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June
19

It's Race Week in Colorado Springs! Top race car drivers are here for the Pikes Peak Hill Climb, a 100+ year tradition. Although Race Day tickets are sold out, you can live stream the event on Sunday and watch practice runs June 18-21. Don't miss Fan Fest on Friday night, June 21, from 5-9PM, featuring driver meet-and-greets, race car closeups, a beer garden, and an FMX Freestyle Motocross Demo.

History
The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC), sponsored by Gran Turismo, is also known as "The Race to the Clouds." This invitational automobile hill climb takes competitors to the summit of Pikes Peak, America's Mountain. Established in 1916 by Spencer Penrose, who also founded the Broadmoor Hotel, Pikes Peak Highway, and El Pomar Foundation, the PPIHC covers a 12.42 mile public toll road with 156 turns. Participants ascend 4,720 feet from the 9,390 foot start line at Mile 7 on the Pikes Peak Highway to the 14,115 foot finish line at the summit. As drivers ascend toward the summit, the thin air slows reflexes and drains both mental and muscle strength, while also reducing the power of internal combustion engines by up to 30% compared to their performance at the start line. Competitors and their vehicles must be in peak condition just to finish the race, let alone win. This self-sanctioned race is the most diverse one-day motor sport events in the world.



Tuesday, June 18 - Friday, June 21 - Practice Runs
Race Day tickets are sold out, however, practice run tickets are still available for purchase. These tickets can be purchased online in limited quantities for $75 per day. Each Practice Day you attend requires a separate ticket, and all spectators must sign a liability waiver at the Gateway. Gates open at 4AM and close at 4:45AM with no exceptions. The start line, located 7 miles up the Pikes Peak Highway, closes to uphill traffic at 4:45AM. Spectators must watch practice sessions from designated areas (start line, Glen Cove, Devil's Playground) and cannot move along the course once practice starts. Practice Day attendees will only see cars assigned to practice on a specific section each day. Friday's practice session is optional for competitors and has no qualifying. You can purchase Practice Day tickets here.


Friday, June 21 - Fan Fest 
Presented by Toyo Tires, is one of Colorado Springs' largest and most popular street festivals, attracting over 35,000 people to Downtown Colorado Springs the Friday before Race Day. From 5PM to 9PM, meet drivers, visit top sponsors, and enjoy high-flying stunts during the FMX Show. This 10-block street party takes place rain or shine, with no alternate dates due to weather.



Sunday, June 23 - Race Day
At 2:30AM, the Gateway opens to the public with pre-purchased tickets, allowing entry through any of the 3 gates available. at 5:30AM, the start line closes to the public, and no spectator vehicles are allowed above the official PPIHC start line, approximately 7 miles uphill from the Gateway. Merchandise sales begin at 6AM at the start line, Halfway Picnic Grounds, and Devils Playground. Opening ceremonies start at 6:30AM, followed by the green flag at 7:30AM for the start of the 102nd running. The event is expected to end around 5PM, followed by the Parade of Champions. The event is live streamed, click here to watch!

The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb offers an exhilarating blend of history, speed, and community spirit. Would you like to learn more about our beautiful city? One of our qualified real estate agents, would be happy to answer any and all of your questions. Contact us to get started, or start your home search today from the comfort of your own home!

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