Colorado Springs——–The 17th Annual Fan Fest, presented by Toyo Tires and Budweiser, will make downtown Colorado Springs the place to be on Friday, June 22nd, from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., as Olympic City USA casts it eyes on the 2018 Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, on Sunday, June 24th.
“Each June, the most talented and skilled drivers and motorcycle riders from across the globe descend on Olympic City USA to celebrate top speed. We’re fortunate to host the world-renowned Race to the Clouds and showcase America’s Mountain on an international stage. The drivers, riders and their dedicated crews also help create a family-friendly and unforgettable experience by interacting with our community and visitors during Fan Fest in our vibrant downtown,” said Doug Price, President & CEO of the Colorado Springs Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Fan Fest celebrates the 96th running of the famed race with fun, food and thrills for some 30,000 fans who will take part in the gala street festival, spanning seven blocks of Tejon Street in downtown Colorado Springs.
“The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is the most prestigious hill climb in the world and has a long and rich tradition in our community. The event itself, as well as the accompanying downtown Fan Fest, are great community celebrations and I encourage all of our residents to get out and experience this proud tradition.” said Colorado Springs Mayor John Suthers.
Fans can meet competitors and see their cars and motorcycles as they prepare to take on the world’s toughest hill climb on Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain. The PPIHC is the USA’s second-oldest motorsport event behind the famous Indianapolis 500.
“Fan Fest is one of the best parts of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. It gives the drivers and teams a chance to connect with the fans. We can display the cars and answer questions. Plus, it’s a great chance for the sponsors to showcase their product. It’s a highlight of the week for Dallenbach Racing,” said race superstar Paul Dallenbach, who will drive his 2006 PVA Dallenbach Special in the Open Wheel Class.
This year’s Fan Fest entertainment package includes the Budweiser Beer Garden, the Fire Fighter Chili Cook Off benefiting the Muscular Dystrophy Association/Rocky Mountain region, sponsor booths, food trucks and vendors for the fans. Sam and Kathy Guadagnoli will present the Red Bull Motocross Team, a true highlight of the evening.
“The Hill Climb team salutes the support and contributions of Sam and Kathy Guadagnoli to Fan Fest,” said PPIHC Executive Director Megan Leatham. “Sam and Kathy are once again presenting the appearance of the Red Bull Motocross Team. They are great supporters who simply want to make good things happen in Colorado Springs. We could not make Fan Fest the tremendously popular event it has become without their generous financial support.”
The Guadagnolis are successful downtown business owners and longtime supporters of sports-related events, including U.S. Olympic downtown celebrations and Fan Fest. The husband and wife entrepreneurs have launched a $75 million redevelopment project spanning South Nevada Avenue, Tejon Street and Cascade Avenue that is re-shaping the area into a prized destination for thousands who want to live, shop and dine in the area.
Fire departments in Southern Colorado will compete in the annual Chili Cook Off with ladles in hand for the title of Best Green Chili, Best Red Chili, Best Booth Design, and Most Money Raised. Colorado Springs Professional Fire Fighters, IAFF Local 5 will host the Cook Off during Fan Fest. The spicy recipes of southern Colorado’s finest firefighters are sure to set off alarms! Donations gathered during the event help support the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA).
“MDA Rocky Mountain is extremely grateful for the dedication and passion shown by the Colorado Springs Professional Firefighters in the fight against muscle disease. Their commitment to a cure has played a huge role in recent medical breakthroughs in the MDA community. We would not be able to achieve our mission without them,” said Nathan Ressler-Aragon, Director of Development.
Admission to Fan Fest is free, it’s great family fun, and delivers a chance to get into the spirit of motorsport racing. Since Fan Fest took its place in 2002 as one of the premier events leading up to the race each year, more than 400,000 fans have made their way to downtown Colorado Springs to enjoy the excitement, making it likely the biggest downtown event in the city. During the last four years, some 30,000 enthusiasts have been part of the event annually.
Red Bull Motocross Team performer Keith Sayers says “This is one venue I love coming to each year! The event staff and race fans really make this a must-attend event for me! I’m looking forward to June 22 in downtown Colorado Springs.”
Fan Fest spectators will see some of the best riders in the world performing jaw-dropping aerial tricks while jumping a distance of 75′ and soaring 35′ in the air!
Keep up-to-date on PPIHC activities, news and ticket purchases at: www.ppihc.org
Mike Moran mike@thesportscorp.org
PPIHC Senior Media Consultant
1631 Mesa Avenue, Suite E
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
(719) 338-9161
