The Monster returns to Pikes Peak
Story By: Jordan Mason
Source: KOAA
Colorado Springs Published 88 day(s) ago
The drivers hit Pikes Peak bright and early Wednesday morning for the first day of practice leading up to Sunday’s Pikes Peak Hill Climb. Once again the big story on the mountain is “Monster” Tajima’s attempt to break that elusive ten minute barrier.
But this year, the Monster wants more.
“I want to make a new record,” said Tajima. “I want to make nine minutes, 59 seconds.”
But even if Monster does break the ten-minute barrier, the record may not stand.
Rhys Millen is back to race in the time attack, but more importantly, he says his dad may have a renewed passion. Peak legend Rod Millen hasn't raced here in years and won't race this year, but his record setting 94 Celica just got a full rebuild.
“He’s been asking me the past couple of days, what does the road look like, what does the road look like?” said Rhys Millen. “If Monster doesn't get the ten-minute barrier this year, I will gladly sit out a year to help my dad break it next year.”
News First sports reporter Jordan Mason asked Monster his reaction to the statement by Rhys Millen.
“I don't know because next year the top section may be all pavement, so it could be totally different,” said Tajima.
Monster is referring to the upper portion of the raceway. The road will eventually be paved all the way up, which is something that could hurt Monster and help Millen.
But back to this year. If Monster tops ten minutes, he also gets a $25,000 purse.
“Big party for all of the crew,” said Monster when asked what he’d do with the money. “Champaign, beer, and Saki. Why not?”
Practice for the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb runs through Friday. The race begins at 9 a.m. Sunday.
