The 90th Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is set to run on Sunday, August 12. The originally scheduled July 8 running was postponed due to the Waldo Canyon fire that ravaged much of south central Colorado.
The Fire’s Impact
The fire has been deemed the most destructive in the state’s history. Colorado Springs and the surrounding areas have been greatly impacted by the wildfire, and the re-scheduling of the 2012 Pikes Peak Hill Climb will go a long way to aid the area’s financial recovery.
Steve Bach, the Mayor of Colorado Springs said, “The City of Colorado Springs is thrilled that the 90th running of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is back on track. We are committed to dedicate the needed resources to make this year’s Hill Climb the best ever. As we have said throughout this community crisis – Colorado Springs is open for business!”
The Competitors’ Reaction
The 12.5 mile course up Pikes Peak will be traversed by competitors from 15 nations. Despite the change of schedule and racers’ scheduling conflicts, the majority of the top competitors have committed to racing on the new date.
The competitors are showing empathy and concern over the ravages of the wildfires. Tom Osborne, Chairman of the PPIHC, said that many of the drivers and racers have expressed a desire to establish a fund to benefit the agencies that battled the fire.
Jean-Philippe Dayraut of France, who finished 3rd in the unlimited category last year, said, “I followed the fires which affected your city. In France, it was the subject number 1 on the TV news. I am going to try to make a donation for the association by means of my sponsors to help a little for the people who have been hurt by the disasters and I would not miss the chance to dedicate my result, if I make the podium, to all the persons who worked to fight the fire. This year I hope to do better than last year on Pikes Peak, too. See you very soon.”
All pre-purchased tickets will be honored and there are still tickets available.
