Unprecedented Triumphs at 101st Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, also known as the "Race to the Clouds," has reached its 101st edition, and it did not disappoint. This legendary race, sponsored by Gran Turismo, took place on a challenging 12.42-mile paved course with 156 turns, boasting an incredible elevation gain of 4,725 feet. At an awe-inspiring finish line of 14,115 feet, champions were crowned in six divisions, and few race records were shattered. 

However, amidst the triumphs, an unfortunate crash marred the ambitious record-breaking mission of the BMW XM, adding a somber note to an otherwise thrilling event. Let's take a closer look at the highlights of this thrilling event.

Pikes Peak Open Division

Switzerland's Romain Dumas, a four-time King of the Mountain and holder of the overall course record, left spectators breathless with his stunning performance in the Pikes Peak Open division. Piloting the purpose-built 2023 Ford Performance SuperVan 4.2, Dumas conquered the mountain in a blistering time of 8m 47.682s, toppling the previous record set in 2019 by Peter Cunningham. Dumas' unrivaled skill and determination continue to solidify his legacy as one of the all-time greats in Pikes Peak history.

Unlimited Division

In a display of sheer dominance, British driver Robin Shute, now residing in Long Beach, Calif., showcased his exceptional skills behind the wheel of his 2018 Wolf TSC-FS. Shute blazed his way to the summit in a scorching time of 8m 40.080s, clinching first place in the Unlimited division and securing his fourth "King of the Mountain" crown. The crowd erupted in applause as Shute cemented his status as a true legend of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.

Time Attack 1 Division

In the Time Attack 1 division, David Donohue of West Chester, Pa., emerged as the victor, piloting his 2019 Porsche GT2 RS Clubsport. Donohue not only secured the division win but also surpassed the previous record set in 2020 by David Donner. Clocking in at an impressive time of 9 minutes and 18.053 seconds, Donohue's achievement marked a prestigious win for Brumos. Furthermore, for his remarkable feat as the swiftest Porsche conquering the mountain, Donohue was honored with the prestigious Bergmeister Award by Porsche of Colorado Springs. 

Open Wheel Division

Woodland Park, Colo., native Codie Vahsholtz left an indelible mark on the Open Wheel division. Piloting the 2013 Ford Open Vahsholtz Custom, Codie blazed through the course with unmatched precision and determination, clocking a new division record of 9m 19.192s. This remarkable feat surpassed the previous record set by his father Clint in 2020, making it a truly historic moment for the Vahsholtz family.

Porsche Pikes Peak Trophy by Yokohama

The spec-Porsche division witnessed a nail-biting competition, with three Pikes Peak International Hill Climb rookies taking the podium. Hayden Bradley, an 18-year-old from St. Petersburg, Fla., displayed exceptional skill and composure as he claimed the division victory in his 2020 Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport. Bradley's impressive time of 10m 48.387s secured his place at the top, while Nuno Caetano from Lisbon, Portugal, and Hutton McKenna from Norwalk, Calif., grabbed second and third place, respectively, in a race that was separated by a mere five seconds.

Pikes Peak Exhibition Division

The Exhibition division witnessed the arrival of a unique and eclectic mix of vehicles, and it was Tanner Foust of Newport Beach, Calif., who emerged as the victor. Foust's driving prowess was on full display as he maneuvered the 2023 Radford Type 62-2 to a remarkable time of 9m 37.326s. His skill and precision were unmatched, solidifying his position as the champion of the Exhibition division.

The Hidden Gems

Gregoire Blachon shattered the 2020 record in the diesel division, piloting the 2023 Radical SR Diesel to an awe-inspiring time of 10:25.071. His dominance left spectators amazed, finishing almost a minute ahead of his closest competitor.

The Rivian R1T claimed the throne in the Electric Production Truck/Van division, setting a record-breaking time of 11:23.983. With no other contenders, the R1T showcased the potential of electric vehicles with its silent power and zero-emissions capabilities.

Rhys Millen, a Pikes Peak legend, redefined the limits of production cars. After previously holding the record in a Bentley Continental GT, he returned in a 2023 BMW M8 and surpassed his own achievement with a stunning time of 10:12.024. Millen solidified his status as a true Pikes Peak legend.