Come See the Tour of California

A great cycling race will be rolling through California in the coming week, and if you get the chance to check it out, grab it! Whether you have never thought about the sport before, or whether you are a diehard fan, the Amgen Tour of California is a unique and uplifting way to spend a few hours. Competitors include some of the world’s best cyclists, and this is an opportunity to see these men fight to the finish in person. Plus, the festivities surrounding the race are an entertaining introduction to the world of pro cycling.

Scheduled to begin today at Lake Tahoe, the start of the Tour of California was delayed due to snowfall. Jumping straight to Stage 2, scheduled from Squaw Valley to Sacramento, the race is on for tomorrow, May 16^th. Following stages include Stage 3, Auburn to Modesto on May 17^th; Stage 4, Livermore to San Jose on May 18^th; Stage 5, Seaside to Paso Robles on May 19^th; Stage 6, the time trial circuit in Solvang on May 20^th; Stage 7, Claremont to Mt. Baldy on May 21^st; and the final Stage 8, Santa Clarita to Thousand Oaks on May 22^nd.

The routes and expected time tables are outlined on the Amgen Tour of California web site: http://www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/Route/stages.html. For each stage, you will find:

• Stage Map: an overview of the day’s route
• Stage Profile: a breakdown of the elevation over the course of the route
• Stage Log: directions for the route and expected racer arrival times at over 25 points along the course

Race starts include rider introductions and the cyclists gathered at the starting line with the race leader in the front. Each finishing city hosts a Lifestyle Festival open from 11am to 4:30pm, except in Solvang where the fun starts at 10am. Festivals feature food, music, and a big screen to watch the race live in action. Tour and team sponsors join other vendors hosting booths, often handing out free souvenirs or inviting kids and adults to play games. You will find bike shops, California travel information, LiveStrong gear, and more. When the race finally arrives, the winning rider of the day, as well as the other race leaders will be presented on the main stage.

You may be surprised by the festive and welcoming atmosphere at the start, along the route, and at the finish line. If the Tour of California is coming to a city near you, don’t miss it!