True to their word, organizers of the Pikes Peak Hill Climb have rescheduled the annual event less than one week after postponing it. The 90th annual Pikes Peak Hill Climb will now be held on August 12 rather than its original date of July 8. The popular event had to be delayed due to the ongoing devastating Colorado wildfires, which have resulted in the deaths of three people and destroyed over 600 homes since it began on June 9. The unfortunate disaster has also led to the evacuation of over 32,000 Colorado residents.
“With the help and support of the City of Colorado Springs, the U.S. Forest Service, Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, and the numerous agencies dedicated to the safety of the public and the competitors, we are thrilled to be able to make this announcement,” said Tom Osbourne, Chairman of the PPIHC and President and CEO of the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation.
Although 211 racers and their teams were scheduled to appear at July’s Pikes Peak Hill Climb, race officials do not expect that same number to attend the rescheduled event. Not surprisingly, the delay and ongoing wildfire as created numerous scheduling conflicts for many drivers and racers.
On the bright side, competitors are currently working to establish a benefit fund to help the fight against the wildfires. The upcoming fund will allow donations from drivers, racers, their sponsors, and the general public, to go directly local firefighting agencies.
Tickets purchased for the event’s original date will be honored, but no general refunds will be made. Ticketholders who wish to refund their tickets have the option of donating them to the relief fund. Also, all sponsor, vendor and supplier agreements will be fulfilled. Tickets are still available and can be purchased HERE.
Originally held in 1916, the PPIHC is second-longest running race in the United States. The annual road race is open to both cars and motorcycles. Since 1916, many different vehicles including cars, trucks, motorcycles and quads have all competed. The open wheel car-racing event has been won by several racing greats like Mario Andretti, Al Unser, Bobby Unser and Robby Unser. Robby, son of Bobby Unser, is the current class record holder.
Source: PPIHC
Also read: Pikes Peak Hill Climb postponed due to epic wildfire near Colorado Springs