Whether this is your first race or you're a seasoned veteran, we hope this guide will help you understand and enjoy this great auto racing event! If you have any further questions, ask one of the Crowd Marshals located in all spectator areas.

What to Wear - Even if race day dawns warm and sunny, it could get very cold on the mountain by midday. Dress in layers...make sure everyone brings an extra jacket or sweater!

Bring Your Radio - Even when the cars are out of sight, you can follow the excitement of the race by listening to the live broadcast! Tune to SPORTS RADIO AM-1240 KRDO.

Getting to the Race - Take Highway 24 west from Colorado Springs about 10 miles to the town of Cascade and follow the signs. Arrive early, choose your spectator spot and get into position...the road opens to spectators at 4 a.m. and closes at 8:30 a.m.!

About the Course - The starting line for the race is located at the 7-mile post above the Toll Gate. The race course is 12.42 miles to the 14,110' summit of Pikes Peak, and includes 156 turns.

Parking - Vehicle parking areas are provided for each spectator area on a limited basis. Please park in designated areas. (See Map.)

Crowd Marshals - They are assigned to spectator areas to assist you...and for your safety.

Overnight Camping - Pikes Peak toll gate will be open for overnight camping 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., July 3. Overnight parking permit required. Available from the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Educational Museum or Pikes Peak Highway Toll Gate at Cascade. Racing is Inherently Dangerous - The PPIHC enjoys an enviable safety record. One reason for this safety record is the common sense of you, our fans. To maintain this record, we need your help. Please stay clear of the race course and don't sit or stand on the outside of corners.

Animals - We discourage bringing pets to the race.

Children - The Hill Climb is an exciting event for the whole family, but it can be unpredictable. By all means, bring the kids...but keep them under close supervision.

Off-Road Vehicles - It's illegal to operate any unlicensed motorbikes, ATVs, or off-road vehicles on the Pikes Peak Highway. These vehicles will be impounded.

FIREWORKS, OPEN FIRES AND FIREARMS ARE PROHIBITED

Starting Time - No spectator cars will be allowed past the Start Line after 8:45 a.m. on Race Day.

When the Race is Over - An official will release your parking area for continuous, one-lane traffic from the Pikes Peak Highway to Highway 24.

Altitude Sickness - Remember the race starts at 9,000' and finishes at 14,110'. Signs of altitude sickness are nausea, dizziness, and fainting.

SPECIAL HINTS TO SPECTATORS: * As you drive down the mountain, remember that hot brakes can fail... so use a low gear. * Drinking alcohol and high altitudes do not mix. To ensure overnight parking privileges, please party smart,..and ask your friends to do the same. No alcohol will be allowed at Half-Way Picnic Ground or Eleven Mile Water Station areas. * The Forest Service reminds you that Pikes Peak is your mountain...please do not destroy any of its natural terrain including trees, flowers, grass and rocks.

MEET THE STARS OF THE SHOW... What was that car that just sped by? What do the different divisions mean? Who are the top racers to watch for? Here are some facts that may help you understand and enjoy The Race To The Clouds:

Electric Division - As technology progresses, these cars may represent the wave of the future. Race record-15:44.71 by Katy Endicott in 1994.

Stock Cars - This is the most competitive division, featuring standard model cars no more than 6 years old. These cars are built for safety, much like NASCAR race cars. Look for close competition in the largest class. Qualifying Times (to Glen Cove only): Around 5 minutes; Race Times: Around 11 minutes.

Open Wheel - This is the original class of Hill Climb racing, featuring rear-engine cars. Look for names like David Donner, Gary Lee Kanawyer and Paul Dallenbach. Qualifying Times: 4 minutes; Race Times: Around 10 minutes.

Pikes Peak Open - These cars may look just like stock cars from the outside, but major modifications can be done to their engines, transmissions and suspension. Qualifying Times: Around 5:15; Race Times: Around 12 minutes.

Super Trucks - These specially modified trucks are used in off-road racing. Look for Leonard Vahsholtz and Robby Unser to duel for first place. Qualifying Times: Around 5:30; Race Times: Around 11+ minutes.

Showroom Stock - The name says it all. The only modifications allowed to these cars and trucks are heavier tires and tubes, plus roll cage and race seats. So, if it wins on the mountain, you can go to your nearest dealer and buy one just like it! This division is a great way for manufacturers to show off their latest products Unlimited - Any vehicle that passes the mandatory safety and technical inspection is allowed in this division. Rod Millen set the overall race record in 1994 in an all wheel-drive Toyota, 10:04.06.

Motorcycles - Since the first Hill Climb back in 1916, the motorcycle division has been an exciting part of the race, and this year will be no exception! Six different classes, including ATV quads, will run five at a time at 30 second intervals.

Class 8 Diesel Trucks over-the-road, tractor-trailer - These are similar to rigs and are spectacular to watch.

Exhibition Division - Look for unique and exciting vehicles in this division.

ABOUT THE CARS... Before the race, all cars will be inspected by the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Technical Inspector for proper engine size, chassis and roll bars, on-board fire systems and seat/shoulder harnesses. These safety features are very important, as the cars will reach speeds of well over 100 mph on their way to the summit.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE RACE TO THE CLOUDS...VISIT THE PIKES PEAK AUTO HILL CLIMB EDUCATIONAL MUSEUM! Located at the foot of Pikes Peak in Manitou Springs, the Museum houses many famous cars and motorcycles that have taken part in previous races. For racing enthusiasts old and new, a visit to the Museum is a must! Throughout race week, you'll especially enjoy a trip through history at the Pikes Peak Auto Hill Climb Educational Museum. The Museum is open year-round.

OUR COMMITMENT TO THE ENVIRONMENT. The organizers and sponsors of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb are committed to preserving the beautiful Pikes Peak environment which provides such a thrilling setting for the Race To The Clouds. We have done everything possible to prevent any negative impact on these beautiful surroundings. We encourage our spectators to do the same, by disposing of all litter in the proper receptacles and not disturbing the trees, rocks or natural landscape. Thank You!

PLEASE DO NOT LITTER!! Pack out what you pack in. And remember, stay clear of the road during the race. Let's give drivers a clear run.

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