The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, also known as the "Race to the Clouds," is an annual hill climb race that takes place on Pikes Peak in Colorado, USA. With a course that stretches for over 12 miles (19 km) and features 156 turns, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is considered one of the most challenging and dangerous races in the world.
The history of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb dates back to 1916, when Spencer Penrose, a wealthy businessman and philanthropist, organized the first race up Pikes Peak as a promotional event for the new road he had built to the top of the mountain. The race was an immediate hit, and it has been held every year since, with the exception of a few years during World War II.
Over the years, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb has attracted some of the best drivers and vehicles from around the world. In the early years of the race, participants drove everything from motorcycles to trucks, but today the race is primarily for cars.
In recent years, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb has seen a shift towards electric and hybrid vehicles, with several manufacturers, including Mitsubishi, Toyota, and Volkswagen, competing in the race with electric or hybrid prototypes.
Despite the challenges and dangers of the race, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb remains a popular and highly respected event in the world of motorsports. Each year, thousands of spectators and hundreds of competitors flock to Pikes Peak to witness or participate in this one-of-a-kind race.
If you're a fan of motorsports or just looking for an exciting and unique event to attend, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is definitely worth checking out. With its rich history and challenging course, it's an event that truly has something for everyone.