Hillclimbing racing may not be as well-known as races like Formula One, but it’s equally intense and thrilling motorsport, offering a unique blend of adrenaline and skill, unlike any other racing discipline. This sport is not just about speed; it’s a test of precision, power, and patience, challenging drivers to conquer steep inclines in the shortest time possible. In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating world of hillclimbing, from its history and vehicles to the skills required for this sport.
What is Hillclimbing?
The concept of hillclimbing is wonderfully straightforward: just drive up a hill as fast as you can. It’s one of the reasons why this sport is one of the oldest in motor racing. In the UK alone, there are nearly 30 hillclimb venues, like the longest one at Harewood in Yorkshire, measuring 0.86 miles. The fastest cars can zip up most hills in under a minute.
Hillclimbing is a bit like endurance racing, with various classes to ensure fair competition, but without the sleepless nights. Only one car races on the track at a time in this time-trial event, with classes usually divided by engine size and modifications.
The paddock area in hillclimbing is completely open. There’s no exclusive section, and all the tweaking of cars happens in full view of passersby, who often stop to admire the engines and quirky interior decorations. While drivers take shelter or rest in their tents and trailers, their tires are cleaned and prepped for the next run.
This openness is what makes grassroots motorsport so special. There are no barriers between fans and racers. It’s affordable for spectators, and the drivers are usually more than happy to chat about their cars or let kids hop into the driver’s seat.
Today, hillclimbing is essentially an amateur sport. While it has been a stepping stone to fame for some in the past, it’s more common to see local enthusiasts competing for a class win. Winning a hillclimb championship is still prestigious, but with the intense competition to become a professional racer, many find their way into the sport through different paths.
The History of Hillclimbing
The origins of hillclimbing can be traced back to the early days of motor vehicles. In fact, it is one of the oldest forms of motorsport! The first known hillclimb was at La Turbie near Nice, France, in 1897. Hillclimbing was initially a test of mechanical reliability, but it quickly evolved into a speed competition.
One of the most storied events in the history of hillclimbing is the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in the United States. Established in 1916, it is one of the oldest motor races in America. The Pikes Peak climb is a grueling test over a 12.42-mile course with 156 turns, climbing 4,720 feet to the summit. This race has become synonymous with the sport, attracting top drivers and manufacturers from around the globe.
In Europe, hillclimbing also took root with notable events like the Shelsley Walsh Speed Hill Climb in the UK, established in 1905. Shelsley Walsh is the world’s oldest continuously run hill climb course, offering a shorter but technically challenging route that has become a staple in British motorsport.
The Evolution of Hillclimb Cars
Initially, hillclimb cars were a little different from the road cars of their era. However, as the sport grew in popularity, competitors began modifying and building specialized vehicles designed for the unique challenges of hillclimbing. This led to the creation of some of the most innovative and extreme racing cars.
During the 1920s and 1930s, hillclimbing enjoyed a golden age, with technology from Grand Prix racing often finding its way into hillclimb cars. Lightweight construction, powerful engines, and advanced suspension systems became standard.
Post-War Era and Technological Advancements
After World War II, hillclimbing resumed with renewed vigor. The 1950s and 1960s saw a surge in popularity, with technology from the burgeoning sports car and formula racing scenes influencing hillclimb vehicles. Cars became faster, more agile, and more specialized.
In the 1970s and 1980s, the sport witnessed a technological leap with the introduction of aerodynamic aids, better tires, and more powerful engines. This era saw the dominance of purpose-built hillclimb specials, vehicles designed solely for the task of ascending hills as rapidly as possible.
Modern Era
Today, hillclimbing remains a diverse and innovative motorsport. Modern hillclimb events feature a wide range of vehicles, from vintage classics to cutting-edge race cars. The sport continues to be a testbed for automotive technology, with recent years seeing the rise of electric and hybrid powertrains, reflecting broader trends in the automotive industry.
The Future of Hillclimbing
As technology advances, so does hillclimbing. Electric vehicles are becoming more prominent, with their instant torque and acceleration being well-suited to the demands of hillclimb racing. The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb has already seen electric vehicles outperforming traditional combustion engine cars.
What Cars Are Used for Hillclimb Races?
Vehicles used in hillclimb races range from modified road cars to specialized hillclimb machines. These cars are often lightweight, featuring powerful engines and aerodynamic designs to tackle the steep inclines. The most extreme hillclimb cars, like those seen at Pikes Peak, can have over 800 horsepower and are engineered to cope with the specific demands of racing up a mountain – from thinning air affecting engine performance to varying road surfaces.
The Evolution of Hillclimbing Cars
In the early days of hillclimbing, competitors often used standard road cars, which were barely different from those driven on public roads. However, the need for specialized vehicles became evident as the sport progressed. These early specialized hillclimb cars were often custom-made, focusing on reducing weight and increasing power.
Over the decades, hillclimb cars have evolved significantly. In the mid-20th century, the vehicles began to borrow heavily from advancements in other forms of motorsport, particularly in terms of engine power and lightweight materials. Aerodynamics also started to play a crucial role, with designs becoming more streamlined to cut through the air more efficiently.
Today’s hillclimb cars are broadly categorized into two types: modified production cars and purpose-built hillclimb specials.
- Modified Production Cars: These are based on standard production models but heavily modified for hillclimbing. Modifications include engine tuning for more power, suspension adjustments for better handling, and weight reduction for increased agility. Aerodynamic enhancements like large wings and splitters are common to improve downforce.
- Purpose-Built Hillclimb Specials: These are bespoke machines built from the ground up for hillclimbing. They often feature tubular chassis, lightweight composite bodywork, and highly sophisticated aerodynamics. The engines are usually positioned for optimal weight distribution and can be incredibly powerful, often derived from racing categories like Formula 1 or sports car racing.
Engines
The powertrains of hillclimb cars vary widely, from highly tuned internal combustion engines to hybrid and fully electric systems. Traditional hillclimb cars often use large-capacity, naturally aspirated engines for their immediate power delivery and reliability. However, turbocharged and supercharged engines are also common, offering a significant power boost.
In recent years, electric powertrains have made their mark in hillclimbing. Electric motors provide instant torque, which is a huge advantage in a sport where acceleration is key. Vehicles like the Volkswagen ID.R have demonstrated the immense potential of electric power in hillclimbing, breaking records at events like Pikes Peak.
Aerodynamics
Aerodynamics plays a crucial role in the design of hillclimb cars. Given the steep inclines and high speeds, generating downforce to keep the car glued to the road is crucial. Hillclimb cars often feature large front and rear wings, diffusers, and other aerodynamic elements to maximize downforce while minimizing drag.
Weight and Balance
Weight is a critical factor in hillclimb racing. Lighter cars accelerate faster and are more nimble, which is essential on the tight and twisty courses typical of hillclimb events. Weight distribution is also vital; a well-balanced car provides better handling, which is crucial for navigating the sharp turns and varying inclines of hillclimb courses.
Skills Required for Hillclimb Racing
Hillclimbing is not just about raw power. It requires a high level of skill and precision from the drivers. They must have an intimate knowledge of their vehicle and the course, understanding where to push hard and where to be cautious. Unlike circuit racing, there’s no room for error; a slight miscalculation can lead to a crash, with some courses lined with unforgiving barriers or steep drop-offs.
Drivers need to be adept at handling changing grip levels and must be able to read the road ahead quickly. They also need to be physically fit, as the intense concentration and quick reflexes required can be mentally and physically exhausting. Here’s what hillclimb racers need to learn:
Precision Driving
Hillclimbing is a precision sport. Drivers must navigate narrow, winding roads with steep inclines, often bordered by unforgiving barriers or sheer drops. This requires a level of accuracy and control that is unparalleled in other racing disciplines. Every turn, every braking point, and every acceleration must be executed flawlessly to maintain momentum and avoid costly mistakes.
Course Knowledge
In-depth knowledge of the course is paramount in hillclimbing. Unlike circuit racing, where drivers can memorize a relatively short track, hillclimb courses are often longer and more complex. Drivers spend hours studying the course, walking the track if possible, and using video analysis to memorize each turn, bump, and change in elevation. This preparation allows them to anticipate what’s ahead and react accordingly, an essential skill when driving at the limit.
Vehicle Understanding and Setup
A deep understanding of their vehicle’s capabilities and how to set it up for specific conditions is crucial for hillclimb racers. These cars are often highly tuned and sensitive to adjustments in suspension, tires, aerodynamics, and more. Drivers work closely with their teams to find the optimal setup for each course, balancing power, grip, and handling to suit the unique challenges they face.
Adapting to Changing Conditions
Hillclimb races can span various altitudes and weather conditions, meaning drivers must be adept at adapting to changing environments. As they ascend, the air can become thinner, affecting engine performance, and weather conditions can shift rapidly. Skilled hillclimb drivers are able to adjust their driving style on the fly, compensating for these changes to maintain optimal performance.
Mental and Physical Endurance
The intense focus required for hillclimbing demands a high level of mental and physical endurance. Drivers must maintain concentration and react quickly to the ever-changing road conditions, all while managing the physical demands of controlling a high-powered vehicle on an unforgiving course. This combination of mental and physical exertion is taxing, and top hillclimb drivers often have rigorous training regimes to maintain their edge.
Risk Management
Hillclimbing inherently involves risk, with little margin for error. Drivers must constantly evaluate the risk-reward balance, pushing the limits of speed and grip without overstepping the bounds of safety. This requires not only skill and bravery but also a keen sense of judgment, knowing when to push and when to hold back.
Learning from Each Run
Each run up the hill is a learning experience. Successful hillclimb drivers are those who can quickly analyze their performance, identify areas for improvement, and apply this knowledge in subsequent runs. This ability to learn and adapt rapidly is what separates the great drivers from the good ones.
Top Hillclimbing Racing Events
Hillclimbing racing events are held worldwide, attracting enthusiasts with their unique combination of challenging courses and high-speed thrills. Some of these events have grown in stature to become iconic in the world of motorsport. Here are some of the most famous hillclimbing racing events around the globe:
- Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (USA): Often referred to as “The Race to the Clouds,” this is one of the most well-known hillclimb events globally. Held in Colorado, it features a course that stretches over 12 miles and climbs nearly 5,000 feet to the summit of Pikes Peak. This event tests the endurance and skill of drivers and their vehicles, with everything from stock cars to specialized hillclimb machines competing.
- Goodwood Festival of Speed Hillclimb (UK): The Goodwood Festival of Speed in England includes a famous hillclimb event that is part of a larger celebration of motorsport history and culture. The event attracts a mix of historic and contemporary racing vehicles, including Formula 1 cars, sports cars, and motorcycles, making it a favorite among motorsport enthusiasts.
- Trento-Bondone Hill Climb (Italy): This is one of Europe’s oldest and most challenging hillclimbs, taking place in the picturesque mountains of Northern Italy. The course is known for its length, steep inclines, and numerous hairpin turns, offering a stern test for drivers and their vehicles.
- Australian Hillclimb Championship (Australia): This championship, first held in 1938, has been a regular event since 1947. Hillclimbing in Australia dates back to the early 1900s, especially around Melbourne in spots like Templestowe, Heidelberg, and Rob Roy.
- Knox Mountain Hillclimb (Canada): The most famous hillclimb event in Canada, this race takes place in Kelowna, British Columbia, on a paved road that climbs 245 m (804 ft). It’s been a yearly event since the 1950s and draws drivers from all over the Pacific Northwest.
- Mount Washington Hillclimb Auto Race (USA): Known as the Climb to the Clouds, this event takes place in New Hampshire and is one of the oldest motorsport events in the United States. The course is shorter than Pikes Peak but equally challenging, with dramatic changes in weather often adding an extra layer of complexity.
- Rechbergrennen (Austria): This event is part of the European Hillclimb Championship and is known for its steep and narrow course. It attracts a wide range of competitors, from amateur racers to professional drivers in highly specialized vehicles.
- Knysna Simola Hillclimb (South Africa): This event, held in the picturesque town of Knysna, has quickly gained a reputation as one of the premier motorsport events in Africa. It attracts a mix of classic car enthusiasts and modern supercar aficionados.
- Rampa da Falperra (Portugal): This event is also part of the European Hillclimb Championship circuit. The course is characterized by its fast straights and tight corners, providing a thrilling challenge for drivers.
- Course de Côte du Mont-Dore (France): This is one of France’s most famous hillclimb events, known for its beautiful mountain scenery and challenging course. It’s a part of the French Hillclimb Championship and attracts a diverse lineup of cars.
Conclusion
Hillclimbing racing is a unique and challenging motorsport that combines speed, skill, and strategy. Whether it’s at a local event or the legendary Pikes Peak, the sport offers an exciting spectacle for fans and an intense challenge for drivers. As it continues to grow and evolve with new technologies, hillclimbing racing is sure to capture the imagination of even more motorsport enthusiasts around the world.