Women drivers continue legacy of racing in Pikes Peak International Hill Climb
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- Five women are competing in this year's Pikes Peak Hill Climb, marking a continued increase in female participation in the historic race. This year's lineup includes drivers like Kathy Mead and Ryan Cheek, who are contributing to a growing legacy of women in motorsports.
The presence of women in the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb has evolved significantly over recent years. There are now roughly five to seven women drivers, a notable change from past seasons.
Mead, who is racing for the seventh time, recalled a period of much lower female representation in the event.
“My very first year, 2020, I was the only woman,” Mead said. She described the race as an intimidating but rewarding endeavor. “I really like it because I think it's a really it's the coolest thing I've ever done. And it's, when I first started thinking about doing it, it was way too intimidating.”
Cheek, competing in the Hill Climb for her third time, expressed her enthusiasm for the growing number of women in various motorsports.
“Seeing more women getting to motorsports, whether it's the Hill Climb wheel to wheel, autocross drifting, I just love it,” Cheek said.
The impact of women on the Pikes Peak Hill Climb is also highlighted by historical figures. The Manitou Springs Heritage Museum features an exhibit honoring women of the Hill Climb, including Michele Mouton, who was named “King of the Mountain” in the mid-80s despite facing skepticism and heckling from male competitors.
Mead later learned about Mouton. “Only after maybe 2 or 3 years did I get enough bandwidth to start really thinking about that,” Mead said. “And it was only a few years in that I learned about Michele Mouton. My first year, I was the only woman, so I was like, oh, I guess I'm the only woman to ever do it.”
The Unser family name is also synonymous with the Hill Climb, with several accomplished women drivers. Jeri Unser earned Rookie of the Year honors in 1998. Loni Unser finished tenth overall last season, and second in her division in her rookie season.
Cheek talked about the unique determination among the women drivers. “There's a woman behind the wheel. We know what we're doing,” Cheek said. She emphasized the inspiring aspect of women finding their passion in racing. “I think there's so much power to be had behind the wheel and I love seeing women find that for themselves.”
The journey for women in the Pikes Peak Hill Climb continues, with a new group of drivers poised to contribute to the race's ongoing story.
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