Phillip Franz was inducted in the Greater Cleveland Sports Hall of Fame for his achievements in and contributions to the sport of professional motorcycle hillclimbing. His career began in 1953 at the age of 16 while attending John Marshall High School. He competed for 22 years before retiring in 1974. Phil was instrumental in bringing the sport to Cleveland in the 1970's. Through his efforts (and others), the (former) Cloverleaf Speedway agreed to hold an annual hillclimb on their property. This continued for a number of years until construction of a road at the top of the hill made the use of the hill for competition impractical. In addition to competing, he supported the events by promoting it to local motorcycle dealerships, recruiting them to promote the even and getting them to sell tickets at their stores.

Phil currently serves on the American Motorcycle Association Hall of Fame Selection Committee.

Phil has been featured on Good Morning Cleveland.