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Rain doesn't stop hill climb

The Pennsylvania Hill Climb Association wrapped up its 2014 season this weekend with the second of two annual events in Weatherly.

Around 86 drivers made runs on the one-mile, six-turn course, which has been hosting hill climbs since 1960."It was a great weekend," said Joe Cybert, Weatherly Hill Climb Association president. "We had spectators out at every turn. I think it was a very nice turnout."It was a tale of two days for event organizers.Saturday brought lengthy periods of rain, and only 30 cars hit the course, but the sun returned in full force on Sunday."I think we have to do a better job of getting the word out that we run rain or shine," Cybert said. "That is something that held us back."The fastest time on Sunday belonged to Darryl Danko at 49.244 seconds in the Special 2 class. The previous class record belonged to Floyd Schrammeck, who completed the course in 51.235 seconds in 1993."We had several class records set this weekend, but no hill record," Cybert said.George Bowland holds the hill record, 47.592 seconds, set in the spring of 2012.The course, with a 340-foot elevation change, features several uphill straights and hairpin turns including one known as "The Wall.""It's a challenging course that tests you in every way," said Christopher King of New Hampshire. "We always love coming to Weatherly."Hill climbing also makes for a great spectator sport, especially at Weatherly, where cars usually get off the ground at the part of the course nicknamed "The Jump.""We always have a great time going around to the different events," said Lisa Lopez of Freeland. "Our uncle owns a Sportster and competes quite a bit. He really got us interested and helped us to understand the sport."Cybert said the hill climb always puts a positive spotlight on Weatherly and remains about more than racing."Local nonprofit organizations provided food and concessions all weekend," Cybert said. "Everyone gets involved."Hill climbers will return to Weatherly in June.

Jarrad Hedes/Times News A 1983 Mazda driven by Henry Pascucci pulls up to the starting line at the Weatherly Hill Climb on Sunday. Pascucci posted a 66.481-second run in the Improved Touring A class.