Pikes Peak hill climb suspended due to forest fires

The Pikes Peak hill climb is one of the longest-running races in motorsport history. This year in particular marks the 90th edition, featuring electric prototypes, new cars, growing involvement from manufacturers with factory teams, and the promise that several records would be broken (Nobuhiro “Monster” Tajima is the driver who has reached the summit the fastest).

This year’s edition did not get off to a good start. Last night the organisers decided to postpone the race (which was due to take place on 8 July) until a more favourable date, almost at the end of summer, when the effects of the forest fires that have ravaged the region might allow the race to go ahead normally.

While some 30,000 people have had to be evacuated from the areas affected by the fires, close to the competition zone, the blaze that has already spread widely has not yet been brought under control. The authorities of the State of Colorado have recommended that the race not go ahead because of the danger that is still present, above all on the access routes for spectators and teams.

It has also been announced that the new date will be communicated within about two weeks, and that at all times every effort has been made to ensure the safety of the 211 teams taking part and of the spectators at the race.

Source | Racer