After an absence of several years, and a successful return last year,
the AMA-sanctioned Pro/Am Gunstock Hillclimb is back for this
year’s Laconia Motorcycle Week.
Long a signature feature of America’s oldest Motorcycle Rally, the
Hillclimb returns to the 70 meter, original ski jump at Gunstock.
Although the climb was first sanctioned in 1938 at Gunstock (then
known as Belknap Mountain Recreation Area), its roots can be traced
all the way back to 1917, the rally’s second year. Back then, the
unofficial climb took place at the Weirs on Tower Hill Road,
consisting of an informal group of riders challenging each other to
get to the top of the notoriously steep road. Winners received
little more than bragging rights.
Today, the event is fully sanctioned by the American Motorcycle
Association and, with support from Gunstock Mountain Resort, local
businesses and sponsor, Ridge Runner Promotions, it’s back with a
vengeance. Spectators can watch the excitement of both amateur and
AMA professional riders gun the throttle and try to reach the top,
with thrills (and sometimes, spills) along the way. Over 7,000 people
are expected to line the slopes of Gunstock this year, where a $20
admission fee (free for kids 10 and under) will get you front row
seats to the competition. New this year, there will be halftime
entertainment as well as on-site beverage and souvenir sales. Gates
open at 8am, opening ceremony begins at 9am and the competition
starts at 10am.
Says, Charlie St. Clair, Rally Executive Director, “we’re
thrilled to have the Hillclimb return to the 95th Laconia Motorcycle
Week. I hope everyone comes to help me cheer on these pro and amateur
climbers. Having participated in the event myself, it’s loud,
it’s very exciting, satisfying . . . and a heap of fun.”
Laconia Motorcycle Week® gives great appreciation to all of our
sponsors, especially our Presenting Sponsors: Progressive, AMSOIL,
American Iron Outfitters, the Naswa Resort and AARP as well as the
State of New Hampshire for their large financial support of our rally
each year.
Ride Safe and Keep Away from the Centerline!
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