From custom-designed single-seaters to cutting-edge, manufacturer-supported EVs, there’s always an abundance of choices at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. And it’s about to become even more diverse.
Three participants from the Ultra4 USA Championship are set to race in the 2026 Pikes Peak Hill Climb on June 21. This marks the first time in 15 years that Ultra4 racers have officially taken part in this iconic event. The lineup features multiple-time King of the Hammers champion Loren Healy, piloting the Ford Bronco-bodied 4400-class vehicle known as “El Bandito.” Healy will be joined by Phillip McGilton and Paul Wolff, who will drive his own 4400-class vehicle.
Ultra4 resembles the Olympics of off-road racing, merging high-speed desert traversing with intricate rock crawling, with King of the Hammers being its flagship event. This demands adaptable drivers—Healy once maneuvered a Bronco up Moab’s renowned Hell’s Gate in reverse and shone in this year’s FAT Ice Race. However, Pikes Peak introduces a completely new set of challenges.
Pikes Peak is contested on a 12.42-mile route featuring 156 turns, typically a public road, starting at 4,725 feet above sea level and culminating at the mountain’s 14,115-foot peak. The rarified air at high altitudes complicates power and downforce generation, and the multitude of turns poses a mental hurdle for competitors. Many of these turns are positioned above steep drops of hundreds or thousands of feet, with no guardrails. The course has been fully paved since 2012, removing these off-road racers from their comfort zone. Still, they should deliver an impressive performance.
Ultra4 last officially participated at Pikes Peak in 2011 with a group of six drivers. Series creator Dave Cole achieved third place in the Pikes Peak Open division with a time of 13:05.318. In 2022, Levi Shirley introduced an IFS single-seater at the landmark 100th event and finished despite rolling the vehicle at Engineers’ Corner. Shirley’s time of 13:44.532 reflected that unexpected incident but was still quicker than six other competitors.
This gives a glimpse of what to expect when Ultra4 makes its return to Pikes Peak this June. Hopefully, everyone will keep the shiny side up this time.
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**Ultra4 Set to Make a Comeback at Pikes Peak for Significant Racing Crossover Event**
The Ultra4 Racing series, celebrated for its exhilarating off-road contests, is poised to return to the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. This crossover occasion guarantees to merge the rugged difficulties of Ultra4 racing with the awe-inspiring altitude and technical requirements of the Pikes Peak route, crafting an electrifying experience for both participants and fans.
**Event Summary**
Scheduled for [insert date], this event will showcase a varied array of vehicles, featuring Ultra4’s distinctive rock crawlers, buggies, and additional off-road machines. The Pikes Peak route, famous for its 156 turns and over 4,720 feet of ascent, offers a distinctive challenge that tests the capabilities of both driver talent and vehicle performance. This partnership aims to highlight the adaptability of Ultra4 vehicles in a different setting, pushing the limits of what these machines can accomplish.
**The Importance of Pikes Peak**
Pikes Peak, often dubbed “America’s Mountain,” possesses a rich legacy in motorsport, hosting the annual Pikes Peak International Hill Climb since 1916. The mountain’s varied terrain, which comprises both paved and unpaved sections, provides a unique evaluation of speed, agility, and stamina. By integrating Ultra4 racing into this esteemed event, organizers strive to draw a wider audience and spotlight the versatility of off-road racing vehicles.
**Competitor Involvement**
This event is anticipated to attract a blend of veteran Ultra4 drivers and newcomers eager to leave their mark on the Pikes Peak stage. Participants will encounter not only the physical obstacles of the course but also the altitude, which can greatly influence vehicle performance and driver endurance. Teams must ensure meticulous preparation, guaranteeing their vehicles are outfitted to tackle the demanding conditions.
**Spectator Engagement**
For motorsport enthusiasts, this event offers a memorable experience. Fans will have the chance to witness adrenaline-pumping racing against the breathtaking backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Multiple viewing points along the route will provide vantage spots to catch all the action, from the roaring engines to the thrilling climbs. Furthermore, fan interaction activities, including opportunities to meet drivers and behind-the-scenes access, will enrich the overall experience.
**Final Thoughts**
The return of Ultra4 Racing to Pikes Peak signifies an exciting chapter in the advancement of off-road motorsports. This event not only honors the essence of competition but also underscores the adaptability and ingenuity within the racing community. As the date draws near, excitement builds for what promises to be a thrilling exhibition of speed, skill, and the relentless quest for victory on one of the most challenging courses globally.