British racing driver Robin Shute won the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb for the fourth time recently, and managed to score the fourth-best time ever recorded in the legendary unrestricted race that sees drivers speed to the top of Pikes Peak in Colorado.
For the uninitiated, the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is an annual event that dates back to 1916. There are no rules: You turn up in the best machinery possible, and aim for the top of the mountain, navigating 156 turns and 12.42 miles in order to get there. The finish line sits at an elevation of 14,115 feet, inspiring the race’s nickname, “The Race to the Clouds.”
This year, three-time winner Shute won a fourth time by making it up to the peak in just 8 minutes and 40 seconds.
The footage of Shute’s climb to the top is exhilarating to watch — as the description lays out, Shute had to power through shift failures, tire wear and brake issues, yet he still managed to get to the finish line in under 9 minutes. As one commenter pointed out, “The fact he was unable to downshift on much of the course, almost to the point of stalling, and yet to still win is testament to the rest of the car, and Robin’s skill as a driver.”
Shute took to Instagram after the race to thank his team and fans for their support, as well as his fellow competitors for providing some stiff competition, writing, “Blimey, what a week! It was a fight all the way up the mountain on Sunday. Absolutely chuffed to bring home win no.4 after stiff competition from @romaindumas_official and @fordperformance. I’ve been inundated with all the messages and well wishes from everyone, I think I’ve finally caught up. Thank you so much! A big thank you to @thesendyclub and all my partners. Without you, my sends would be mediocre!”
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