Scott Speed Breaks Hillclimb Record at Mount Washington with Subaru WRX Project Midnight

Scott Speed and Subaru WRX Project Midnight Set New Record at Mount Washington

In an electrifying display of speed and precision, Scott Speed of Subaru Motorsports USA has set a new overall record at the Paul Giblin Memorial Climb to the Clouds held on Mount Washington. This remarkable achievement was accomplished during the event, where Speed piloted the Subaru WRX Project Midnight through the challenging terrain, clocking an impressive 511.982 seconds on the 7.6-mile Mount Washington Auto Road. Not only did he secure a stunning victory, but he also smashed the previous record by almost 17 seconds.

As the sun rose on the event weekend, Speed and his crew prepared meticulously, expecting stiff competition. The record-breaking attempt was preceded by two days filled with practice runs that fine-tuned both driver and machine for the ultimate challenge. While competitors aimed to climb the mountain, nature had its own plan. A dense fog formed over the course, leading organizers to modify the run on the initial day to eliminate the risk amid poor visibility.

Sunday presented a singular opportunity to conquer the full course. Once the fog lifted, Speed seized the moment, showcasing his skills and Project Midnight’s capabilities. The design of Project Midnight is purpose-built for such precise, high-speed performances. Equipped with specialized Yokohama ADVAN A005 slick tires, selected for their rapid grip and performance under racing conditions, the Subaru WRX came alive on the immaculate pavement.

Reflecting on his record-setting run, Speed expressed pure exhilaration, stating, “After I saw the time, it feels awesome! I’m glad to be able to throw down a time that was so much faster than any of us expected.” His run was not merely a race against the clock, but a mental game that required strategic thinking amidst the weather uncertainties. “With us going last, you can wait until it looks clear at the top and it still might not matter. This was the only time I ran the full mountain this weekend, and a lot of things had to go right,” Speed added appreciatively.

Subaru Motorsports USA continues to leave an indelible mark in the history of mountain racing, having now secured five overall records in five appearances at this storied event. Each achievement further solidifies the legacy of the brand in the realm of motorsport. With project Midnight being recognized as one of the most technologically advanced WRX race cars developed by Subaru, it embodies a perfect combination of lightweight performance, aerodynamics, and a powerful SUBARU BOXER engine – all enhanced by Speed’s considerable racing experience.

The success of this hillclimb run speaks volumes of the synergy between the driver and team, including the support from partners such as Yokohama. The race weekend not only showcased the capabilities of the Subaru WRX Project Midnight but also emphasized the importance of teamwork and preparation in achieving extraordinary results in competitive environments.

As fans and motorsport enthusiasts around the country celebrate this significant achievement, Subaru Motorsports USA invites everyone to follow their journey on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. The team’s commitment to excellence both on and off the track has contributed to Subaru’s reputation as a manufacturer dedicated to performance and community impact.

In a world where every second counts, Scott Speed's achievement during the climb solidifies his status as a powerhouse in motorsports while furthering the legacy of Subaru in competitive racing.