Drivers lament lack of fans for Pikes Peak Hill Climb

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- It's been known for months that the 2020 Pikes Peak Hill Climb would be held without fans.

So far, things have appeared relatively normal. Qualifiers and practices have gone on as usual.

On race day, however, without fans to give drivers their send-offs, that's when drivers expect to notice the difference.

"It's going to be the weirdest thing not having the spectators there," Robb Holland says. "Especially on the start line, because they are just ramped up and there's a ton of energy. That kind of gets you pumped as a driver, knowing that there's guys cheering you on."

"One part of it that's the most difficult is the drive down," says 8-time champion and hall of famer Jeff Zwart. "Traditionally, we drive down and all of the fans high five us on the way down, and it's such a great way to finish up the weekend."

With or without fans, Holland says the race is still special.

"I think the challenge for the drivers is the mountain. Every year it calls us to come out here and challenge it again and again."