PAPIS AND SCHRANZ PUT GEICO ON TOP OF THE WORLD AT PIKES PEAK
By Max Papis Racing | July 22, 2009 at 1:53 pmColorado Springs, CO (July 21, 2009) – Max Papis has long been told of the mountain called Pikes Peak. Growing up in Italy, he has always known Pikes Peak to be one of the most famous races in the world. Over the weekend, Papis would achieve yet another racing accomplishment when he strapped into the pace car and led the charge up the 14,110-foot mountain that encompasses 156 twisting turns and 3,000-foot drops.
By contrast, since he was 9-months old Layne Schranz grew up on the famous mountain watching his father, legendary racer Randy Schranz, race there. Now, 37 years later, Layne and his father Randy are still on the hill and have become a dominant duo at the Race to the Clouds.
Qualifying 2nd in the #7 GEICO Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Layne Schranz was forced to make his trip up the mountain in heavy intermittent rain. He would then be met at the summit by snow.
Despite the austere weather conditions, the 1997 PPIHC Rookie of the Year and 2000 winner managed to make the trek in just twelve minutes and two seconds. Schranz’s time was good enough to record a second place finish in the 87th Annual Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. His journey would allow him his fifth visit to the podium in the last seven years.
“It was a great weekend for the GEICO team and I’m happy to be able to return GEICO’s support with a 2nd place finish,” Schranz said. “I’m thankful that GEICO gave me the opportunity to take the Gecko to the top of Pikes Peak. It was a special weekend and I’m glad that Max Papis was able to join us and be a part of such an exciting event.”
Although Max Papis has toured nearly every major auto racing facility in the world, Pikes Peak is certainly the most unique. His excitement was evidenced by the perpetual smile that occupied his face over the course of the weekend.
“It was very exciting to be here and drive the GEICO pace car to the top of Pikes Peak,” Papis said. “I’ve heard about this race my whole life, so it’s fulfilling to have been able to take part in it. I’m very happy for Layne and it was exciting to see the GEICO car get a podium finish. I’m looking forward to returning next year to this awesome event.”
For more information about the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, please visit www.ppihc.com
For more information about Max Papis and the GEICO NASCAR Sprint Cup Series program, please visit www.geicogarage.com.
