COLORADO SPRINGS — Organizers of The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb announced Thursday the race will take place on August 30 with no spectators in attendance.
The race was originally scheduled for March 19 but was rescheduled due to concerns over the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Board of Directors used input and advertisement from state and local agencies in making the decision.
“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,” said 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.”
The Board said all camping permits, practice, and race day ticket purchases will automatically be fully refunded.
The Fan Fest street festival, slated for Friday, Aug. 28, was also canceled.
Leatham said while this is always a popular event canceling was the responsible decision.
“For many, this is one of the highlights of the summer. It’s always exciting and packed with people," she said. "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.”
There are several ways to be part of the action from home:
- Watch the webcast on the PPIHC YouTube Channel or the Mobil 1 Facebook page
- Follow along on social media @PikesPeakHillClimb on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
- Download the Official PPIHC App
- Track Race Day and Practice Day results at ppihc.org
- You can also buy a souvenir race program
There will also be a new documentary late this year on MotorTrend TV and the MotorTrend App
