Great American Championship Motorcycle Hill Climb - Billings

Friday, July 29, 2011 - Sunday, July 31, 2011

The Great American is the largest, oldest and richest hill climb in the United States held for over 93 years at the Billings Motorcycle Club - Motorcycle Hill Climbing Capital of the World - Billings, Montana.

The Great American Championship Motorcycle Hill Climb is an institution in motorcycle history. Celebrating its 92nd anniversary, the Great American offers some of the most premier, technical hill climb action anywhere. Nationally known racers like Jeremy McGrath, Pete Krunich, past champions Shannon Chamberlain and Davey Johnson, and rising star Petey Krunich have attempted to conquer the hill. Some have succeeded and others have taken breath-taking tumbles down the 420-foot shale hill that is near vertical in several spots.

For a piece of the purse, now over $40,000 cash, the risks are worth it.

Every year the almost 10,000 people attending the three day extravaganza are treated to a fantastic extreme motor sport show on two separate hills, the pro-money hill and the equally technical trophy hill. Just as exciting is the show put on by the catchers, the men who tackle the bikes and riders when they take a tumble. Watching these guys hang from ropes while restraining a 300+ pound motorcycle, sometimes in mid-air, is a show unto itself.

In addition to the great rides and falls, the great welcome that the City of Billings puts on for the fans makes this hill climb a fantastic event. Special shuttle service is offered to bring people from town out to the hill with curbside service. Spacious, air-conditioned tents and food and beverage services are provided for shuttle passengers. While 10,000 people are typically in attendance throughout the three-day event, parking and space is unlimited. Vendors are on site with great food and cold drinks to make you comfortable.

Visitors are invited to tailgate at their vehicles, mingle with locals on the 'beach' or spread out in the spectator areas and generally have a great time.

While coolers are allowed, they will be inspected, as alcohol cannot be brought onto the premises. Beer will be available on site for prices comparable to those in town.