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Archive for the ‘Bike’ Category
Friday, May 6th, 2011
The most festive venues are going to be the Stage 1 Start in South Lake Tahoe, Stage 1 Finish at Northstar–at-Tahoe Resort (both May 15), and the Stage 2 Start in Squaw Valley USA, site of the 1960 Winter Olympics (May 16).
South Lake Tahoe to Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort via West Shore
The first option is following the peloton from the start (10:30 a.m.) in South Lake Tahoe as it makes its way west through the commercial core and onto Emerald Bay Road (between 11:09 a.m. – 11:16 a.m.) on the West Shore, then into Tahoe City (11:49 a.m. – 12:03 p.m.) and Kings Beach (12:11 p.m. – 12:29 p.m.). From Kings Beach, the riders will continue on Highway 28 to the East Shore, while spectators will turn north onto Highway 267 (Brockway Summit) and head to the finish line (3:12 p.m. – 4 p.m.)
South Lake Tahoe to Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort via East Shore
The second possibility has spectators taking in the start in South Lake Tahoe and experiencing the festivities at Lake Tahoe Expo at the Horizon Casino Resort after the riders have left. Spectators are then advised to head onto Highway 50, heading to the East Shore and catching the riders in Crystal Bay (12:15 p.m. – 12:34 p.m.) or Incline Village (between 12:21 p.m. – 12:40 p.m.), before making the turn north onto Highway 267 and getting to the Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort for the finish (3:12 p.m. – 4 p.m.).
Lake Tahoe’s Best Climbs – Kings of the Mountain
According to the region’s cycling gurus, some of the best spots are on a steep climb or at
the bottom of a precipitous descent.
1) Iconic Emerald Bay is one of Lake Tahoe’s most photographed areas and a fantastic spot to watch the racers, predicted to top the summit between 11:09 a.m. and 11:16 a.m. This is the first of three Kings of the Mountain race finishes for Stage 1. Parking here, on the West Shore, is tight with only two parking lots available: Eagle Falls Trail Head and Vikingsholm Visitors Center. Spectators’ best bet is to get there early.
2) Spooner Summit on the northeast corner of the lake, where Highways 50 and 28 intersect. It’s also where the cyclists will make the long and steady ascent to an elevation of 7,150 feet around 12:50 p.m. – 1:15 p.m. This is the second King of the Mountain finish. There are three parking lots here: Spooner Lake State Park, Snow Park and the Tahoe Rim Trail Access Road.
3) Brockway Summit on Highway 267 to 7,000 feet and is the last King of the Mountain finish, which is expected to take place between 3:03 p.m. and 3:52 p.m. Per the California Highway Patrol, Brockway Summit (Highway 267) will close 20 to 30 minutes before the race passes. Spectators who are interested in viewing the finish should be over the summit before the racers come through. Parking is extremely limited with just a few pull out stops and hiking trails parking.
And for those that just can’t get enough “carnage” during Stage 1, the descent of Emerald Bay on the West Shore has riders reaching speeds of 40 miles per hour into the flats of Homewood (11:30 a.m. – 11:40 a.m.). The Spooner Summit descent has cyclists going even faster – 45 miles per hour – as they descend back toward the lake to the tunnel at Cave Rock. After cresting Brockway Summit, the lead group will plunge down a rapid descent into a hard left turn onto Northstar Drive (3:09 p.m. – 4 p.m.), where both sprinters and climbers will setup for a high-speed blast to the finish line at Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort (3:12 p.m. – 4:03 p.m.).
4) As part of the Stage 2 route from Squaw Valley USA to Sacramento, May 16, the 1,000-foot climb up Old Highway 40 to scenic Rainbow Bridge (10:55 a.m. – 11:02 a.m.) offers spectacular views along with close ups of the riders. However, there is only one parking lot at this summit.
The Stage 2 Start at the Village at Squaw Valley (10:15 a.m.), under the Olympic Rings, might be a better option, especially as racers make a celebratory one-and-a-half laps around the village before departing onto Squaw Valley Road. Spectators can see cyclists fine tune their bikes before checking in with race officials, and after the start they can enjoy leisurely meals at nearby cafes and restaurants.
Other Ideal Viewing Venues – Special Viewing Parties
Lake Tahoe’s commercial cores are perfect for viewing the Stage 1 peloton as many are hosting special viewing parties, such as South Lake Tahoe’s MontBleu Resort, Casino & Spa, the official start of the race (10:30 a.m.), as well as Heavenly Village and Embassy Suites; Ski Run Blvd. (10:39 a.m. – 10:40 a.m.) the “Y,” where 89 and 50 intersect, a BMX Demo will be taking place showcasing Olympic medalists (10:47 p.m. – 10:50 a.m.); Homewood Moountain Ski Resort on the West Shore (11:45 a.m.); Tahoe Tree Company, just outside of Tahoe City on the West Shore (11:49 a.m. – 12:03 p.m.); Heritage Plaza in downtown Tahoe City; Tahoe Vista State Recreation Area in Tahoe Vista; Blue Onion Café and the Old Brockway Golf Course in Kings Beach (12:11 p.m. – 12:29 p.m.); the historic Crystal Bay casino corridor (12:15 p.m. – 12:34 p.m.); Incline Village on the North Shore (12:21 p.m. – 12:40 p.m.) with a party at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe; and Zephyr Cove on the East Shore (1:30 p.m.).
Along the Stage 2 route, a fantastic viewing spot is the Truckee “mousehole” (10:37 a.m. – 10:40 a.m.), the site of the King of the Mousehole Sprint, where Highway 89 crosses under the Union Pacific Railroad through a narrow 25-foot wide concrete arch structure, as well as along Donner Pass Road (10:38 a.m. – 10:42 a.m.).
All of these areas offer up parking lots (on a first-come, first-serve basis), dining options, shopping and bike rental companies for those that are geared up to ride. Many are also hosting festivities surrounding the 2011 Amgen tour of California, including family activities and bike expos. For a list of local businesses offering activities, where to park (a Google map), lodging packages and special events, visit www.TahoeAmgenTourofCalifornia.
Times for the Amgen Tour of California race are approximate, based on average speeds of the peloton and are subject to change. To ensure ideal viewing of the race, plan ahead for traffic delays. The visitor bureaus encourage spectators to abide by the “pack-in pack-out” motto to help keep our national treasure clean, as well as bike or walk to key race viewing points. For real time updates during the race, visit www.AmgenTourofCalifornia.com or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
For a complete calendar of Tahoe’s 10-Day Countown, events leading up to the race (May 5-14), as well as activities during Stage 1 (May 15) and Stage 2 (May 16), click to www.AmgenTourofCalifornia.com.
For best viewing points, where to catch the riders up close, a complete list of events and lodging accommodations, click to www.TahoeAmgenTourofCalifornia.com follow us on Twitter and Facebook. For details about the Tour and information about volunteering, visit www.amgentourofcalifornia.com.
Tags: cycling, north lake tahoe, tahoe
Posted in Amgen Tour of California, Bike, Events, Incline Village, Kings Beach, Tahoe City, truckee | No Comments »
Friday, April 22nd, 2011
Registration is now open for Amgen’s Breakaway Mile in North Lake Tahoe at the Village at Northstar, taking place in conjunction with Stage 1 of the 2011 Amgen Tour of California on Sunday, May 15.
The Breakaway Mile is a walk to honor the millions of cancer survivors worldwide that ends at the North Lake Tahoe Amgen Tour of California finish line prior to the day’s finish of the professional race. Participants not only have the opportunity to walk along the racecourse, but also are invited to view the race action from a reserved area near the finish line complete with refreshments. Each Breakaway Mile also features an Amgen scientist who plays a crucial role in developing breakthrough medicines. Registration is limited to the first 150 people. Sign up here.
The Breakaway Mile also shines the spotlight on one special local person. A local Breakaway from Cancer® Champion, who has made a positive impact and acted as an inspiration for those affected by cancer, will lead the Breakaway Mile through the Village at Northstar. Online nominations were accepted from February 25 to March 25 to identify candidates and online voting is now available to select the local Breakaway from Cancer Champion. There are three Lake Tahoe finalists: Ruth Geresy, Stuart Jed and Alan Tolhurst. Vote online now. Only one vote per person and online voting closes April 27.
The activities are part of Amgen’s Breakaway from Cancer initiative, which represents a partnership between Amgen and four nonprofit organizations to raise awareness of the broad range of support services available to patients and caregivers – from prevention through survivorship.
Breakaway from Cancer Champions will be granted special access to the 2011 Amgen Tour of California, award a jersey to a professional cyclist, be recognized on stage, and lead the Breakaway Mile through their community.
Tags: breakaway from cancer, Breakaway Mile, northstar at tahoe
Posted in Amgen Tour of California, Bike | No Comments »
Friday, April 15th, 2011
Lake Tahoe has long been a training ground for some of the world’s best skiers and snowboarders, but its mountains have also provided professional cyclists with challenging terrain to better prepare themselves for the country’s most prestigious races, including the 2011 Amgen Tour of California.
Amid the parka-wearing, ski-toting residents and visitors, Lake Tahoe is home to an avid group of competitive cyclists who train year-round, both indoors and out. The go-to place for cyclists to improve athletic performance, especially during the winter months, is Performance JM in Truckee, owned by Olympic gold and silver medalist Julia Mancuso.
“Our cycling instructors are all competitive road racers, triathletes or mountain bike racers, who specifically work with Olympic athletes, professionals, as well as aspiring athletes,” said Fitness Director Chris Cloyd.
Cyclists here have the advantage of training at altitude, 6,200 feet, which helps provide endurance athletes with a training advantage. The facility is equipped with all the latest technological advances to take athletes to that next level of competition.
To get riders in the saddle and out on the open road among the region’s renowned alpine lakes and forested setting, Lake Tahoe’s cycling gurus have a long list of the best routes that get the nod from the professionals.
 According to Gary Bell, owner of Sierra Ski and Cycle Works in South Lake Tahoe, anyone who rides a bike should take to the 72-mile course around Tahoe’s lakeshore, part of the race’s Stage 1, at least once in a lifetime.
As recently as last summer, local cyclists reported sightings of American professional cyclist Levi Leipheimer, a three-time winner of the Amgen Tour of California, training along the lake’s picturesque West Shore.
Paco Lindsay of Paco’s Truckee Bike and Ski in Truckee recommends adding an additional leg to the Lake Tahoe-lake loop.
“Blackwood Canyon on the West Shore is a fantastic add-on to the around-Tahoe excursion,” said Lindsay. “The turn off is three miles south of Tahoe City at Kaspian Campground. The road is paved and winds all the way up to Barker Pass, gaining approximately 1,300 feet in elevation from lake level.”
But Leipheimer isn’t the first professional cyclist to train Lake Tahoe, nor will he be the last. According to Rich Staley, owner of Great Basin Bicycles in Reno, Nevada, Greg LeMond, three-time Tour of France winner and Reno native, included Tahoe as part of his rigorous training regime.
“LeMond would ride from Washoe to Virginia City to Carson City (Nevada), then up Highway 50 to Spooner Summit (7,200 feet), onto Mount Rose along Highway 431 (8,260 feet) and back to his house in Washoe.”
According to Staley, this loop is also one of the most popular rides in the area.
Another classic training ride incorporates a Lake Tahoe icon – Rainbow Bridge.
“Hands down one of the best rides is from Truckee to Cisco Grove (California),” said Hardy Bullock, the Elijah Bleu’s race team captain. One of Truckee’s newest coffee shops, Elijah Bleu’s is just as serious about cycling as they are about their java.
“The climb along Old Highway 40 is famous for Rainbow Bridge built back in 1926, its spectacular views of Donner Lake and the 1,000-foot + climb,” said Bullock. It’s also part of the Stage 2 route for the Amgen Tour of California.
Dean Schaecher, another of Lake Tahoe’s avid cyclists and owner of The Pour House, a Truckee-based hip wine shop and tasting bar, agrees.
“This is a classic training route that all the racers use as a benchmark of their fitness,” said Schaecher. “They can quote you their best time on the course on any given year. There are many great rides in Lake Tahoe, but Donner is THE one.”
Bullock also recommends Martis Peak on Highway 267, an out-and-back from Truckee, as an ideal route. It also happens to be his own personal favorite, and is the toughest ride his team trains on. The professional cyclists competing in the Amgen Tour of California will also hit Brockway Summit, but will be coming from Kings Beach, California, the last significant hill climb before the Stage 1 finish at Northstar-at-Tahoe.
“The ride is approximately 40 miles roundtrip, with the first 10 miles flat across Truckee’s Martis Valley then moving into a steep 10-mile climb to Brockway Summit, at approximately 7,200 feet” said Bullock.
Cycling enthusiasts new to the area or those that enjoy the camaraderie of riding in a group can also take to the road in the Start at the Top – Lake Tahoe Legends Ride.
The ride, part of Lake Tahoe’s 10-Day Countdown and held just prior to the kick-off of the 2011 Amgen Tour of California, is scheduled for Saturday, May 14. It explores the majority of the first lap of Stage 1, and gives riders a chance to rub elbows with cycling legends, such as Bobby Julich, Sky ProCycling Race Coach and 2004 Olympic Bronze Medalist.
Whatever training ride undertaken, recreational or competitive, the pros tend to end the day at one of Lake Tahoe’s many watering holes with the traditional Tahoe cycling, post-ride beverage of choice: beer, of course.
Find the best viewing points, where to catch the riders up close, a complete list of events and lodging accommodations online. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook. For details about the Tour and information about volunteering, visit online.
Tags: Amgen Tour of California, cycling, Greg LeMond, Julia Mancuso, Levi Leipheimer, training
Posted in Amgen Tour of California, Bike, Events, Kings Beach, Tahoe City, truckee | No Comments »
Thursday, March 24th, 2011
Cycling enthusiasts can ride the route during the Start at the Top – Lake Tahoe Legends Ride, Saturday, May 14, and explore majority of the first lap of the 2011 Amgen Tour of California Stage 1.The tour is considered the largest cycling event in North America as the peloton races nearly 800 miles and visits 15 cities in eight days, attracting approximately two million spectators.
The Legends Ride allows participants to ride the Stage 1 course of the 2011 Amgen Tour of California and pedal elbow to elbow with cycling legends and dignitaries, including Bobby Julich, Sky ProCycling Race Coach and 2004 Olympic Bronze Medalist; and John Howard, who rode on the 1968, 1972 and 1976 Olympic Teams, set the world 24-hour cycling distance record of 593 miles and finished second in the Race Across America (1982), which he co-founded. Other legends include Max Jones, Mike Neel, David Brink and Roland Della Santa.
The Legends Ride is produced by TGFT Productions and Bike the West and is fully supported with rest stops, technical support, first aid and support and gear assistance. Options include a 72-mile roadway route around Lake Tahoe and a 35-mile ride that transfers participants from South Shore to North Lake Tahoe via the Tahoe Queen paddle wheeler to cycle around East Shore and finish in Stateline, Nev. A sightseeing boat cruise is available for non-cyclists.
The event is open to the first 1,000 cyclists who sign-up online by April 30. Registration is $125/person for the 72-mile ride, and $140 /person for the Boat Cruise +35-mile option, which is expected to sell out.
Pre-registered participants will receive a Lake Tahoe welcome bag with a commemorative event number, wrist-band, water bottle, ride pin and t-shirt. They also have the benefits of food and beverages at rest stops along the route, lunch and an after ride pasta feed with live music.
The Start at the Top – Lake Tahoe Legends Ride is supported by the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority and the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association as well as cycling clubs, organizations and advocacy groups in and around the Lake Tahoe region: The Alta Alpina Cycling Club, Alta Alpina Challenge – Riding the Wild Sierra; the Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition – Tahoe Bike Challenge: the North Lake Tahoe Music Dept., the Tahoe Sierra Century Ride: the Tahoe Area Mountain Bike Association and the Nevada Bicycle Advisory Board.
Check-in for pre-registered cyclists and late registration is Friday, May 13, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., at the Horizon Casino Resort Convention Center Ballroom in Stateline, South Shore Lake Tahoe. Confirmation number and identification are required to pick up materials.
Late and same day registration is May 14, will be in Parking Lot C of the Horizon Casino Resort, from 6 – 7 a.m. For details about start times and location, visit Bike the West online.
TGFT Productions / Bike the West also produces the 20th Annual America’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride – Lake Tahoe, June 5; Tour of the Carson Valley – Barbecue & Ice Cream Social, June 26; Tour de Tahoe – Bike Big Blue, September 11 and 20th Annual OATBRAN – “One Awesome Tour Bike Ride Across Nevada, Sept 25-Oct 1.
Tags: Amgen Tour of California, bike the west, cycling, legends
Posted in Amgen Tour of California, Bike, Events | No Comments »
Monday, March 21st, 2011
The party starts at the top too! Lake Tahoe is hosting a 10-day celebration as a countdown before the largest cycling event in North America, the 2011 Amgen Tour of California, with concerts, family activities and bike-related events, May 5-14, in preparation for the Stage 1 Start and Finish of the race (May 15) and the Stage 2 Start (May 16).
Lake Tahoe Basin residents and cycling enthusiasts are pumped to make Tahoe’s 10-Day Countdown to the tour special and like no other event with Cinco de Mayo parties, the Opening Gala and Team Introduction, Lake Tahoe Legends Ride, Spirit Bike Parade, wine dinners, showroom entertainment, live music and more. The tour’s Local Organizing Committee invites visitors and residents to grab their bike helmets and hold on as the countdown to the tour begins…
Ten (May 5)…
The Hard Rock Cafe at Harveys Lake Tahoe is hosting the official b kick-off party, Friday, May 5, with percentage of the evening’s proceeds donated to Amgen’s title sponsor, Breakaway from Cancer, an initiative that helps empower people affected by cancer.
Observing the May 5 kickoff, what better way to celebrate than going to as many Cinco de Mayo parties as possible? The Blue Agave, Tahoe Biltmore Lodge & Casino and the Crystal Bay Club Casino are all hosting festive parties to commemorate the launch of the 2011 Amgen Tour of California.
Nine (May 6)…
Sammy Hagar and the Wabos will be playing at Harrah’s South Shore Room on Friday, May 6 and Saturday, May 7, while the historic Bar of America in Truckee will host DJ Zeb Early.
Eight (May 7)…
Tahoe’s nightclubs will be stocked and ready for weekend partiers. Opal, Vex and Crystal Bay Club, along with the Village at Squaw Valley, will keep the beats bumping May 6-7 and 13-14.
Seven, Six, Five (May 8-10)…
At South Shore casinos throughout the week, visitors and locals can view One Voice Starring Bethany Owen at the Horizon, The Improv at Harveys with host and emcee Howie Nave, and the infamous Party with Arty at Harrah’s South Lake Tahoe.
During the 10-day countdown, live music can be found at various venues around the lake, including: Cabo Wabo Cantina, Mc P’s Pub, Crystal Bay Club Casino and Bar of America.
Four (May 11)…
The Biking for a Better World Winemaker Dinner is Wed., May 11 at PlumpJack Squaw Valley Inn. Dinner will support an organization that brings accessibility to communities in need around the world.
Three (May 12)…
The Slow Rollers Bicycle Club presents the Spirit Bike Parade where all types of bikes and costumes are encouraged – almost mandatory. Bikes will be rolling from the “Y” (the intersection of HWY 89 and HWY 50) across town to the Stage 1 Start at MontBleu Resort Casino & Spa, on May 12.
In North Lake Tahoe, the Squaw Valley Institute hosts “Soulcycler, Around the World Bike Tour” with local photographer/cycling enthusiast, Rick Gunn.
Barton Health 2011 Lecture Series features topics ranging from nutrition, preventing injuries, maximizing performance and more. A local professional trainer will present ‘Pedaling to Peak Performance,’ at Embassy Suites, May 12, 6 – 8 p.m.
Two (May 13)…
The Opening Gala and Official Team Introduction is Friday, May 13 at MontBleu Resort Casino & Spa. For a black tie evening attendees will get to rub elbows with the pros, indulge in a four-course meal, host bar and silent auction. For tickets and details: 2011 Race Opening Gala.
The Village at Squaw Valley will hosts a free outdoor cycling movie, Breaking Away (1979), directed by Peter Yates and starring Dennis Quaid. And at the Crystal Bay Club, Jackie Greene and Band will have you moving and grooving until the early morning hours.
One (May 14)…
The inaugural Start at the Top – Lake Tahoe Legends Ride, allows cycling enthusiasts to ride the Stage 1 first lap and compare their time to the pros, Saturday, May 14.
The North Lake Tahoe Bike Swap, the Tahoe City Street Dance: right downtown, right under the stars and the 3rd Annual Wellness Weekend at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe all take place on May 14.
Eric Burdon & the Animals will be playing at Harrah’s South Shore Room on the eve of the Stage 1 start, Saturday, May 14.
Throughout the first day of the race, various events will be taking place between the north and south shores of Lake Tahoe. For full details and a schedule of events.
Amgen Tour of California Overall Start…(May 15)
Stage 1 of the 2011 Amgen Tour of California is Sunday, May 15. The peloton begins at its highest start elevation in six years, 6,300 feet above sea level in South Lake Tahoe. After a lap and a half around the Lake, Stage 1 finishes at Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort. Stage 2 starts at Squaw Valley USA on Monday, May 16.
As part of the Stage 1 start on May 15, a special program, Breakaway from Cancer, will honor a Lake Tahoe cancer survivor, patient, caregiver or advocate who has made a difference within their community or proved an inspiration. In addition to leading the walk just prior to the Stage 1 finish at Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort, Lake Tahoe’s designee, a resident of the area, will receive special access to the tour, podium recognition and presentation ceremony involvement. Nominations from the public will be accepted online through Tuesday, March 22.
The Lifestyle Festival is May 15, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., at the Stage 1 Finish at Northstar-at-Tahoe, and will feature a health and fitness expo, cancer awareness education, cycling gear, family activities, bike safety, food and entertainment.
Find the best viewing points, where to catch the riders up close, a complete list of events and lodging accommodations. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook. For details about the Tour and information about volunteering, visit Amgen Tour of California.
Tags: amgen, cycling, live music, Lodging, Party
Posted in Amgen Tour of California, Bike, Culture, entertainment, Events | No Comments »
Thursday, March 17th, 2011
A world-class field of professional cycling teams, rivaling every other stage race in 2011, has once again been assembled for the upcoming Amgen Tour of California, the largest cycling event in America, which will travel nearly 800 miles throughout California from May 15 – 22, 2011. Announced today by AEG, presenter of the race, the lineup of teams includes 19 elite international and domestic squads, ensuring a spectacular racing competition for the sixth-annual event.
With the race’s move on the calendar to May last year, the Amgen Tour of California has further solidified its position as one of the most important cycling races in the world by continuing to draw the strongest and most talented field of teams ever assembled for a U.S. cycling race. This year is no exception.
The 19-team field is comprised of a collection of the world’s best professional cycling teams, including HTC-Highroad, the most successful team of the peloton with more than 400 wins since 2008, featuring sprint sensation Matthew Goss and promising young American Tejay Van Garderen; Team Garmin-Cervélo, one of the most powerful teams in the pro peloton with Americans David Zabriskie and Christian Vande Velde on the roster; three-time Amgen Tour of California champion Levi Leipheimer’s team, Team RadioShack; Sky ProCycling, which features last year’s overall Amgen Tour of California winner Michael Rogers; Saxo Bank Sungard, whose prolific sprinter Juan Jose Haedo will be looking to add to his five Amgen Tour of California stage wins this year; Rabobank Cycling Team, which includes Australian U23 world champion Michael Matthews; and BMC Racing Team, with veteran racing pro George Hincapie at the helm.
The 2011 Amgen Tour of California roster includes the following 19 teams:
UCI ProTeams
· Sky ProCycling (GBR)
· Rabobank Cycling Team (NED)
· Team Garmin-Cervélo (USA)
· HTC-Highroad (USA)
· Team RadioShack ( USA)
· Liquigas-Cannondale (ITA)
· Saxo Bank Sungard (DEN)
· Leopard Trek (LUX)
· BMC Racing Team (USA)
UCI Professional Continental Teams
· Team NetApp (GER)
· Team Type 1-sanofi aventis (USA)
· Team Spidertech Powered By C10 (CAN)
· UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling (USA)
UCI Continental Teams
· Movistar Team (COL)
· Jamis-Sutter Home (USA)
· Kelly Benefit Strategies – Optum Health (USA)
· Bissell Pro Cycling (USA)
· Jelly Belly p/b Kenda (USA)
· Kenda/5-Hour Energy Pro Cycling p/b Geargrinder (USA)
See team information along with jerseys and links to their websites.
“The caliber of teams participating in the Amgen Tour of California seems to grow with each passing year, which is a great testament to the status of our race on the professional racing calendar,” said Andrew Messick, president of AEG Sports. “Beyond the incredible talent of Tour de France competitors, world champions, Olympic Champions and internationally known cyclists, is the amazing talent of up and coming American cyclists, like Peter Stetina of Team Garmin-Cervélo, Ben King of Team RadioShack and Tejay Van Garderen of HTC-Highroad. I am thrilled that our race gives them the opportunity to build their profile among cycling in the U.S.”
There are a total of 14 teams returning to the Amgen Tour of California for 2011, including: Bissell Pro Cycling; BMC Racing Team; HTC-Highroad; Jamis-Sutter Home (formerly Colavita-Sutter Home); Jelly Belly p/b Kenda; Kelly Benefit Strategies-Optum Health; Liquigas-Cannondale; Rabobank Cycling Team; Saxo Bank Sungard; Team Garmin-Cervélo, Team RadioShack; Team Spidertech Powered by C10; Team Type 1-sanofi aventis; and UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling.
“The Amgen Tour of California has become one of the world’s great sporting events,” said Bob Stapleton, owner of HTC-Highroad. “With its epic stages in Tahoe, the central coast and Mt Baldy, it’s a spectacle only exceeded in cycling by the Tour de France. Our home state provides a stunning setting for athletes, spectators and a world-wide television audience.”
Teams new to the Amgen Tour of California roster include Kenda/5-Hour Energy Pro Cycling p/b Geargrinder; Leopard Trek; Movistar; Sky ProCycling; and Team NetApp.
“The Amgen Tour of California is one of world’s greatest showcases for professional cycling full stop. The atmosphere, the fans and the race as such is something truly special and we are very happy to participate with a strong line-up for Leopard Trek,” said Brian Nygaard, general manager of Leopard Trek. “It is without a doubt one of our big goals of the season, and we look forward to racing one of the most scenic and attractive races of the season with the highest ambitions.”
Get more information about the teams competing in the 2011 Amgen Tour of California. Book travel and accommodations for the Lake Tahoe stages of the tour.
Tags: Amgen Tour of California, cycling, Lake Tahoe, race, teams
Posted in Amgen Tour of California, Bike | No Comments »
Friday, March 4th, 2011
Breakaway from Cancer is looking for nominations for “Breakaway from Cancer” Champions for 2011. Five individuals – one from each of the 2011 Amgen Tour of California communities of Lake Tahoe, Sacramento, Modesto, Paso Robles, and the Conejo Valley (Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, and Agoura Hills) – who have made a positive impact and acted as an inspiration to those affected by cancer within their community will be selected as the “Breakaway from Cancer” Champions.
“Breakaway from Cancer” Champions are granted special access to the 2011 Amgen Tour of California, award a jersey to a professional cyclist, be recognized on stage, and lead the Breakaway Mile through their community. Sponsored by Amgen, the Breakaway Mile takes place at the finish line of the Amgen Tour of California to honor the millions of cancer survivors worldwide.
Read more about Breakaway from Cancer and nominate a Champion here.
Beginning with the inaugural race in 2006, the Amgen Tour of California quickly became the most successful race in the United States with economic benefits to the state, global recognition and a high level of competition. The race also set records in attendance for a single sporting event in California, as well as any cycling event ever held on U.S. soil, with more than 2 million spectators in previous years.
The North Lake Tahoe Resort Association and the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority are spearheading promotional and sponsorship efforts for the Lake Tahoe Stage 1 Start, Stage 1 Finish and Stage 2 Start, and serve on the Amgen Tour of California Lake Tahoe Local Organizing Committee. Stage 1 of the race is presented by Michelob Ultra, and Stage 2 is presented by the California Travel & Tourism Commission (CTTC).
In previous years, the race has drawn some of the world’s most recognizable and respected riders, such as top Tour de France competitors, world champions and Olympic medalists including Tom Boonen, Oscar Freire, Paolo Bettini, Fabian Cancellara, Carlos Sastre, Ivan Basso, George Hincapie, Mark Cavendish and Andy Schleck.
Learn about the best viewing points, where to catch the riders up close, a complete list of events (including the Tahoe 10-Day Countdown leading up to the race) and lodging accommodations.
Tags: amgen, cancer, cycling, tahoe
Posted in Bike, Events | No Comments »
Tuesday, February 22nd, 2011
The 2011 Amgen Tour of California, the largest cycling event in North America, has posted volunteer opportunities for the race including opportunities for Stage 1 and 2 in Lake Tahoe.
Approximately 500 volunteers are needed for the Overall Start, Sunday, May 15 in South Lake Tahoe and the Stage 1 Finish in North Lake Tahoe at Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort, as well as the Stage 2 Start taking place nearby at Squaw Valley USA on Monday, May 16.
Several assistants are needed to provide support for the 75 professional course marshals who travel with the tour and help the local law enforcement agencies. They’ll have an opportunity to be on the race routes, close to the cyclists, with responsibility for monitoring pedestrian traffic, barricades and road closures.
According to the race officials, more than 4,500 volunteers in communities throughout the state participated in last year’s race, making it seamless and successful from start to finish and solidifying it as the largest sporting event in the state of California.
Positions include:
- Course Marshals will be assigned a designated area along the racecourse to assist with the coordination and safety of the field of play for all race venues. They’ll aid in keeping the course clear of pedestrians, spectators, cars, etc., and will keep spectators informed as the race in is progress. These positions are for local stages only; traveling Course Marshals are not being recruited at this time.
- Media in Start Cities will help with the distribution of media credentials at check-in. Volunteers in Finish cities will support tour media operations staff in the media office, including credential distribution, serving as “runners,” and assisting with general Q&A and office set-up.
- Security will work with Tour Security Staff regarding access-control, including on-course, hospitality, awards, green room and press conferences (special Security t-shirt will be provided).
- Volunteer Check-in will assist LOC Volunteer Coordinator with set-up, check-in/registration.
Volunteers must be 18 or older or accompanied by an adult. The online sign-up form allows individuals to rank their top-three job preferences with every attempt made to match their area of interest. Respondents will be notified soon thereafter by the local organizing committee.
Volunteers for the Amgen Tour of California have the opportunity to help showcase all that Lake Tahoe has to offer. They’ll serve as more than just volunteers; they’ll be ambassadors for the entire Lake Tahoe region.
Beginning with the inaugural race in 2006, the Amgen Tour of California quickly became the most successful race in the United States with economic benefits to the state, global recognition and a high level of competition. The race also set records in attendance for a single sporting event in California, as well as any cycling event ever held on U.S. soil, with more than 2 million spectators in previous years.
The North Lake Tahoe Resort Association and the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority are spearheading promotional and sponsorship efforts for the Lake Tahoe Stage 1 Start, Stage 1 Finish and Stage 2 Start, and serve on the Amgen Tour of California Lake Tahoe Local Organizing Committee. Stage 1 of the race is presented by Michelob Ultra, and Stage 2 is presented by the California Travel & Tourism Commission (CTTC).
In previous years, the race has drawn some of the world’s most recognizable and respected riders, such as top Tour de France competitors, world champions and Olympic medalists including Tom Boonen, Oscar Freire, Paolo Bettini, Fabian Cancellara, Carlos Sastre, Ivan Basso, George Hincapie, Mark Cavendish and Andy Schleck.
Read more about Stage 1 and Stage 2 of the race. Learn about the best viewing points, where to catch the riders up close, a complete list of events (including the Tahoe 10-Day Countdown leading up to the race) and lodging accommodations. Get details on the overall Amgen Tour of California here.
Tags: Amgen Tour of California, cycling, Lake Tahoe, Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort, race, Squaw Valley USA, Tahoe City, volunteer
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Wednesday, February 9th, 2011
Lake Tahoe is pulling out all the stops to provide cyclists and spectators with an unforgettable experience during the 2011 Amgen Tour of California. After the fantastic Stage 1 finish at Northstar-At-Tahoe North Lake Tahoe hosts the Stage 2 Start at Squaw Valley USA, home of the 1960 Winter Olympics, Monday, May 16. The action starts directly under the historic Olympic rings at the center of the Village at Squaw Valley with riders peddling the cobbled corridors before turning onto Squaw Valley Road and then descending to the Olympic Flame entrance and a left-hand turn onto Highway 89.
The peloton follows the picturesque Truckee River corridor as they make their way on Highway 89 toward Truckee and through the two roundabouts near the Interstate 80 overpass. Riders will then turn left onto historic Donner Pass Road before riding the ramp over Interstate 80 and past Donner Memorial State Park, home to the infamous Donner Party.
The pack continues along the northern shoreline of Donner Lake as they make their approach to the steeps of Old Highway 40 on their way to Donner Summit and the day’s first King of the Mountain finish. With some of the best views of the approaching riders and Donner Lake far below, this spot is sure to jammed-packed with enthusiastic spectators.
From there, athletes speed pass Sugar Bowl Ski Resort, Donner Ranch Ski Resort and Soda Springs Ski Resort and descend into California’s Gold Country via Highway 20 and the finish line for Stage 2 at the Sacramento State Capitol.
In previous years, the race has drawn some of the world’s most recognizable and respected riders, such as top Tour de France competitors, world champions and Olympic medalists including Lance Armstrong, Tom Boonen, Oscar Freire, Paolo Bettini, Fabian Cancellara, Carlos Sastre, Ivan Basso, George Hincapie, Mark Cavendish and Andy Schleck.
The 2011 Amgen Tour of California will cover 800 miles and visit 15 Host Cities for official stage starts and finishes, while other cities along the route also will have the opportunity to witness the excitement of elite professional cycling. Stages for the 2011 Amgen Tour of California include:
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Stage 1: Sunday, May 15 – South Lake Tahoe to North Lake Tahoe-Northstar at Tahoe Resort
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Stage 2: Monday, May 16 – North Lake Tahoe-Squaw Valley USA to Sacramento
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Stage 3: Tuesday, May 17 – Auburn to Modesto
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Stage 4: Wednesday, May 18 – Livermore to San Jose
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Stage 5: Thursday, May 19 – Seaside to Paso Robles
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Stage 6: Friday, May 20 – Solvang Individual Time Trial
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Stage 7: Saturday, May 21 – Claremont to Mt. Baldy
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Stage 8: Sunday, May 22 – Santa Clarita to Thousand Oaks
Get details on best viewing points, where to catch the riders up close, a complete list of events (including the Tahoe 10-Day Countdown leading up to the race) and lodging accommodations, and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
Tags: Amgen Tour of California, cycling, north lake tahoe, race
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Wednesday, February 9th, 2011
 The routes for Stage 1 and Stage 2 of the 2011 Amgen Tour of California, the largest cycling event in North America, are now confirmed.
Lake Tahoe’s first-ever involvement in the race as the official Overall Start is Sunday, May 15 and begins at South Lake Tahoe at 6,300 feet, the highest start elevation in the six-year history of the competition. Stage 1 wraps up in North Lake Tahoe at Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort, with the Stage 2 Start taking place nearby at Squaw Valley USA on Monday, May 16.
Cyclists begin at MontBleu Resort Casino & Spa on the California/Nevada border in South Lake Tahoe. The peloton will loop past Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course around Heavenly Village, past the starting line again and onto Lake Tahoe Boulevard (Highway 50) through the casino corridor then clockwise around the 72-mile perimeter of Lake Tahoe.
Riders will gain 700 feet in elevation as they wind up switchbacks on the West Shore. Upon reaching the top of scenic Emerald Bay, one of the most photographed places in the world and the first of three King of the Mountain finishes, they will descend 500 feet while exceeding speeds of 40 miles per hour until the flats of Homewood, home to Lake Tahoe’s oldest marina. Athletes will cruise along the historic West Shore, making their way to North Lake Tahoe and the heart of downtown Tahoe City and then on to Kings Beach.
Cyclists leave the California side of the lake and enter Nevada, the first out-of-state course for the Tour, and pass through Incline Village. The group will skirt by spectacular Sand Harbor State Park and the legendary Thunderbird Lodge along the East Shore at lake level before a long and steady 1,000-foot ascent to Spooner Summit at an elevation of 7,150 feet.
Speeds here will increase to 45 miles per hour as they descend back toward the lake and through the tunnel at Cave Rock. Racers will then pass Zephyr Cove Resort, returning to Stateline, Nevada, the scene of the overall start.
After crossing the state line and back into California at South Shore, the peloton returns to Emerald Bay with its remarkable views and the second King of the Mountain finish. Here some riders may gain separation from the pack before their second descent onto the West Shore.
After passing Tahoe City for a second time, there’s a short ascent to Dollar Point before turning left up Brockway Summit (Highway 267) at North Lake Tahoe to 7,000 feet and one last chance for the climbers to dictate the race outcome with the third and final King of the Mountain finish. After cresting the summit, the lead group plunges down a rapid descent into a hard left turn onto Northstar Drive, where both sprinters and climbers will set-up for a high-speed blast to the finish line at Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort.
The spectator-packed finish line is also home to the Amgen Tour of California Lifestyle Festival, which features a health and fitness expo, cancer awareness education, cycling gear, family activities, bike safety, food and entertainment. Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort will also host a Break Away from Cancer Walk on Sunday, May 15.
Upon completing Stage 1, competitors will have ridden a lap-and-a-half around Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in the country, conquering 119 miles and three mountains passes in approximately five hours and a total elevation gain of 5,500 feet.
View the complete route map here. Stay up to date with Amgen’s Tour of Califonia Tahoe stages by liking us on Facebook.
Tags: Amgen Tour of California, cycling, race
Posted in Bike, Events, Incline Village, Kings Beach, Sand Harbor, Tahoe City | No Comments »
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