Flying Lizard Set for Pikes Peak Return With McLaren 650S GT3

After a second place finish in their Pikes Peak International Hill Climb debut last year, Flying Lizard Motorsports is set to return to the Race to the Clouds with Toyo Tires and race veteran Clint Vahsholtz, racing a McLaren 650S GT3.

The California-based team fielded a McLaren MP4-12C for Vahsholtz in 2018 (pictured above).

Located on the highest summit of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is the second oldest automotive racing event in North America, and the only course where the finish line sits 4,720 feet above the starting line.

“We are looking forward to taking on the Pikes Peak Hill climb for a second year with Toyo Tires,” said program manager Darren Law.

“The McLaren 650S GT3 will allow us more options in gearing, and a better aero, suspension and electronics package which should help in all areas.

“Clint Vahsholtz is the winningest driver at Pikes Peak, and he has put a lot of work into learning the 650S GT3 with our recent testing at Sonoma Raceway.”

In preparation for the event, the Lizards recently completed a test at Sonoma Raceway in the McLaren, giving Vahsholtz additional seat time with the GT3 machine.

Former race car driver Law was on hand to offer his expertise during the test.

“I am looking forward to the 97th running of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and teaming up with Flying Lizard Motorsports and Toyo Tires,” said Vahsholtz.

“Darren Law’s expertise and knowledge of the McLaren 12C GT3. His coaching has assisted my adaption immensely to this type of driving. Once again working with Marc and Toyo, which is the perfect tire for Pikes Peak, will allow my confidence in gripping the course.

“Also, with the set up expertise from Tommy Sadler and his team, we are expecting good results.”

Law added: “We are very appreciative of Toyo Tires and their commitment to this program,

“We have been working with them for many years now on multiple programs, they produce an amazing Proxes Race Slick that is perfect in these conditions and we can’t wait to go for the top step of the podium this year.”

A number of other sports car racing teams, including RealTime Racing and Gradient Racing are expected to field GT3-based machinery in  this year’s event.