Carlin Dunne, four-time Pikes Peak Hill Climb winner was killed in crash at the 97th edition of the race. 

 

 

Dunne, Ducati Team Spider Grips driver fell just a few meters before the finish line, after having dominated the first three sessions of the race on the Prototype Ducati Streetfighter V4. Dunne previously finished more than five seconds ahead of the nearest competitor in the lower section and was hoping to set a new record on the legendary Hill Climb. 

The following is the official announcement from the Race Organizers, Colorado Springs community and Ducati North America: “The collective hearts of the Colorado Springs community and the Board of Directors of The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, along with Ducati North America, share the grief and pain of Carlin Dunne’s family, friends and fans over his untimely death.”

The Board of Directors of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb made this statement. “Throughout the 97 years that this unique race has been conducted on America’s Mountain, we have experienced the ultimate joy in victory, the disappointment of failure and now, the unexpected heartbreak of the loss of a competitor, whose love of the race brought him to Pikes Peak. We mourn the tragic death of Carlin and he will remain in our hearts forever as part of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb family. Carlin will be remembered as a warm-hearted mentor with a competitive spirit. He was a gentle and thoughtful man who touched everyone who met him. We will always remember his contagious smile and genuine love for sport”. 

“There are no words to describe our shock and sadness. Carlin was part of our family and one of the most genuine and kind men we have ever known. His spirit for this event and love of motorcycling will be remembered forever as his passing leaves a hole in our hearts,” said Jason Chinnock, CEO Ducati North America.