As Waldo Canyon wildfire in Colorado Springs spreads to more than 18,000 acres and causes 32,000 people to evacuate the area, organizers of the 2012 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb announce postponement of the event until further notice. Many teams and drivers have been preparing for the 90th Pike Peak challenge. It’s a big disappointment for them, and also for the fans.

But it’s what had to be done because safety always comes first. The fire has an unpredictable path of expansion, it generates a considerable amount of, flames, smoke and ashes that go up to 20,000 ft in height and it has closed the main highway which grants access to the mountains. So it’s kinda impossible to have a big motorsport event in such conditions.

But come to think of it, it would have been quite awesome if they could carry on with plans in spite of the fire. Imagine Monster Tajima racing up the mountain while being chased by massive flames! It would be dangerous, yes, but very exciting to watch.

Organizers have to reschedule the whole event and come up with a new date. Well, they first have to wait for the fire to be put out, which may take a while, seeing as only 5 percent of it has been contained thus far.

Tom Osborne, chairman of the board for the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb said:  “Our deepest concern is for the safety of the public and the competitors, and it was obvious that several agencies charged with public safety would not be able to commit the resources and manpower required to ensure those requirements because of the critical need for their resources at this time. Our city is in an unprecedented struggle right now and we are deeply sensitive to it.”

via: MotorAuthority