What a fantastic weekend it was at the Giants Despair Hillclimb! This historic venue has always been a favorite, and watching the top five drivers battle it out all weekend added to the excitement. For those unfamiliar with Giants Despair, let’s take a trip down memory lane.

The History of Giants Despair

The Giants Despair Hillclimb, located in Laurel Run, Pennsylvania, is one of the oldest continuously run hillc

Sundance Vacations sponsorship

Jody Miller Rides Again

limb events in the United States. Established in 1906, it has become a legendary venue for both drivers and fans. The 1.18-mile course boasts a 650-foot rise in elevation and a series of challenging turns that test the skill and courage of even the most seasoned drivers. Over the years, it has hosted some of the most famous names in motorsports, making it a cherished piece of racing history.

A Personal Triumph

This year, one of our employees’ sons’, Jody Miller took to the course with determination and a goal to beat his personal best. Here’s a recap of his journey:

“What a great weekend. Between driving one of my favorite events to watching the top 5 drivers battle it out all weekend was awesome!! I went into this weekend, without racing last year and having a time of 52.1 in 2022 to getting down to a 51.8. Took first place and beat my personal best which to me is more important anyhow. I watched this video a few times and decided there is without question more time out there. 51.8 is a respectable time for my car on this hill. 200 horsepower on a straight power needed hill and not a lot of areas to make up time, I’m happy with where I finished. I know where the time I need is, I just need to lock in mentally… either that or I’m coming in next year not driving a slow car fast anymore lol… maybe time to build it to run in the next level. We’ll see what happens. Thank you, Sundance Vacations and Keystone Timber and Forestry, for sponsoring me and thank you to all of the Giants Despair officials for running an incredible event. Last but not least thank you to my wife for supporting me and dealing with me chasing a passion I can’t seem to live without!!”

Celebrating the Achievements

Despite not racing last year, Jody returned with a determination to improve, clocking an impressive time of 51.8 seconds, surpassing his previous best of 52.1 seconds in 2022. Taking first place and achieving a new personal best was a significant milestone. His car, boasting 200 horsepower, tackled the hill’s challenging layout with precision and speed. This performance is a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport.

The Role of Sponsors

None of this would have been possible without the generous support of his sponsors, Sundance Vacations and Keystone Timber and Forestry. Their backing has been instrumental in his racing endeavors, allowing him to focus on honing his skills and achieving new heights.

Looking Ahead

With a new personal best under his belt, he’s already looking ahead to next year. Whether it means fine-tuning his current car or building something new to compete at an even higher level, one thing is certain: the passion for racing at Giants Despair burns brightly.

A big thank you to the Giants Despair officials for organizing such a remarkable event and to my son’s wife for her unwavering support. Racing is a passion that runs deep, and with the support of family, friends, and sponsors, the future looks incredibly promising.

For more information on the history of Giants Despair, visit Giants Despair Hillclimb. And to learn more about the fantastic sponsors, check out Sundance Vacations and Keystone Timber and Forestry.

It was indeed a weekend to remember, filled with thrilling races, personal achievements, and the promise of even greater things to come. Here’s to many more successful runs at the iconic Giants Despair Hillclimb!