY
Fun Facts:
“Skydiving is my hobby, but I enjoy sports in general.”
“I drive a Toyota FJ Cruiser, Desert Beige, that I have customized a bit. A perfect car for holidays with the kids…just not easy to park in Monaco.”
“My favorite food is raw meat for breakfast with an egg on top!”
When did you first hear about Pikes Peak?
“In 1989 in a video called Speed and Beauty? There was two episodes about PPIHC, and then a second Speed and Beauty tape with Ari Vatanen in 1991, Climb Dance.“
Any Pikes Peak Heroes? “Michѐle Mouton, and Ari, obviously. Ari is also my Paris-Dakar hero because, beyond the fact that he is a phenomenal driver, he is also the most humble person I have ever met, and in that respect he is a true hero.”
Who has given you advice about racing on Pikes Peak? “Romain Dumas just said to me, “you know it’s not like how we do on racetracks, you need to keep a margin here…”
Favorite Track: “Macau Street Circuit because it’s freackin’ nuts. Best track on earth!” (Pictured: Jouanny racing in the Macau F3 World Cup)
Photos by: PPIHC Archives, Quarkus, Bruce Jouanny
ABOUT THE COLORADO SPRINGS AIRPORT
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Colorado Springs, CO — The Pikes Peak Hill Climb Museum Hall of Fame is pleased to announce four outstanding inductees for 2024, Ari Vatanen, Beck Bechtelheimer, Clint Vahsholtz and Ted Foltz.
Founded in 1997, the PPIHC Hall of Fame is committed to honoring and preserving the achievements of individuals and/or organizations who have left an indelible mark on the Race to the Clouds – whether they are competitors, organizers, officials, members of the press or volunteers. Anyone who shares a passion for speed and competition, in addition to a great respect for Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, and plays a role as an ambassador for this famous race is eligible for a Hall of Fame nomination. A new group of inductees is welcomed every other year.
“The level of achievement, knowledge and enthusiasm accumulated in this year’s inductees is incredible,” shared Lisa Haight, PPIHC Historian. “The depth of experience in this group spans decades, and we’re pleased to shine the spotlight on these very deserving individuals as we welcome them to the Hall of Fame.”
The Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place on June 20th in Colorado Springs.
Often referred simply as Beck, everyone knows the name, from drivers, to race fans, to the broader racing community. Bechtelheimer’s voice is known far and wide for his behind the microphone announcing and interviewing prowess. He called the action at tracks throughout Colorado for 49 years, and for many years was a fixture on the KRDO race day radio broadcast where he described the action in detail, with enthusiasm and by tapping into his unmatched insight into what was going on behind the wheel.
A local racing hero to many, Ted Foltz, was a two-time King of the Mountain, capturing his crowns in 1970, and repeating in 1980. Foltz was a second generation racer on the mountain, along with his brother, Dick. A third generation of motorcycle racers eagerly followed in their footsteps.
Foltz first entered the Open Wheel division in 1954 and raced sprint cars, open wheelers, including a Wells Coyote, through 1989. In the late 1970s, Foltz ventured into the Stock Car division in his Chevrolet Camaro.
Foltz was dedicated to preserving the heritage of the Race to the Clouds and worked diligently to help build the original Race Car Museum in Manitou Springs in 1989. His knowledge in sourcing and preparing exhibits for the museum along with his countless volunteer hours was invaluable.
The Vahsholtz name garners immediate respect on Pikes Peak, and for good reason. Patriarch, Leonard Vahsholtz carved his name into the PPIHC record books with his success on Pikes Peak from 1977 to 2008. Leonard’s son, Clint, began making a name for himself in 1992 racing in the Motorcycle Open Pro division winning three times in 4 years and setting two division records.
From 1996 through 2012, Clint raced in the Super Stock Car division notching 16 division wins and two division records. The father and son duo raced and won on Pikes Peak for years. In 2013 Clint moved to the Open Wheel division continuing his winning ways and was crowned King of the Mountain in 2020. No one has earned more division wins on Pikes Peak – Clint has collected 24 – making him the winningest driver in PPIHC history. Now, third generation Codie Vahsholtz is proving himself on the same mountain that built his family’s legacy.
Often asked by fans to strike the iconic pose of one hand shielding eyes from the sun and the other steering the powerful Peugeot, Finland’s Ari Vatanen is a motorsports legend. The 1988 art film, Climb Dance, immortalized Vatanen and allowed fans a glimpse of what it takes to conquer Pikes Peak.
The World Rally Champion took the mountain by storm in 1988 by winning the Rally Open division and setting an overall course record to become King of the Mountain. Since the release of the film, viewers worldwide have come know the excitement, sights and sounds of racing on Pikes Peak, and Vatanen has become an ambassador for the race he loves. He has been recognized in the FIA Hall of Fame and the Rally Hall of Fame. He has also authored an autobiography titled, Every Second Counts.
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 near the end 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
www.ppihc.org
Colorado Springs, CO — The 2024 Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo continues to receive entries for the 2024 Poster Art Contest. Artists of all ages and abilities may submit their poster art designs. “This is a unique opportunity for all local artists to combine their artistic talent with motorsports,” shared Melissa Eickhoff, Executive Director for the PPIHC. “We are excited about showcasing these creative designs.”
The theme for this year’s race is “Often Challenged. Rarely Conquered.” Entries may be submitted through April 8, 2024. The winner will be chosen in mid-April.
The artist selected will receive a $1,000 cash prize, two VIP tickets to the 2024 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb on June 23, and more. A “People’s Choice” award of $250 will be chosen following a fan vote on PPIHC social media. “Honorable Mention” submissions will also be announced.
Colorado artist, Patricia Samora, submitted the winning design in 2023, titled “Generations”.
Colorado Springs, CO — In anticipation of the 102nd Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, and in celebration of International Women’s Day, meet the five women challenging Pikes Peak in June. Three experienced PPIHC drivers will be joined by two first-timers on America’s Mountain this summer.
Melissa Eickhoff, PPIHC Executive Director, appreciates all roles women play in the motorsports arena, including the PPIHC administrative offices. “Our staff of five is comprised of three women, Alex Urban, our event manager and competitor liaison, Lisa Haight, our communication manager and historian, and myself. Beyond that, we are pleased to have Marla Wiseman, our event registrar in that role as she brings more than 30 years of experience. We are also fortunate to have many competent and knowledgeable women on the mountain during race activities, like Alyssa Bush in race control. We truly celebrate every role women play, from our safety workers and race officials, to our Board members and volunteers.”
Kathryn Mead
Kathryn Mead of Santa Fe, NM, has raced on America’s Mountain for the past four years, and is slated to make her fifth appearance in June. Mead initially entered the Porsche Pikes Peak Trophy by Yokohama division in 2020 in her 2019 Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport wrapped with a bold livery she designed. She finished third in the one-make division and was awarded 2020 Rookie of the Year honors. In 2020, she was the sole woman entered in the race. She returned to the same division in 2021 and again, claimed third place.
Mead moved to the Time Attack 1 division in 2022 and 2023 and set a personal best time in 2023 of 10:53.074. She is currently the fastest woman on four wheels to ever race on Pikes Peak, edging out the 2018 time set by Belgium’s Vanina Ickx of 10:54.901.
In 2024, Mead returns to the Time Attack 1 division in her eye-catching #50 Porsche Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport.
Laura Hayes
Laura Hayes of Greenville, SC returns for her third year of competition on Pikes Peak. She first experienced the 156 turns in 2020 when she was asked by BMW to drive their M8 Competition Coupe, leading the post-race Parade of Champions from the summit back to the Start Line. She returned to race a BMW M2 Competition in the Time Attack 1 division in 2021 and 2022. In both events, all competitors’ efforts were hampered by adverse weather, leaving many, including Hayes, with unfinished business on the mountain.
Hayes has entered a 2022 Toyota Supra GT4 (pictured below) in the inaugural Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy by Yokohama division and looks forward to clear skies and a strong performance. Hayes offered words of encouragement to other women interested in building a career in motorsports, “My life has changed since racing Pikes Peak and it’s all because I took a chance on myself. Do it. You won’t regret it.”
Loni Unser
Sun Valley, Idaho’s Loni Unser, of the famed Unser racing family, first raced on Pikes Peak in 2022 in the Porsche Pikes Peak Trophy by Yokohama division finishing in second place. She returned in 2023 driving for Acura in their 2023 Integra. The unique livery, a nod to their “Chiaki’s Journey” anime film series caught the attention of fans around the world. Unser recorded her personal best time of 11:34.709 in the Acura model in the Exhibition division.
She is scheduled to race the BBI-built and prepped 2015 Porsche GT3 Turbo Cup (pictured below at the 2024 Amelia Concours) in the Pikes Peak Open division in 2024. Unser shared advice for women interested in pursing a career in motorsports, “Work hard, and don’t be afraid of being uncomfortable. Nothing good comes from staying in your comfort zone.”
Mary Barker
Mary Barker of Hendersonville, NC will take her first run up the mountain in 2024 in her 2000 Subaru Impreza GC8 in the Unlimited division. Barker has battled cancer for the past year and looks forward to getting back to Colorado and taking on the 14,115′ summit.
In 2023, Barker experienced the race as a crew member for her fiancé, Kendall Samuel, and will compete in the car he drove (pictured below). Samuel is also returning to Pikes Peak this year in his like-model Subaru GC8.
Ryan Cheek
Ryan Cheek also hails from North Carolina and has entered a 2021 American X Kart in the Open Wheel division. She has competed in NASA, SCCA and hill climb events. The X Kart was last raced on Pikes Peak by Johan Schwartz in 2021 in the Exhibition division (pictured below).
Cheek and her team raise awareness of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), or Lou Gehrig’s disease, by Racing for ALS in honor of her father. Look for her to make her mark on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain in June.
102nd Running of the Race to the Clouds
Sunday, June 23, 2024
Lisa Haight, Communications Manager / Historian
Pikes Peak International Hill Climb
(719) 685-4400
Colorado Springs, CO — The storied history of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, was on display recently at the Amelia Concours d’Elegance, known in concours circles simply as The Amelia. One of the most spectacular and crowd pleasing entries was the #16 Broadmoor Special, known since its early racing days on Pikes Peak as “The Yellow Devil”.
The 1918 Pierce Arrow, one of several models owned by Spencer Penrose, founder of the PPIHC, was converted to a race car to challenge the 156 turns and driven by Harry McMillin in 1922 and 1926, and by Angelo Cimino from 1927 through 1932. The best time for the Yellow Devil was in 1932 when it finished in 19:59.9. It’s remarkable that this race car reached the summit every year it raced on Pikes Peak.
The color, “Coach Yellow” was a special mix made for Mr. Penrose. Other notable features of the car include it’s 4,300lb weight, and the fact that it was entirely stock when it raced, with the exception of three carburetors. It made 150 horsepower and rode on wooden wheels.
Former competitor and PPIHC Hall of Famer, Frank Peterson, along with his wife, Kaye and two generations of his family restored the car to running condition in his Lakewood Manufacturing machine shop near Denver. The project was completed in time for the car to be part of the 100th Anniversary celebration in 2016 – the race Mr. Penrose launched a century before.
The award-winning car is on exhibit in Colorado Springs at Penrose Heritage Museum.
The Amelia, based in Amelia Island, Florida was created by the public relations team at the Amelia Island Ritz-Carlton and Bill Warner, a Jacksonville, FL native and successful automotive photographer, journalist and driver. Hagerty acquired the prestigious brand in 2021. The March event marked the 29th year of this premier automotive showcase.
Matt Ordendac, Vice Chairman for the Hagerty Concours, shared, “To host this Pikes Peak Class was a labor of love and a dream come true. The all-star cast, including Jeff Zwart, Fred Veitch and David Donohue who shared their personal experiences made it so special and relatable.”
For the first time, a Cars of Pikes Peak class was featured at The Amelia, preceded by a well-attended panel discussion and film night moderated by PPIHC competitor, Ray Evernham. Jeff Zwart, PPIHC Hall of Famer, screened several short films that creatively told the unique story of racing on America’s Mountain, including the classic Climb Dance with Ari Vatanen behind the wheel of a Peugeot, Ken Block’s Climbkhana, which Zwart co-directed, and the teaser for the Race to the Clouds – 100 Years in the Making documentary film.
Seven-time PPIHC competitor, David Donohue, and competitor and PPIHC Board Chairman, Fred Veitch, rounded out the panel sharing stories and insight into what has drawn competitors from around the world to race to the 14,115′ summit of Pikes Peak year after year.
The Yellow Devil was awarded the Hagerty Drivers Foundation Automotive Heritage Award. PPIHC Race Director, Randy Ruyle and Board Chairman, Fred Veitch, dressed in vintage attire, accepted the trophy. “Amelia was a rare opportunity to present the Yellow Devil and a handful of winning Pikes Peak cars to a vast and diverse group of automotive enthusiasts,” explained Fred Veitch. “Many were surprised and delighted to learn not only does Penrose’s car still exist, but that it runs and was at The Amelia.”
The Best in Class award was bestowed on the Speedway Chevrolet, courtesy of the Museum of American Speed. Robby Unser drove the car to an Open Wheel division record of 10:05.85 in 1994. “Everyone here at the Museum of American Speed was ecstatic to learn that our record-setting ‘Winged Wonder’ was chosen as Best in Class at The Amelia. The 1994 Robbie Unser Pikes Peak Open Wheel Racer signifies an important era in our history when racing on Sunday really equated to selling parts on Monday,” explained Tim Matthews, Museum Curator. “Setting the record in 1994 not only signifies a great triumph for racing endeavors, it highlights a relationship we have had with the Unser family dating back nearly 40 years. The Unser family is one of the legendary families in automotive racing history and are excited about our recent merger with the Unser Racing Museum so we can continue telling their story of winning for generations to come, like we did at Amelia.”
From 2017 through 2019, Peter Cunningham raced the Acura TLX GT on Pikes Peak and won the Pikes Peak Open division every time. His best time was in 2019 when he clocked a 09:24.433 for a division record. The Acura was honored with this Amelia Class Award.
Ray Evernham’s 1936 Chevrolet Sedan “The Ghost” also received an Amelia Class Award. Evernham entered his first PPIHC in 2019 easily capturing a win in the Exhibition division in 10:11.334.
The #59 Porsche GT2 RS Clubsport, in this Brumos Racing livery, won the Time Attack 1 division on Pikes Peak for the past two years.
Driver, David Donohue explained, “This was my first time at Amelia and it was great to see so many Pikes Peak friends before June. Seeing the Broadmoor Special alongside Robby Unser’s open wheel car and our Brumos Porsche really highlighted the diversity and creativity found at the Peak.”
The immediately recognizable Audi Sport Quattro driven to victory on Pikes Peak in 1985 was also among the entries. France’s Michele Mouton set a course record of 11:25.39 on Pikes Peak in the Rally division, making her the overall winner and only Queen of the Mountain.
Layne Schranz presented his 2016 Chevrolet Camaro SS. Schranz, a second-generation racer on Pikes Peak competed for 29 years, first on a quad, and later in the Stock Car and Pikes Peak Open divisions. Schranz captured multiple division titles. His best time on the mountain was a 09:40.630 set in this car in 2019 in the Pikes Peak Open division.
Mobil 1 and BBI gave a sneak peak of the #92 Porsche that fourth-generation Loni Unser will drive in the 2024 PPIHC. Unser is set to compete in the Pikes Peak Open division in this 2015 Porsche GT3 Turbo Cup.
Lisa Haight, Communications Manager / Historian
Pikes Peak International Hill Climb
(719) 685-4400
Colorado Springs, CO — The media credential application process has opened for the 2024 Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo.
Please review the 2024 Media Guide prior to applying to determine eligibility for Official Race Media or Special Access Media credentials.
In 2023, we credentialed nearly 270 photographers, videographers, broadcasters and journalists from 22 countries. We look forward to once again welcoming the media to Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain for the 102nd Running of the Race to the Clouds.
Lisa Haight, Communications Manager / Historian
Pikes Peak International Hill Climb
(719) 685-4400
We are shifting into high gear in preparation for the 2024 Race to the Clouds as we eagerly wait to welcome sponsors, fans and race teams and media from around the world.
As part of our effort to shine the spotlight on our brand partners, we offer a contingency program. Contingency is a great way to place your brand with competitors, showcase your logo to race fans, and/or support an award with cash and product. And we’re here to help customize a program that best meets your objectives.
Let us hear from you about how you’d like to be a part of this exciting opportunity for the 102nd Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo. We’d like to have all programs in place by April 1.
From the snowy summit of America’s Mountain at 14,115’,
Melissa Eickhoff, Executive Director
Pikes Peak International Hill Climb
(719) 685-4400
Colorado Springs, CO – Race fans will flock to Colorado Springs in June to witness the 102nd Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo. Motorsport competition on Pikes Peak dates back to 1916 and its popularity has increased annually.
The Pikes Peak Region has been a tourist destination from its early days. The mild climate, blue skies and natural beauty draw visitors looking for adventure and relaxation. If you’re planning to visit Colorado Springs for the Race to the Clouds, be sure to check out some of our favorite spots!
VISIT DOWNTOWN COLORADO SPRINGS FOR FAN FEST
Fan Fest presented by Toyo Tires is the largest and most popular street festival in Downtown Colorado Springs. This free, family-friendly street party is packed with Pikes Peak International Hill Climb drivers and their racecars, including the Fast 15 qualifiers, presented by OPTIMA Batteries. It’s the best place ever to get autographs from and pictures with your favorites.
Take time to explore the shops, find great Colorado souvenirs, grab a bite or a brew, and enjoy all the outdoor artwork. A stop at the US Olympic & Paralympic Museum is a must!
Check out all the events in Colorado Springs.
PENROSE HERITAGE MUSEUM
Immerse yourself in over a century of racing on Pikes Peak at Penrose Heritage Museum. A tribute to Spencer and Julie Penrose, this free museum showcases not only racing history, but vintage carriages and more. Mr. Penrose built the Pikes Peak Highway, created the famous race and owned The Broadmoor Hotel. As a philanthropist, Penrose left a legacy through El Pomar Foundation that has enhanced, encouraged and promoted the current and future well-being of the people of Colorado.
PIKES PEAK – AMERICA’S MOUNTAIN
Want to drive the same road that racers have been climbing for more than 100 years? Visit Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain and drive the 20 miles to the Summit. Along the way, you’ll pass the race Start Line, just 7 miles past the entry Gateway. Look for the long straightaway at Halfway Picnic Grounds where race day speeds easily exceed 100 mph. (Remember, these speeds are for racers only…others must drive at the posted speed limit.) Stop in at historic Glen Cove Inn and then get ready to travel above the treetops as you come to Devils Playground. The view from the Summit Visitor Center will take your breath away…or maybe it’s the 14,115′ elevation…or a combination of both.
PIKES PEAK COG RAILWAY
The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway is the most unique way to view the grandeur of Pikes Peak. Established in 1891, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway has been a visitor favorite for more than 100 years. Visitors will experience an 8,000′ elevation gain through four climate zones on new state-of-the art trains. Learn how this engineering marvel pulls itself up the mountain on the rack rail. Watch for wildlife including moose, bear, bighorn sheep and the comical yellow-bellied marmot. Sit back and enjoy the scenery on the highest cog railway in the world. (P.S. Don’t forget your camera!)
OVERDRIVE RACEWAY
Enjoy some time behind the wheel at Overdrive Raceway, a two-story, two track, indoor karting venue. Grab a bite, watch the latest sports, join a racing league or schedule a corporate or team-building event.
MANITOU SPRINGS
Take some time to discover Manitou Springs at the foot of Pikes Peak. Dozens of shops, great restaurants, and fun for the whole family! Everyone will love the Penny Arcade and the famous Patsy’s Candies. Ready to conquer the mountain? Start with the Manitou Incline and then conquer Barr Trail, (not for beginners), which leads to the Summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain.
WOODLAND PARK
Travel a bit further west to the city of Woodland Park, gateway to the mountains and explore the great outdoors by hiking, mountain biking and fishing at Rampart Reservoir. It may seem unlikely to find dinosaurs in the mountain, but they’re on display at The Dinosaur Resource Center. Visit Cripple Creek and the historic gold mining district. Museums, dining and casino action await you.
You’ve got to get to Colorado Springs to start enjoying all it has to offer. Travel with ease via the Colorado Springs Airport and experience the speed and convenience of a small airport, making your journey memorable from start to finish. Your adventure begins here at the Colorado Springs Airport. For more information visit FlyCOS.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 near the end 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
(719) 685-4400
