The ever-so-famous ten minute barrier has fallen at the 2011 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb thanks to Japanese hero Nobuhiro “Monster” Tajima.
Nine Minutes and fifty-one seconds to be exact. Crushing his previous record of 10:01. We caught up with Monster as he returned to the bottom of the hill to get his thoughts.
Rhys Millen and his PM580 also had a quick run and a solid shot of breaking the 10 minute barrier as well. All was going great, and it looked like he might even edge out Monster with a better time until the top section; Where Millen’s brakes became soft. Rhys said, “I was on pace with Tajima until the brakes gave out. I was giving up maybe two seconds in every turn. I would say a good 15 seconds overall.” Millen posted a respectable 10:09.30 with troubled brakes. He was frustrated, but at the same time happy to return to the bottom in one piece unlike many drivers and their cars. Rhys Millen and his Hyundai will be back next year in search for a new record.
The record will likely fall next year in thanks to the road being 100% paved for 2012. Monster Tajima says he will have a brand new car and Rhys says he will have the car to take the mountain next year. It is a friendly battle between the two. Tune in next year as the fight will ensue.
