Pikes Peak 1999 Synopsis
Updated 7/7/99

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Rod Millen wins overall "Race to the Clouds".
Mother nature holds on to the 10-minute barrier.

After overcoming a fire that nearly destroyed Rod Millen's Pennzoil/Toyota Tacoma during a test session, the experienced Hill Climb driver was able to mark his fifth overall victory in six years at the 77th running of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.

Mother nature, unfortunately, delivered an afternoon shower and slippery road conditions at the top of the 12.42 mile, 156-turn, dirt road course, leaving the 10-minute barrier untouched.

"Since the fire six weeks ago, we've worked non-stop to ge tthe Toyota truck back to racing condition," explained the 48-year old Newport Beach, Calif. resident. "I'm extremely happy that our team was able to win fo rthe fourth year in a row. They truly deserve this one."

Millen's time of 10:11.15 was not threatened as the next closest time was 10:37.15 set by Nobuhiro Tajima.

"After qualifying, I really thought that this could be the year for us to break the 10-minute barrier," Millen said. "The road conditions looked pretty good all week, and the weather has been nice, but I knew it was raining at the top before I left the start line. You've gotta take what you get. I'll be back next year for sure in the same TRD-powered truck."

Rhys millen, Rod's son, won the High Performance Showroom Stock class and set a new class record with the time of 12:13.47.

The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb will be aired on ESPN2 on Aug. 4 from 8-9PM EST.