Category: Race News

2025 PPIHC DRIVER APPLICATION WINDOW CLOSES JANUARY 30 

Colorado Springs, Colorado — Preparations for The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, are well under way. The deadline* to submit an application to compete is Thursday, January 30. Don’t miss your green flag and get started on your application today!

APPLY HERE

Interested competitors and teams should direct inquiries to:

Alex Urban –  alex@ppihc.org
Director of Competition Services

or

Melissa Eickhoff – melissa@ppihc.org
CEO

*The deadline has been extended to April 11 only for drivers in the Pikes Peak GT4Trophy by Yokohama division.

PPIHC’S GT4 DIVISION ENTRY DEADLINE EXTENDED THROUGH APRIL 11

Colorado Springs, Colorado — The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, has announced the deadline for entries in the Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy by Yokohama division has been extended to April 11, 2025.

The popular GT4 division first ran on Pikes Peak in 2024 with three manufacturers represented, Toyota, Ford and Porsche. “Year one, we had to prove that balance of performance was possible at altitude – the course runs from 9,390’ to 14,115’. We really put our BoP Engineer, Marcus Haselgrove, to the test! We not only proved it, as qualifying and racing in the division was the closest of any division, but the top three qualified within a second of each other,” said CEO, Melissa Eickhoff. “And race day was just as exciting.”

She continued, “As we grow the GT4 division, we’re big believers that it is a natural entry point to racing on Pikes Peak. It can lessen the focus on the race car, it gives the driver mental space to learn the 156 turns of the course and for the team to tackle the brutal schedule and unique logistics. Not to mention, Pikes Peak Hill Climb is a racer bucket list item, and this division is the easiest way to check that box!”

“One of the biggest advantages of GT4 on Pikes Peak is that the cars are both very accessible and competitive,” shared Jim Jordan, motorsports consultant and PPIHC board member. “These cars are not only reliable, but fast, while being driver-friendly. Let’s say someone always wanted to do the Hill Climb but didn’t know how to do it, here is a turnkey car that, when well driven, could be in the top 15 fastest qualifiers. Competitors in Europe and the US can prepare to take on Pikes Peak in a much simpler way than they ever could before.”

“What an amazing class,” shared Portugal’s Nuno Caetano. “Cars are remarkably close together and can run competitive times up the mountain.”

“The fact that the packages are so established allows you to focus a lot more on your own driving than getting lost in constant set up changes.”

Pikes Peak works closely with SRO Global and participating manufacturers to maintain the turnkey ease of racing GT4. And to go a step further – many veteran racers and teams from other Pikes Peak divisions run GT4 programs in other race series – like Robb Holland and James Clay, and they have GT4 race cars ready to race Pikes Peak.

An advocate of bringing the GT4 division to Pikes Peak, Robb Holland was thrilled to race in the inaugural running. Holland shared, “It made the race on Pikes Peak in 2024 substantially easier as we weren’t working on issues with the car, or set up, as all of those things translated straight from everything we’ve done in SRO.”

For most race vehicles, preparing for Pikes Peak is a year-round process. Now, with the Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy by Yokohama division, that process can be just a few months.

“We’re committed to growing this race and making it accessible to racers around the world. The Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy by Yokohama is just one part of that commitment,” said Eickhoff.

“We proved the Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy by Yokohama division is one of the best places to race,” explained 2024 division winner, Laura Hayes. “If you want to be pushed to the limit, not only by the mountain but by your competitors, there is no better platform to test your skills.”

Interested competitors and teams should direct inquiries to:

Melissa Eickhoff, CEO – melissa@ppihc.org

LEARN MORE

PPIHC’S ANNUAL POSTER ART CONTEST LAUNCHES TODAY

RUNS THROUGH APRIL 15

Colorado Springs, Colorado — For the third consecutive year, The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, is calling all artists to submit their best interpretation of the annual race theme. This year’s concept, “156 Turns to Glory,” focuses on the course itself, allowing artists to interpret course history, design, and iconic locations paired with depictions of glory. Winning submissions from talented artists across the Pikes Peak Region will be featured on PPIHC’s international media platforms.

CALL FOR ENTRIES

Project Theme

156 Turns to Glory

Prize

Winning Artist receives $1000 cash prize + 2 VIP Race Day Tickets + 2 Invitations to VIP Reception, and will make an appearance at Fan Fest to autograph copies of their winning poster on Friday evening, June 20.

People’s Choice Winner receives $250.

Deadline for Submissions

April 15, 2025 (also known as World Art Day!)

Eligibility Requirements

  • Open to all ages
  • Professional, Amateur, and Student Submissions welcome
  • Artists must live in, or have very strong ties to, the Pikes Peak Region.
LEARN MORE AND SUBMIT ENTRIES HERE

MAKE THE PIKES PEAK HILL CLIMB YOUR 2025 SUMMER DESTINATION

Tickets, Travel Packages, and more

Colorado Springs, Colorado — With the dawn of a new year, it’s time for a new calendar. Be sure to mark yours for the 103rd Running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo on June 22. With a week’s worth of race-related activities to enjoy, there is something for everyone, from the family-friendly Tech Inspection and Fan Fest to early morning practice sessions and the unmatched race day experience.

Whether you plan to camp on the mountain overnight at one of the designated camping areas, take the popular Glen Cove Fan Bus from the base of the mountain, or try the new Devils Playground Fan Bus with your family and friends, you can bet on creating once in a lifetime memories.

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For those interested in an upscale experience, Sports and Entertainment Travel has curated a four-night package with five star accommodations, special event invitations, and behind the scenes tours.

explore travel package

It’s easy to book your travel directly into Colorado Springs. Top airlines offer direct or connecting flights to the Pikes Peak region via the Colorado Springs Airport – The Official Airport of the PPIHC.

COLORADO SPRINGS AIRPORT

PIKES PEAK HILL CLIMB ANNOUNCES RACE THEME FOR 2025

Colorado Springs, Colorado — The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, embraces a new theme for the 103rd Running of the Race to the Clouds – 156 Turns to Glory. A celebration of the tortuous, twisting and often punishing course itself, the concept explores the history behind some of the most iconic corners on the mountain.

Drivers who have completed the 12.42 mile journey to the summit share tales of their favorite and least favorite corners. Navigating well-known landmarks like Glen Cove, Devils Playground, and the infamous Bottomless Pit, is only part of the story. With more than 150 turns for competitors to memorize, the margin for error is extremely small, requiring driver precision and confidence in their vehicle.

Each curve, arc and bend in the road, though sometimes similar, is unique. Conquering them all to reach the summit and achieve the glory that brings takes commitment, nuance, and total focus.

Join us on the mountain on Sunday, June 22, 2025, to experience the action and see who’s fastest to conquer 156 turns and attain the ultimate glory of being crowned King of the Mountain.

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TICKETS FOR 2025 PIKES PEAK HILL CLIMB ON SALE NOW

Colorado Springs, Colorado — The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, presented by Gran Turismo, will celebrate the 103rd Running of the famed Race to the Clouds on Sunday, June 22, 2025. Tickets are on sale now, just in time for the holiday gift-giving season. Shop for yourself, or the race fan on your list!

A wide variety of tickets are available, from overnight camping permits in one of four spectator areas the night before the race, to early practice morning tickets, and race day tickets for one of seven areas. Choose Turn 1/Pits to witness opening ceremonies and see cars and drivers in the pits before their run. If you prefer watching the racecars blaze past you, check out Halfway Picnic Grounds, one of the fastest sections of the course.

Whether you need an individual ticket to see the race and check it off your bucket list, or a budget-friendly Family 6-Pack to treat the whole family, explore all ticketing options HERE.

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SPECTATOR GUIDE

NEW for 2025 – Devils Playground Fan Bus

Brand new this year – the Fan Bus Experience! Grab your friends, bring a cooler, a camp chair and your sunscreen, and enjoy a ride to the highest viewing area, Devils Playground.

This bus is being offered as part of a partnership with the US Forest Service as they initiate a tundra reclamation project at Devils Playground, limiting spectator parking.

Top reasons to climb aboard:

  • Convenient, free off-site parking
  • Stress-free ride up on the mountain
  • Get an extra hour of sleep
  • Share stories with fellow race fans
  • Complimentary race program

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND – Glen Cove Shuttle

Choose this option and travel in style. Park your car at the base of the mountain and enjoy a motorcoach ride to popular Glen Cove where you will see drivers pass this vantage point at high speed.

A complimentary race program is included.

Photo Credits: Larry Chen Photo, Jason Zindroski; Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain

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

THANK YOU TO ALL MILITARY VETERANS

Colorado Springs, Colorado — The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, is proud to honor our military veterans this Veterans Day. Whether a current or former race official, volunteer, race fan, board member, sponsor, driver or crew member, your service to the nation is appreciated.

As the second oldest auto race in the United States, we are built on tradition, dedication and performing at the highest level. The race has been run every year since 1916 with the exception of 1917-1919 and 1942-1945 when racing was halted during the two World Wars.

In 1942, Colorado Springs’ own US Army Garrison, Ft. Carson, at that time, Camp Carson, was established. Soldiers from the base have been some of the biggest fans of the Race to the Clouds.

Les Mulnix, a US Army Air Force recruiter, is pictured above at Glen Cove with third place finisher, Johnny Mauro, in 1948 in his Phil Kraft Special Alfa Romeo 308.

Mulnix was also photographed at the summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain with his recruiting sign the same year.

Cooperation and support from Ft. Carson for the Pikes Peak Hill Climb have included volunteer personnel in roles from radio communication to medical tents.

In 1950, a soldier is pictured monitoring the race from his position near Elk Park as Johnny Good races by.

Twin brothers, Frank and Nick Sanborn, former soldiers at Camp Carson, showcased their division-winning Oldsmobile Tornado in 1968 at the army post.

Shortly after SSG Talia Smith (first photo) of the US Army’s 4th Infantry Division Band honored America with the National Anthem, a convoy from the 10th Special Forces Group transported the checkered flags from start line to summit, delivering them to Derek Jordan, the finish line flagman.

Watch them on course at minute 6:30 on 2024’s Pikes Peak Live by Mobil 1.

Thank you for your service to our nation, our community and our historic event, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.

 

Photo Credits: PPIHC Archives; Larry Chen Photo, Larry Chen, Luis Garcia, Jason Zindroski; Alec White – (first photo)

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

2025 Pikes Peak Hill Climb Request for Invitation Now Open

Colorado Springs, Colorado — The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, is now accepting competitor applications for the 2025 PPIHC. The 103rd Running of the famed Race to the Clouds will take place on Sunday, June 22, 2025 on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain.

First contested in 1916, this invitation-only global motorsports event has lured elite competitors to challenge the 12.42-mile, 156-turn course, for more than a century. Drivers may submit a 2025 Request for Invitation through January 30, 2025.

Competitors for the 2025 event will be announced on February 6, 2025.

The 2025 Request for Invitation Timeline outlines deadlines within the applications process.

The 2025 PPIHC Rule Book details general competition and safety rules, as well as those specific to each division.

The 2025 Bulletin Book is updated as competition-specific information is released.

Refer back to the Competitor Corner, for these helpful resources and more.

 

apply here

FOUR PPIHC DRIVERS AND RIDERS ALONG WITH PHOTOJOURNALIST WELCOMED TO OFF-ROAD MOTORSPORTS HALL OF FAME

Colorado Springs, Colorado — The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, sends congratulations to the twelve inductees to the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame. We are particularly pleased to have four Pikes Peak Hill Climb competitors in this year’s class. The ceremony was held Sunday, November 3 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

KEN BLOCK

Ken Block made his racing debut on Pikes Peak in 2005 in the Rally Group N class with co-driver, Alex Gelsomino, finishing the class in 5th place with a time of 13:19.17. His highly anticipated return to competition on the mountain in 2022 had fans and media buzzing. Although a race week mechanical issue took him out of competition, his fans showed up in droves to welcome him to Fan Fest in Colorado Springs.

His wildly popular short film, Climbkhana, brought worldwide attention to the 156 turns on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain as Block showcased his masterful drifting style.

Block’s legacy in motorsports, in business, and a variety of creative endeavors continues to inspire. Through the 43 Institute, founded in his memory, Block’s ideals continue to provide pathways and resources for underserved, highly driven ‘motivated misfits’ whose aspirations lie in action sports, motorsports, and the creative arts.

JIMMY LEWIS

In 2000, Jimmy Lewis joined a team of Italians who wanted to showcase what their scooter, yes, scooter, could do on the mountain. The factory team brought three 2000 Gilera Runners to challenge the 12.42-mile course to the 14,115’ summit. Lewis competed in the 250cc Motorcycle division aboard his #41 Gilera, alongside teammates Cristian Matte, #64, and Maurizio Virtuani, #55, on like models. He reached the top, despite the thin air, clocking a time of 17:46.94. (Gilera scooters are pictured alongside #10, Greg Adams aboard his Kawasaki , also competing in the 250cc division.)

ROD MILLEN

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

A Toyota Celica was next for Millen and, in 1994, his win in the Unlimited division and new course record of 10:04.060 would make headlines in the racing world. As one of Pikes Peak’s most popular heroes, he is perhaps best known for this record. Set on the all-gravel course, it will never be broken as the course was fully paved in 2012.

Four consecutive King of the Mountain wins, all behind the wheel of a Toyota, were recorded from 1996 through 1999, including two in a Toyota Tacoma. Millen was inducted to the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Museum Hall of Fame in 2016 during the 100th Anniversary celebration and returned to Pikes Peak for the 100th Running of the Race to the Clouds in 2022 bringing back the fan-favorite Tacoma. He finished third in the Unlimited division, 8th overall, and despite dismal racing conditions, clocked a time of 11:06.152.

MIKE PEARLMAN

In 1997, in celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the Race to the Clouds, Mike Pearlman entered his Triumph in the Vintage Motorcycle division. He went on to compete on Pikes Peak for nearly a decade, experiencing the course as it transitioned from a gravel surface to pavement in some sections.

His best time was in 2004 on his Triumph when he finished in 15:28.92 for third in the Vintage division.

During his racing career on Pikes Peak, Pearlman achieved four podium finishes.

JOHN RETTIE

John Rettie was honored as a media pioneer. From Dakar to the Sonora Rally, the all-female Rally Jameel in Saudi Arabia, to Greece, to the Hong Kong to Beijing Rally, he was always there to compete, capture the action, or both!

Rettie has been hailed as a volunteer, a racing enthusiast and supporter, and a photographer. He shared stories of the off-road industry from the late 1960s through the 2022.

On assignment for Road & Track magazine, he covered the Pikes Peak Hill Climb in 2012 and 2013.

 

Photo Credits: Larry Chen; PPIHC Archives; Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame

Contact:

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

FRANCE IS HOME TO 2024 OLYMPICS PPIHC IS HOME TO FRENCH DRIVERS

Colorado Springs, Colorado — The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, has hosted competitors from around the globe for over a century. In the waning days of the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, France, it seems fitting to recognize French drivers who have left an indelible mark on America’s Mountain in the PPIHC.

Competitors making their home in France, or representing their nation while living elsewhere, have raced on two wheels and on four up the 12.42 miles to the breathtaking 14,115′ summit. From Time Attack to Unlimited, motorcycles to sidecars, drivers and riders challenged the mountain and a few have conquered it in record fashion.

With a retired Time Attack 1 record of 09:23.721 in 2019, Raphael Astier drove a 2017 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup Turbo. Likewise, Cyril Combes aboard his 2011 Suzuki KTM JF Prototype set a quad record in his rookie year, 2016, with a time of 11:05.554.

Electric Power & Overall Course Record – Romain Dumas

Romain Dumas, 5-Time King of the Mountain, holds the overall record, set in 2018 in a Volkswagen all-electric I.D. R – 07:57.148 – the first and only time below the 8-minute mark.

Dumas also holds the current record for the Unlimited Division, for an Electric Prototype/Purpose Built vehicle, and for an All Wheel Drive vehicle. In 2023 he set a record for an Electric Production Truck/Van in an effort with Ford Performance in the Ford SuperVan 4.2, an 08:47.682.

Gas Powered Record – Sébastien Loeb

With a time of 08:13.878, Sébastien Loeb holds a record for an internal combustion engine set in 2013 over the newly-paved course. Loeb drove a Peugeot 208 T16 Pikes Peak to crush the previous course record.

Diesel Powered Record – Gregoire Blachon

After a few years of battling the infamous Pikes Peak weather, Gregoire Blachon’s dream of beating the diesel record finally came true on America’s Mountain in 2021 behind the wheel of his Radical SR Diesel. His time of 10:25.071 beat the previous record by almost a full minute.

Queen of the Mountain

And who can forget Michèle Mouton who is the only woman to win the event and set a course record. Mouton competed in 1985 in her Audi Sport Quattro, finishing in 10:25.390.

Photo Credits: PPIHC Archivies, Rob Miscowitch, Larry Chen Photo: Larry Chen, Louis Yio, Luis Garcia

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