Race News Archives - Page 4 of 32 - Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

Powerful Unlimited and Popular Time Attack 1 Divisions

Colorado Springs, Colorado — The 103rd Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, follows in the footsteps of recent editions with a large and impressive field of rookies. This year, the first-timers spread across four of the six divisions, with 21 racers in total set to ascend the mountain for the first time. Here’s a look at drivers in the Unlimited and Time Attack 1 divisions hoping to take the checkered flag at the summit on Race Day.

UNLIMITED DIVISION

The allure of Pikes Peak attracts some of the top hill climb drivers in the world.Diego Degasperi aims to become the latest European driver to cross the pond and go for an overall victory. The Italian has raced a mix of prototype, formula, and rally cars in similar events around the world, and comes off a successful 2024 season with multiple victories and even more podiums.

After a late switch to his entry, Danny Aitken will be bringing a familiar machine hoping to “Shake and Bake” at Pikes Peak in his first attempt. He’s taken over the 2016 Chevrolet SS that Layne Schranz raced, most recently in 2022, with a livery tribute to memorable moments from Talladega Nights.

Kyle Wilder brings an extensive history of hill climb, track day, and other road racing experience to Pikes Peak in his 2019 Chevrolet Camaro SS 1LE. Last September, he topped his class at the Virginia City Hillclimb. As an active police officer, he has also served as the West Coast organizer of Racing for ALS, in honor of his former partner, who passed away from the disease.

Green Beret Racing driver, Eli Olivas, will race for a larger purpose than himself in his debut this year. Olivas, who has 10 years of military service to his name, carries the names of his fallen comrades inscribed on his 2024 Superlite Aero GM Supercharged LT5, which has been named “The Mourning Star” in their honor.

Eric Moineau will bring the Caterham brand to Pikes Peak with a 2019 Roadsport Championship Sevens3. Moineau is a regular competitor in the Caterham single-make series in France. He has also competed in Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique, Tour de Corse Historic Rally and the Dakar Classic.

TIME ATTACK 1

After attending last year’s event and even waving the green flag on race day, Lance Fenderson will get behind the wheel this year in a 2020 BMW M2. After paralysis temporarily halted his racing career at just 19 years old, Fenderson has returned to the cockpit, with hand and breath controls, to take on the 156 turns on Pikes Peak.

Damien Bradley’s association with the Subaru Legacy goes back well over a decade, and extends to Pikes Peak for 2025. Last year, the car became the fastest closed-top vehicle to ever reach the top of the Shelsley Walsh Speed Hillclimb, the oldest racing venue in the world still contested on its original course.

Ludovic Gherardi has taken part in some of motorsport’s most iconic events, including a finish in this year’s Dakar Rally. He’ll compete at Pikes Peak for the first time with the support of Romain Dumas in a 2011 Porsche 911 GT3 RS.

Wush Racing’s Shilun Wu, who boasts extensive experience in series like Global Time Attack and Super Lap Battle, will head to the mountain for the first time in a 2012 Ford Mustang. Wu joins many of the same competitors he’s faced off against in those events.

Ernesto Ramirez holds the Global Time Attack Ascend class AWD record, which he set at Pikes Peak International Raceway last summer. Now, the Destroyer Racing Mitsubishi Evo trades in one local venue for another as it looks to ascend the mountain for the first time.

Stay Tuned! Rookies in the Pikes Peak Open and GT4 Pikes Peak Trophy by Yokohama divisions make their debut tomorrow.

Photos by: Rupert Berrington, Josh Hildenbrand, Nathan Leach-Proffer, Joel Yust

By Chris Leone, PPIHC Contributor

Contact:
(719) 685-4400
www.ppihc.org

MOUTON, ST. JAMES, UNSER HEADLINE WIMNA PANEL IN COLORADO SPRINGS JUNE 20

Colorado Springs, CO — The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is pleased to announce the return of Women in Motorsports North America (WIMNA) as they celebrate women competitors on the mountain – past and present.

Seating is limited to 100 and reservations are required.

ABOUT WIMNA

Women in Motorsports North America is a dynamic community of women and men united in driving opportunities for women across every discipline of motorsport—by Advancing careers, Connecting individuals and organizations, and Enabling growth through mentorship, advocacy, and access. Together, we’re fueling the future of the motorsports industry.

GRAB PPIHC TICKETS NOW AND RESERVE LODGING TODAY FOR BEST RATES

Colorado Springs, CO — If you’ve been waiting to buy your tickets to The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, and booking race week accommodations, now is the perfect time! Tickets are selling fast and our lodging partners have a limited number of rooms available. Don’t miss your chance to attend the 103rd Running of the Race to the Clouds on June 22.

Guests will experience the best of the best at The Broadmoor. Established in 1918 by Spencer Penrose, who we have to thank for starting the Pikes Peak Hill Climb, this upscale resort offers only the finest in guest rooms, dining, amenities and unique visitor experiences.

AN UPSCALE DOWNTOWN VIBE

As the Official Media Host Hotels, SpringHill Suites by Marriott and Element by Westin, are eager to welcome not only those covering the 103rd Running of the PPIHC, but competitors, teams and fans. Lumen8, their award-winning rooftop restaurant offers vibrant cocktails and eats, not to mention views for miles.

ALL AMENITIES AND EASY ACCESS

Best Western PLUS Fillmore Inn located conveniently at Fillmore and I-25 gets you close to the mountain. Within walking distance to several restaurants, and boasting an on-site pizza kitchen, and complementary full hot breakfast buffet, guests can enjoy a great meal any time of day.

CLOSE TO EVERYTHING YOU NEED

With a fitness center, swimming pool, complimentary continental breakfast and free parking, plus a central Colorado Springs location, Towneplace Suites Marriott is the perfect family vacation destination. These casual extended-stay rooms give you space to relax, Colorado style!

A MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE AT THE FOOT OF PIKES PEAK

Whether you’re tent camping, looking for a cozy cabin, or bringing your RV, you’ve found the perfect place to call home. Located west of Colorado Springs, Lone Duck Campground offers a swimming pool, fishing pond, and a mountain stream. Plus, it’s just a five minute drive to the Gateway on Pikes Peak.

Use code HillClimb2025 for a special discount!

PPIHC REVEALS WINNING POSTER ART SUBMISSION

Colorado Springs, CO — The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, is pleased to announce the winning entry for the 2025 Poster Art Contest. The theme “156 Turns to Glory” gave artists a direction as they sought to portray their vision in unique ways and styles.

“This is our third annual art contest that was started as part of our Tom Osborne Community Outreach efforts,” shared PPIHC CEO Melissa Eickhoff. “It’s one of the many activations we do to honor his contribution to the community. The theme proved popular with local artists, as we received nearly two dozen submissions, so choosing one overall winner was no easy task. We’re pleased to offer free copies of the winning poster at Fan Fest, as well as the $1,000 cash prize to the artist.”

THE WINNER – “MOUTON CLIMBER”

Tim Cribbs of Colorado Springs and his digital piece entitled “Mouton Climber”was selected as the 2025 winner. He shared, “To address this year’s theme, “156 Turns to Glory,” I put the twisting course in the foreground—weaving the course throughout the elements of the artwork, the same way drivers must weave through the track in turn.”

“My goal was to capture the raw aggression and determination of the drivers as they battle for control of both the track and their cars. No place is this more apparent than in the tight corners of Pikes Peak, where the momentum of the car comes into direct conflict with the will of the driver.

“The poster draws its color palette from the Colorado flag, drawing from its shades of blue, red, and white. I took inspiration from the action-packed ‘90s Monte Carlo Rally posters and the art of Initial D, embracing stylized motion and effects to convey movement and speed. The piece was created using a blend of cell-shaded 3D modeling but mostly hours upon hours of traditional stylus and tablet drawing.

“I chose Michèle Mouton and her Audi Quattro as my subjects, probably the most iconic car and driver combination in Pikes Peak’s long history. Her historic victory in ‘85 marked a turning point, raising the stakes and transforming the event into a truly international battle for glory.

“I was drawn to cars from an early age. There was nothing better than the emergence of an iconic combination of a car and its driver – a machine being imbued with the personality of and becoming inseparable from the legacy of its driver; Schumacher and his Ferraris, Dale’s Monte Carlo, McRae’s Impreza, and of course, Michèle’s Quattro.

“To me, the design of a car is as much an art as it’s a conduit for performance. This poster was my way of celebrating that they can be both; elegantly beautiful and able to handle the brutal competition of the climb.

“A Colorado Springs resident, I have the pleasure of seeing the majesty of Pikes Peak nearly every day. Whether it’s on the commute home or after hiking to my favorite overlook at Palmer Park, the view never gets old. Having moved to the Springs last year to work for a local Springs company, this will be my first time being able to see the Hill Climb in person after years of only ever being able to tune in online.

“Entering this contest has made the impending, long-awaited experience all the more meaningful. Allowing me to also partake in the thrill of the chase, racing against time, and testing my limits.”

You can get your own free copy of the winning poster signed by Tim Cribbs at Fan Fest on June 20 in downtown Colorado Springs. Limited quantities will be available, so stop by the PPIHC info booth early!

VOTE FOR THE PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNER!

Starting tomorrow, May 7 at 12 PM MT, fans may vote for their favorite design from the six honorable mention posters on PPIHC Social Media.

The winning People’s Choice artist will receive a $250 award.

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

Colorado Springs, CO — The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, will welcome seven-time Indy 500 driver, Lyn St. James as Grand Marshal for the 103rd running in June.

“We are absolutely honored to welcome Lyn St. James as our Grand Marshal for the 103rd running,” said PPIHC CEO Melissa Eickhoff. “Lyn’s remarkable career and unwavering dedication to the sport make her a perfect fit for this historic event. Her achievements continue to pave the way for future generations, and we know she will be a fantastic ambassador for the Pikes Peak Hill Climb. I have watched Lyn take a hands-on approach to promoting women in racing, often investing herself in their future. And to have her here in the same year as we celebrate Michele Mouton’s achievements, is truly epic.”

Lyn St. James, Co-Founder/President of Women in Motorsports North America, is known as a legendary race car driver, author, mentor, and motivational speaker.

Named one of the “Top 100 Female Athletes of the 20th Century” by Sports Illustrated, she set 21 national and international speed records and was a seven-time competitor in the world’s largest sporting event – the Indianapolis 500 – earning Rookie of the Year honors in 1992.

“I’m so honored and excited to be the Grand Marshal for the 103rd Pikes Peak International Hill Climb,” shared St. James. “I’ve been a huge fan ever since I watched Michèle Mouton make history with her win on this mountain in 1985. She inspired me so much when I was seeking my race wins for Ford Racing in the IMSA Series. In fact, I had my first professional victories that same year.”

St. James concluded, “And to be able to celebrate Michèle Mouton’s induction to the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Hall of Fame is such an added and meaningful bonus.”

She has competed all over the world, including twice at the 24 Hours of LeMans (1989, 91) with victories at the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona, 12 Hours of Sebring, Watkins Glen, Road America, and Nürburgring.

Most recently St. James was announced as an inductee into the National Motorsports Press Association Hall of Fame, and has been inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame, the Sebring Hall of Fame, the Florida Sports Hall of Fame, was the 2022 Amelia Island Concours Honoree, is the recipient of the prestigious “Spirit of Ford” award, the “Guiding Woman in Sports Award”, the “Office Depot Visionary Sportswoman of the Year” and was named on Automotive News list of the Top 100 Women in the Automotive Industry.

She is in demand as a speaker on women’s issues, gender equality, and diversity. She serves on the board of ACCUS (Automobile Competition Committee of the United States) and on their Diversity and Inclusion Task Force.

St. James has authored two books: “Lyn St. James, An Incredible Journey” and “Oh By the Way”, and is a former President of the Women’s Sports Foundation.

She is passionate about mentoring drivers in the sport of auto racing as well as women in the automotive and motorsports fields.

2025 PPIHC TO BE BROADCAST LIVE ON RACER NETWORK JUNE 22

Colorado Springs, CO — For the first time in the 103-year history of racing on America’s Mountain, The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, will air in its entirety on the cable channel RACER Network, also available on the RACER+ streaming app, delivering the most complete and immersive PPIHC viewing experience ever offered to fans.

In a recent acquisition, MAVTV has been rebranded RACER Network and is rolling out 24/7 motorsports action across all platforms to create the most followed and diverse motorsports media hub in North America.

Following the success of the 4-part highlight series that captured the heart and soul of the 2024 Race to the Clouds, fans can look forward to more live racing action and excitement under the RACER banner. The television network and recently launched RACER+ app will combine to broadcast 300+ live races in 2025, including the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb on June 22.

RACER Networks has blocked seven hours of coverage for the PPIHC live broadcast and will again produce highlight episodes post-race. Along with their robust marketing plan, this deal represents significant growth for PPIHC and ease of access for fans around the world.

In addition to the live broadcast, the PPIHC will benefit from coverage across the RACER ecosystem, amplifying the event through long-forms, behind-the-scenes storytelling, and highlights. This combined reach across broadcast, digital, and more will offer an unprecedented spotlight on the whole event — capturing the emotion, innovation, and grit of the mountain for both core fans and new audiences alike.

ABOUT RACER NETWORK
RACER Network, formerly MAVTV, is the premier motorsports broadcast and digital platform dedicated exclusively to delivering the most comprehensive motorsports and automotive enthusiast content across cable TV, FAST channels and streaming. With a passion for the culture at its core, RACERNetwork offers an unparalleled lineup of live racing, documentary series, news and analysis, and car culture shows high-quality original programming to millions of fans worldwide.

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.

MICHÉLE MOUTON 2025 INDUCTEE

PIKES PEAK HILL CLIMB HALL OF FAME

CELEBRATING HER RECORD-BREAKING RUN IN THE ICONIC AUDI QUATTRO

Colorado Springs, CO — The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, is proud to announce the induction of the legendary Michèle Mouton into the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Hall of Fame. This prestigious honor will be bestowed upon Mouton during the June 2025 race week, celebrating her remarkable achievements on America’s Mountain.

Michèle Mouton’s name is synonymous with courage, skill, and groundbreaking success in motorsport. Her 1985 overall victory on the iconic mountain stands as a testament to her extraordinary talent and unwavering determination. Driving an Audi Sport Quattro, she not only won the event but also set a new course record, a feat that solidified her place in the history of the “Race to the Clouds.”

MOUTON‘S RACING CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

1984 – Rally Open division winner in her first race on the mountain
1985 – Set a new overall record of 11:25.39 on the twisting gravel course, showcasing her exceptional driving prowess
Became the first and only woman to earn PPIHC’s prestigious moniker “King of the Mountain”

World Rally Championship (WRC)

Four WRC victories, marking her as one of the most successful female rally drivers of all time
Runner-up in the 1982 WRC drivers’ championship
Demonstrated remarkable skill and consistency in some of the world’s most challenging rallies

Other Notable Achievements

Winner of the 1986 German Rally Championship
Victory in the 1978 Tour de France Automobile
Winner in 24 Hours of Le Mans in Prototype 2L category
Co-founder of the Race of Champions
Received Legion of Honor in France in 2011
First president of the FIA’s Women in Motorsport Commission

“Michèle Mouton‘s impact on the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and motorsport as a whole is immeasurable,” said Melissa Eickhoff, CEO of the PPIHC.

“Her 1985 victory was an iconic moment in the history of our race. Her passion for rallying, and her role as a pioneer for women in motorsport, have inspired countless competitors and aspiring motorsport professionals. This induction to our Hall of Fame is well-deserved recognition of Michѐle’s extraordinary achievements. The Pikes Peak Hill Climb family is excited to welcome her back and celebrate.”

The induction ceremony will take place during race week in June 2025, providing fans and fellow racers the opportunity to celebrate Mouton’s remarkable career.

The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is honored to welcome Michèle Mouton into its Hall of Fame, acknowledging her enduring legacy and her significant contribution to the history of the Race to the Clouds.

FIVE DRIVERS REVEALED FOR 2025 PPIHC PIKES PEAK GT4 TROPHY BY YOKOHAMA DIVISION

Colorado Springs, CO — The field of drivers for the 103rd Running of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, is set. The final five entries in the Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy by Yokohama division have been revealed. These entries include rookies, veterans and champions. Three manufacturers will vie for the win – Porsche, Aston Martin and Ford, all riding on spec Yokohama tires.

PORSCHE

Emelia Hartford of Los Angeles, CA is a custom car builder, YouTuber, social media influencer, podcaster and actress. She has SCCA and NHRA competition licenses. She has run at tracks across the country in Apex Driving, and Dream Racing events. Hartford is known for the “Phoenix” build, the world’s fastest Corvette C8, and her Nissan Z world record build.

She was featured in the film Gran Turismo, and has amassed 2.1 million Instagram followers.

She will compete in a 2022 Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport in her first race on Pikes Peak in June.

Tad Cusack first raced Pikes Peak on a motorcycle. In 2006 and 2007, Cusack raced his 2005 Honda CRF in the Supermoto division. In 2006, he clocked 13:16.932 for second place behind PPIHC Hall of Famer Greg Tracy. Cusack competed in RADICAL Cup North America races for three years.

He will compete in a 2024 Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport, and races out of Wimberley, TX. Cusack’s 2025 PPIHC Rookie designation signifies the first year he will compete on four wheels vs two.

Clint Vahsholtz returns to the mountain for his 31st run to the 14,115′ summit of America’s Mountain. He has more division wins on Pikes Peak than any other competitor; three in motorcycle divisions, and 21 behind the wheel of Ford products. Vahsholtz was King of the Mountain in 2020, and inducted to the PPIHC Hall of Fame in 2024.

A second generation racer out of Woodland Park, Colorado, Vahsholtz will compete in a Porsche for the first time. He will be racing a 2023 Porsche 718 GT4 RS Clubsport owned by PPIHC competitor, Robb Holland.

He will compete in a 2024 Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport, and races out of Wimberley, TX. Cusack’s 2025 PPIHC Rookie designation signifies the first year he will compete on four wheels vs two.

ASTON MARTIN

Steve Wetterau will present a turbocharged 2025 Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT4 Evo in his first assault on Pikes Peak. Racing out of Newport Beach, CA, Wetterau works for BBi Autosport as a development driver on the Type-99 Evo project. He has racing roots in Kart racing. He launched his 2025 racing season in the BMW M2 Cup at the Thermal Club.

This will be the first year an Aston Martin has raced on Pikes Peak, but Wetterau won’t be the only driver in the iconic brand. Paul Gerrard, a veteran on the mountain, will compete in a 2015 Aston Martin Vantage GT-Pikes Peak sporting #007 in the Unlimited division.

FORD

Cam Ingram, known for his Porsche passion, has raced three times on Pikes Peak in his Road Scholars-sponsored entries. He won the one-make Porsche Pikes Peak Trophy by Yokohama division in 2022, and placed second in 2021.

In a departure from his Porsche affiliation, he has switched to a 2024 Ford S650 Mustang GT4. Ingram, of Durham, NC, set a personal best time in 2023 in his 2016 Porsche GT3R, finishing in 10:43.476.

Could we see Ingram and Vahsholtz trading knowledge about the brands they’re known for? It’s highly possible, and one of the best things about racing on Pikes Peak – the camaraderie of the Pikes Peak ‘family.’

WITNESS THE 2025 RACE TO THE CLOUDS

EXTEND YOUR STAY TO EXPERIENCE COLORADO SPRINGS

Colorado Springs, CO — The 103rd Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, is right around the corner.

With 70 top drivers, including 2024 King of the Mountain, Romain Dumas, fourth-generation racer, Loni Unser, and 23 Colorado-based drivers, there are plenty of stories ready to unfold. Cheer on your favorite as you watch these drivers pursue glory at the 14,115′ pinnacle of America’s Mountain.

If this iconic motorsports event has been on your bucket list, 2025 is the year to make it happen. Tickets are going fast, so plan your getaway now, and be a part of the action and the excitement in June!

Beyond the Race to the Clouds, there is so much to love about visiting Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs and the surrounding region.

PIKES PEAK – AMERICA’S MOUNTAIN

Why do so many visitors come to Pikes Peak? The reasons vary with the seasons, but reaching the summit is spectacular any time of year. Skyler Rorabaugh, Manager at Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, shared some highlights and fun facts from the mountain in 2024:

Couples who said “I do” on the mountain: 22 (One tied the knot during PPIHC)

Top license plate sightings (other than Colorado): Texas, California, Florida

Estimated number of times a marmot has been called a ‘groundhog’ or ‘prairie dog’: 200,000 (Might not be accurate, but feels right.)

Snowy days on Pikes Peak in June: Five

Number of vehicles with hot brakes (registering 300+ degrees) in July: 6,127

Average lifespan of a donut after purchase: Under two minutes

Summit visitors who witnessed a spectacular sunrise at 14,115′: 731

CITY OF COLORADO SPRINGS

PARKS, RECREATION & CULTURAL SERVICES

“The annual Race to the Clouds on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain is a thrill we eagerly anticipate every year,” offered Britt Haley, Director of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services.

“Fan Fest brings our community downtown and offers spectators the unique opportunity to meet the drivers and get an up-close look at their racecars, creating excitement and energy as we honor this 103-year-old tradition. As drivers tackle the challenging turns and steep ascents of the Pikes Peak Highway, we celebrate their skills against the breathtaking backdrop of the majestic mountain. It’s a proud moment for the City of Colorado Springs, showcasing both our stunning landscapes and adventurous competitors who dare to conquer them.”

VISIT COS

“Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain is iconic for many reasons like the Cog Railway, the accessibility of the summit, and the famous high-altitude donuts,” said Doug Price, President and CEO of Visit Colorado Springs. “Every June, the Race to the Clouds reminds our visitors and locals just how special Pikes Peak is as they watch one of the greatest and oldest motorsports challenges in the country take place.”

PIKES PEAK REGION ATTRACTIONS

“We are blessed with an abundance of incredible geology here in the Pikes Peak Region, which creates an urban / wilderness blend not found anywhere else in the US,” shared PK McPherson, Executive Director, Pikes Peak Region Attractions.

“You can meet for brunch then hit a hiking trail within ten minutes, and completely escape the sounds of the city. You can drive the course for the second oldest car race in the country and stop to fish along the way. With Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, Broadmoor Seven Falls, and the Royal Gorge within an hour’s drive of each other, not to mention the incredible man-made attractions, we have something that will appeal to everyone.”

DOWNTOWN PARTNERSHIP

“Fan Fest Downtown is such a popular and well-loved way for people to celebrate the marvel that is the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb,” said Carrie Simison, Director of Marketing and Communications for the Downtown Partnership. “Everyone loves meeting the drivers, checking out the high-flying FMX show and getting together with thirty five thousand of their closest friends in a race-inspired block party held in the heart of Colorado Springs.”

“It’s awesome that the Hill Climb brings so many people Downtown for Fan Fest where they can discover all of the great restaurants, shops, and entertainment, and come back to all summer long,” Simison continued. “Downtown is the perfect place to enjoy patio dining, discover public art, and experience unique entertainment and events. Like Humphrey Bogart said in Casablanca, we hope this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship!”

COLORADO SPRINGS AIRPORT – COS

“As the Official Airport of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, COS is proud to serve as the gateway to Colorado’s stunning landscapes and premier events,” shared Aidan Ryan, Marketing and Communications Manager, Colorado Springs Airport.

“Our easy, convenient, and welcoming experience for visitors traveling to this iconic motorsports competition, is second to none. With the growth we’ve achieved, we continue to enhance the travel experience for our passengers.”

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 and Historian
Lisa@ppihc.org
(719) 685-4400
www.ppihc.org

Photo Credit: PPIHC – Larry Chen, Luis Garcia, Jason Zindroski.

Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, Visit COS, Downtown Partnership, City of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services.

PPIHC NOMINATED FOR USA TODAY’S 10BEST IN 2025 Best Motorsports Race

Colorado Springs, CO — The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, has been nominated for Best Motorsports Race, as part of USA TODAY 10BEST’s Readers’ Choice Awards.

Over the next four weeks, USA TODAY 10BEST readers will be voting on their favorites, once per day, until ballots close on Monday, April 28th at 11:59am EDT. The top 10 winners, as ranked by USA TODAY 10BEST readers, will be announced on Wednesday, May 7th at noon EDT. See all the nominations HERE.

Cast your vote for the PPIHC once daily!

Category: Race News