Pikes Peak International Hill Climb to be Conducted Without Spectators on August 30
Posted: June 20, 2020 7:07 AM
Since March 19 when the announcement came that the 98th running of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by Gran Turismo, would be postponed until August 30, race fans everywhere have been eager to learn if they would be allowed to attend the world-famous hill climb in person. With input and advisement from state and local agencies the decision to conduct the race without spectators was announced today by the Board of Directors.
The race will take place as currently scheduled, but the atmosphere and energy will feel very different.
“For the first time, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb will be staged without its loyal, enthusiastic fans lining the course and no one is more disappointed than we are,” shared Megan Leatham, Executive Director. “Our staff and board of directors have discussed and analyzed multiple scenarios in which our race could be staged. However, with the government-issued long-term mandates for wearing personal protective equipment, providing appropriate social distancing, and limiting the size of group gatherings, we feel it is impossible to safely host spectators at the race on August 30.”
All Camping Permits, Practice and Race Day Ticket purchases will automatically be refunded in full.
The popular downtown street festival, Fan Fest, a kick-off event slated for Friday, August 28 has been canceled. Leatham added,
“For many, this is one of the highlights of the summer. It’s always exciting and packed with people. We typically welcome over 30,000 fans but in light of current government guidelines we feel it would be irresponsible to hold the event this year. The risk to our competitors, sponsors, volunteers and our fans is just too high.”
Board Chairman, Tom Osborne, stated, “As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact the way we all do business, we are finding ways to adapt to the new normal and will continue to monitor the federal, state and local regulations on large crowds. Despite this unforeseen challenge, our iconic motorsports event has proven its ability to adapt and endure, and it will continue to do so this summer, next year, and in preparation for the 100th Running in 2022.”
Leatham concluded, “We want to thank our amazing fans for their continued support and understanding and we really look forward to welcoming them back to the mountain in 2021.”
A Statement from the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb
Posted: March 20, 2020 5:45 AM
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect everyone throughout the world, the Board of Directors of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb has made the decision to postpone the 98th running of the race. The race will not be conducted on June 28, 2020, but instead will be slated to take place on Sunday, August 30.
“With a full recognition and understanding related to the current Coronavirus situation, our Board of Directors has decided to postpone the Race to the Clouds until August 30,” said PPIHC Chairman of the Board Tom Osborne. “As all Americans understand in these challenging times, there are numerous factors that may influence the decision to postpone, cancel, or reschedule major sports events, domestically and internationally - including the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. The safety of our competitors, fans, volunteers and partners is our major concern as we move forward.”
Fan Fest, which annually attracts more than 30,000 race fans in downtown Colorado Springs, will be set for Friday, August 28.
“Our Pikes Peak International Hill Climb family is important to us, and we believe this is the best option today. We feel confident that race teams, competitors and their crews, along with our loyal fans will support this change. We know this race is iconic and tremendously important to the auto racing world and our community, but the safety and health of everyone involved is our top priority,” said Megan Leatham, Executive Director.
A revised Race Week Schedule will be released and updates will be posted on the event website.
Event Website
Posted: March 20, 2020 5:44 AM