Pikes Peak: Lia Block’s Thrilling Tribute Run in a 1,400-horsepower Porsche 911
Pikes Peak has always been a daunting challenge for even the most experienced racers, let alone those who have little to no experience in high-powered race cars. So when 16-year-old Lia Block announced that she would be driving her father’s 1,400-horsepower Hoonipigasus Porsche 911 up the hill during this year’s hill climb, it was expected that she would take it easy.
Well, let’s just say that she didn’t.
In a recent Hoonigan video, the story of Ken Block’s daughter conquering the climb that he started in 2022 is told. And let me tell you, this 48-minute mini-documentary is bound to bring a tear or two to your eyes. Even if you’re not a fan of the Block family, the emotions captured in this video are undeniable. Witnessing the overwhelming joy and pride when Lia crosses the finish line is truly a sight to behold. But, I digress, you clicked on this article for some thrilling action, not for a sob-fest. And trust me, Lia delivers.
Before we get into that, let’s talk about the beast she was driving. The Hoonipigasus Porsche 911 is a powerhouse, boasting a mind-boggling 1,400 horsepower. It’s safe to say that this car is anything but ordinary. So, armed with this high-performance monster, Lia embarked on her journey up the treacherous Pikes Peak.
The video begins with Lia getting acquainted with the car just two days before her first practice run. At an undisclosed track in Colorado, she leaves the pit, hits the drag strip, and immediately tears through the gears with full throttle, reaching an impressive 130 mph. The enthusiasm and confidence she exudes is infectious, and it’s clear that she has no intention of holding back. As Lia succinctly puts it in the video, “Give me a fast car, and I’m going to go fast in it.”
The next day, she takes on a few more practice laps at another track, honing her skills and getting a feel for the Hoonipigasus. With limited time to prepare, her determination is admirable. And before you know it, Lia is ready to take on Pikes Peak itself.
In just four days, Lia goes from being a complete novice in both the Hoonipigasus and the Pikes Peak race to making a televised tribute run up the 12.4-mile stage. It’s an astonishing progression, and one that makes her accomplishment even more remarkable. So, as you watch the video, keep in mind how far she has come in such a short amount of time.
The footage captured throughout the documentary is nothing short of exhilarating. Multiple onboard shots provide a thrilling perspective from behind the wheel. One particular moment stands out, as Lia accelerates between corners, reaching a speed of 109 mph. Going 100 mph on Pikes Peak requires skill, and despite it being an untimed run, Lia’s performance is truly impressive for someone tackling both the car and the location for the first time. It’s no wonder she is the 2023 American Rally Association O2WD national champion.
But Pikes Peak is not the only focal point of this video. Lia’s journey is accompanied by a myriad of emotions, both for her and those around her. The joy, anticipation, and pride felt by her family, friends, and supporters are palpable. It’s a testament to the power of following one’s passion and overcoming challenges.
As Lia herself says in the video, “Being in that car, everything else goes away. You don’t think about driving off a cliff at any moment. It’s dangerous, but that’s part of the fun.” Her fearlessness and love for the sport are evident, and it’s clear that she has found her calling.
So, what’s next for Lia Block? Well, we can only imagine the incredible feats she will achieve in the future. One thing is for certain: her name will continue to make waves in the motorsport world. As we eagerly anticipate her next endeavor, let’s celebrate Lia’s remarkable tribute run up Pikes Peak and commend her for fearlessly chasing her dreams in the driver’s seat of a seriously overpowered Porsche.