Showing posts with label California Cycling. Show all posts
Showing posts with label California Cycling. Show all posts

07 April 2016

Tour of California Host City activities: Stages 1 to 4

Tourist activities near the Amgen Tour of California in Southern California: Stage 1, Stage 2, Stage 3, and Stage 4.

WHAT TO DO IN CALIFORNIA - STAGE BY STAGE TOURIST IDEAS NEAR THE RACE
  • Tips on how to watch the Tour of California
  • Start and finish times of the Tour of California
  • VIP tickets and hours and Festival information at the Tour of California
  • California tourist ideas near the Tour of California
  • Route maps for stages 1, 2, 3, 4, of the Tour of California
As in life, balance in travel is a particularly good thing. The Amgen Tour of California covers some of the best tourists towns in California all within one-week. Enjoy the sea, mountains, beach towns, high mountain lakes, the beautiful wine country and the dramatic California coast. The stage race begins in San Diego and finishes in the state capital of Sacramento. Ride, hike, eat, stroll, relax, road trip and cheer on the best cyclists in the world including World Champion Peter Sagan, Mark Cavendish and Bradley Wiggins (read more about the riders attending).

Did you know that Visit California is a major sponsor of the Amgen Tour of California? Intentionally playing tourist on the sidelines of the Tour of California is a great idea. Take the day off of work or school, plan a short or long vacation, get together with friends or family or go alone (you won't truly be alone). If you are planning to see the bike race, why not take time to see other sights before or after the stage, dine and stay locally. Think of it as the best way to say thanks to the businesses and host cities who support bike racing.

Transfer to this page to see ideas on: Tour of California Host City activities: Stages 4-8.

2016 Tour of California Schedule:

Stage 1 - San Diego, May 15, 201, Sunday
Stage 2 - South Pasadena to Santa Clarita, May 16, 2016
Stage 3 - Thousand Oaks to Santa Barbara County, May 17, 2016
Stage 4 - Morro Bay to Monterey County, May 18, 2016
Stage 5 - Lodi to South Lake Tahoe, May 19, 2016
Stage 6 - Folsom Individual Time Trial & Women's Team Time Trial, May 20, 2016
Stage 7 - Santa Rosa, May 21, 2016
Stage 8 - Sacramento, May 22, 2016, Sunday


Please read the details of each stage at: Pedal Dancer® TOUR OF CALIFORNIA GUIDE PAGE for spectators.
Let the race begin. ©Photo by Karen Rakestraw of Pedal Dancer®
Be a tourist in California. It is a 9-hour drive from San Diego to San Francisco. VisitCalifornia.com regional map
Mission Bay, California - Home to the start of the 2016 Amgen Tour of California. Photo from ali.sdsu.edu/blog

SAN DIEGO   Stage 1 - San Diego to San Diego, Sunday, May 15, 2016 -

California Mexican food! Photo from oldtownmexcafe.com
The race begins in San Diego, the state's second largest city, on Sunday! Stage 1 centers in Mission Bay area near Sea World Theme Park (which recently stated the killer whales in captivity will be their last). The race starts at 11:30am and finishes around 3:40pm. Show up early to enjoy the area for the entire weekend. It thrilling to see the pro riders out training on the local roads, where most will test the KOM climb on the days before the race begins.

What to do in San Diego:
  • See the official Team Presentation, tickets $100 each, on Friday evening, About Tickets, Registration). 
  • About Mission Bay.
  • Rent a bike and pedal around Mission Bay: cheap-rentals.com (also rents kayaks and paddle boards), or Rays-rentals.com, or Radd Action Sports. Ride the Mission Bay bike path full loop. Detailed bike path loop with sights along the way. Other San Diego Bike path routes in the area.  
  • Get out and see the ocean. Take a boat trip: tripadvisor list; personally I am a big fan of Duffy boats (booze cruises) and sailboats.
  • Take a stroll along the beach on one of these 5 of San Diego’s Best Scenic Waterfront Walks.
  • See one of the big tourist sights like the San Diego Zoo or the USS Midway Museum; good with kids.
  • Venture north to La Jolla for a hybrid electric bike tour given by San Diego Fly Rides. Variety of guided tours offered. Or take a kayak tour in the ocean through the caves with LaJollaKayak.com.
  • Visit California offers ideas on where to watch a sunset view in La Jolla.
  • Bring your own bike and take a bike ride. Here is the interactive bike route map of San Diego area. Or take the decadent Stay Chocolatey San Diego Ride following the GPS Ambassador bike ride, 13-miles around San Diego.
  • Before or after the stage, take a stroll through old town and try casual Mexican food at Old Town Mexican Cafe, nearby Cafe Cayote, or El Agave Tequilaria. Or other Mexican restaurants in Old Town: Casa Guadalajara, or Fiesta de Reyes with their daily musical entertainment!
  • Or if you are coming and going from the north side via Mission Blvd, try the La Playa Taco Shop, combined with a sandy beach walk on the inner bay or outer ocean.
  • After the stage, make a reservation to enjoy the beautiful inner north Mission Bay setting at the Oceana Coastal Kitchen.
  • Visit California offers a 5-7 day Classic Hwy 1 Road Trip Tour of California. This year's Tour of California will pass through many of the spots highlighted on their tour.
  • On race day, join a Watch Party on route: 9 different watch parties are planned along the route of Stage 1, find a party.
  • There will be a watch party gathering at Veteren's Corner on route at Civita Bouldevard from 1:00-4:00pm
  • There will be a gathering, on route, in El Cajon on Main Steet, between 12:00-4:00 p.m. to watch the race.
  • There will be a gathering, on route, at the Sprints points segment in Imperial Beach, along Palm Avenue and Seacoast Drive between 11:30- 4:00 p.m..
  • Find your favorite spot anywhere along the route on race day, arrive early to avoid traffic and road closures: Stage 1 route map.
  • Check road closures and drive or ride your bike out to one of the sprint of KOM markers: Sprint locations: 1) Imperial Beach, 2) Navajo Road; KOM location: Honey Springs Road.
  • Ride your bike to the start/finish area: secure valet bike parking offered by Blind Stokers Club.
  • If you want to see the riders pre-race, find the team buses near the start area, or be near the sign-in stage (near the start line) by 10:00am. Riders must sign in 1-hour prior to start (11:30am).
  • Enjoy the Expo/Festival area between the start and finish. Fun free swag and vendors.
  • Participate in the Breakaway Mile: Register for the San Diego Breakaway Mile for cancer survivors and caretakers (prior to the men's race finish).
  • Stage 1 Festival Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM near the finish area: exposition and live music.
  • About the stage: Stage 1 starts starts at 11:30am and finishes around 3:40pm; Stage 1 VIP Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:30. Yes, VIP will be worth it in San Diego as VIP pass holders will have access to a VIP area at both the start and finish areas. Cost of VIP tickets in San Diego $209: Buy VIP Pass; Stage sponsors
  • Stage 1 start time is 11:30 AM (the San Diego Local Organizing Committee has wrongly printed the start time as 10:30am, this is incorrect). As at every other UCI race, riders must sign-in on the sign-in stage, at least one hour before the stage start. There is also a customary singing of the national anthem before the start; these proceedings are not considered the race start (affecting road closures).
A fan favorite, Mark Cavendish will be racing in California again this year. ©Photo by Karen Rakestraw of Pedal Dancer®

SOUTH PASADENA   Stage 2 - South Pasadena to Santa Clarita, Monday, May 16, 2016 - Stage 2 Map Link

The Huntington Library & Gardens
There are a number of key tourist sights on the drive between San Diego and Los Angeles County. Visit any of these places after watching the start of Stage 2 at 12:05pm in South Pasadena.

What to do near Pasadena: 
  • Ride (or drive) up Angeles Crest Highway to Big Tujunga Canyon to 1 of the 2 KOM markers.  Or ride/drive up to the KOMs in Little Tujunga Canyon (closer to the finish in Santa Clarita).
  • You are in the land of museums - take the time to visit one of the many excellent art museums near Pasadena: Norton-Simon Museum: 10-minute drive from South Pasadena; Huntington Library (art and gardens too): 10-minute drive from South Pasadena; The Getty Museum of Art: 45-minute drive from South Pasadena; Los Angeles County Museum of Art: 35-minute drive from South Pasadena.
  • Visit the famous landmarks of Los Angeles for a fantastic view: Hollywood sign a 30-minute drive from South Pasadena. Or Griffith Observatory and park a 30-minute drive from South Pasadena (near the Hollywood sign).
  • Join BeSpoke bike tours for a guided bike and hike to the Hollywood Sign.
  • Cruise the infamous Rodeo Drive a 40-minute drive from South Pasadena. 
  • Visit Santa Monica - the Peir and beach, the shops of Third St Promenade, or bag your berries alongside A-list celebs and lauded chefs at the Santa Monica Farmer's Market on Wed, Sat, Sun.
  • Ride the Griffith Park - La Tuna Canyon loop, 33.12 miles in Los Angeles near Pasadena. Map My Ride route map. 
  • Ride your bike: cycle Mulholland Drive in Los Angeles. 
  • Or Climb Mt Baldy less than an hour's drive from Pasadena, starting point for the climb in Claremont or Glendora.
  • You can join a Trek Travel Tour that will guide your through Stage 2 and 3, take you on some of the best bike rides in the Los Angles area and set up great hotel and meals for you with experienced guides. TrekTravel Tour of California.
  • About the stage: Stage 2 starts in South Pasadena at 12:05pm; Stage 2 start line VIP Hours in Pasadena: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM.
  • City websites: South Pasadena
Fans wait at the VIP tent. ©Photo by Karen Rakestraw of Pedal Dancer®

SANTA CLARITA   Stage 2 - South Pasadena to Santa Clarita, Monday, May 16, 2016 - Stage 2 Map Link

Little Tujunga Canyon
What to do near Santa Clarita:

Santa Clarita is a good location to find a hotel for the night (plentiful and lower cost than in Thousand Oaks). You can drive to Thousand Oaks or Santa Barbara the next morning for the start or finish of Stage 3.
  • Visit Santa Clarita list of Things to Do: visitsantaclarita.com
  • Enjoy the festival in Santa Clarita (and the beer tent) before the finish.
  • About the stage: Stage 2 finishes in Santa Clarita at approximately 3:46pm; Stage 2 festival hours in Santa Clarita at the Finish: 11:00 AM - 4:30 PM; Stage 2 finish line VIP Hours in Santa Clarita: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM.
  • City websites: Santa Clarita ATOC, Santa Clarita traffic and closures
Fans can openly walk around the team bikes and team buses.   ©Photo by Karen Rakestraw of Pedal Dancer®

THOUSAND OAKS   Stage 3 - Thousand Oaks to Santa Barbara County, Tuesday, May 17, 2016 - Stage 3 Map Link

Rock Store landmark
What to do near Thousand Oaks:
  • Thousand Oaks is home to title sponsor Amgen.
  • A good area for advanced cycling. Ride your bike over Old Tapanga, Mulholland, Dry Canyon and Cold Creek: many choices on Ride with GPS Malibu area.  Did you know local pro bike rider Phil Gaimon recently joined in the effort to clean up Mulholland Drive, and Dave Zabriskie (owner of DZNuts) lives in these hills.
  • Ride the paths on the Thousand Oaks bike route map to Stage 3.
  • Visit Reagan Library in Semi Valley, 20-minute drive from Thousand Oaks
  • Fifteen minutes north of Thousand Oaks (on your way to Santa Barbara) visit my families favorite airport restaurant where you can dine outside while watching small private planes take off and land. Located in the farm fields in Ventura County in Camarillo: The Waypoint Cafe and the nearby Commemorative Air Force Museum.
  • Definitely hang out by the sign-in stage to see all your favorite riders sign-in beginning at 10:00am.
  • Ride to one of the 4! King of the Mountain (KOM) points along the route of Stage 3: KOM locations: 1) Potroro Road, 2) Westlake Blvd, 3) Casitas Pass Road, 4) Gibraltar Road Finish!
  • About the stage: Stage 3 starts at 11:10am in Thousand Oaks; Stage 3 start line VIP Hours: 9:30 AM - 11:45 AM.
Cannondale Team bus, cars and bikes at the start in Santa Barbara in 2015. ©Photo by Karen Rakestraw of Pedal Dancer®

SANTA BARBARA   Stage 3 - Thousand Oaks to Santa Barbara County, Tuesday, May 17, 2016 - Stage 3 Map Link

Pier in Santa Barbara
An excellent city to visit for the day or three days, Santa Barbara has colorful culture, good food, local wineries and coastal scenery.

What to do near Santa Barbara:
  • Pedal Dancer's Santa Barbara guide from the 2013 Tour of California is still a valuable guide for local food, wine touring, surfing, trolleys and more.
  • Ride the route of the 2016 L'Etape California in Santa Barbara to the top of Gibralter Rd at La Cumbre Peak to see the stage finish (start very early because you will have a pro peloton on your tail). [Register for the real L'Etape California on April 24th].
  • Ride to one of the 4! King of the Mountain (KOM) points along the route of Stage 3: KOM locations: 1) Potroro Road, 2) Westlake Blvd, 3) Casitas Pass Road, 4) Gibraltar Road Finish! 
  • Enjoy Mixed terrain biking: follow the route on Ride with GPS in and around Santa Barbara.
  • Visit the Old Mission in Santa Barbara.
  • Have an early lunch at La Super Rica Taqueria (622 N Milpas St, open 11am, CLOSED WEDNESDAYS), good Mexican food, selecting any small dish specials from the chalk board (cash only). Some claim that Los Agaves Restaurant is even better (larger portions) with a nice atmosphere and food, one block down from La Super Rica (at 600 N Milpas St). I like both places a lot.
  • Visit the wineries in Santa Barbara.
  • On your way to Morro Bay, north of Santa Barbara, stop in Solvang to enjoy local wines and a great bike ride along Foxen Canyon (one of my favorite rides anywhere!). Follow this do-it-yourself *free Sideways Movie Bike Tour map, stopping at wineries along the way or grabbing a coffee in Los Olivos.
  • About the stage: Stage 3 finishes in Santa Barbara at approximately 3:48pm.; Stage 3 finish line VIP Hours: 12:00 PM - 4:30 PM; Stage 3 festival hours at the finish: 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM
BMC bikes. ©Photo by Karen Rakestraw of Pedal Dancer®

MORRO BAY   Stage 4 - Morro Bay to Monterey County, Wednesday, May 18, 2016 - Stage 4 Map Link

Seal
The drive from Morro Bay to Monterey along California Hwy 1 is one of the most scenic drives in the United States.

What to do near Morro Bay:
  • This would be a very good town to give your business to local stores and restaurants. Arrive early and enjoy a meal.
  • Hike Morro Bay State Park.
  • Visit the nearby college town of San Luis Obispo.
  • Ride your bike: I like to follow the guidance of the Ambassador's listed on Ride with GPS; There is a local Ambassador based out of nearby Paso Robles: see the routes by Jardine Ranch's Country Nut House
  • Road Trip: California's Pacific Coast Highway with National Geographic (reverse this trip).
  • Stop in for lunch in the quaint town of Cambria along the coast (2 hr drive north of Santa Barbara).
  • See the huge Elephant Seals at San Simeon (2'22" north of Santa Barbara)
  • Hearst Castle: one of the most popular tourist sights in California, Hearst Castle is a 55-minute drive north up Hwy 1 from Morro Bay. (2'23" north of Santa Barbara).
  • About the stage: Stage 4 starts in Morro Bay at 10:10am (it will be a long day in the saddle); Start line VIP Hours : 8:30 AM - 10:45AM
  • Find a spot near the start line sign-in stage to see all your favorite riders sign-in 1 hour before the start.
Rolling closures as the breakaway group rides down the road in California in 2015. ©Photo by Karen Rakestraw of Pedal Dancer®

MONTEREY    Stage 4 - Morro Bay to Monterey County, Wednesday, May 18, 2016 - Stage 4 Map Link

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
    PART II: To read tourist ideas for stages 4-8 in northern California, please transfer to: Tour of California Host City activities: Stages 4-8.

    More information about the race on the Pedal Dancer® Tour of California Spectator Guide Page.
    The peloton at call up waiting for the National Anthen at the start line. ©Photo by Karen Rakestraw of Pedal Dancer®
    See you at the race in 2016!

    More Pedal Dancer® race coverage 2016:
    Coming soon: Startlist and bib number Amgen Tour of California 2016;  National and World Championship jerseys at the Tour of California; and stories from the race.

    Trademark Pedal Dancer® ©Copyright photo content
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    Tour of California Host City activities: Stages 4 to 8

    Tourist ideas at the Amgen Tour of California in Northern California: Stage 4, Stage 5, Stage 6, Stage 7 and Stage 8. 

    WHAT TO DO IN CALIFORNIA - STAGE BY STAGE TOURIST IDEAS NEAR THE RACE

    Did you know Visit California is a major sponsor of the Amgen Tour of California? Intentionally playing tourist on the sidelines of the Tour of California is a great idea. As in life, balance in travel is a particularly good thing. The Amgen Tour of California covers some of the best tourists towns in California all within one-week. Enjoy the sea, mountains, beach towns, high mountain lakes, the beautiful wine country and the dramatic California coast. The stage race begins in San Diego and finishes in the state capital of Sacramento.

    Ride, hike, eat, stroll, relax, road trip and cheer on the best cyclists in the world including World Champion Peter Sagan, Mark Cavendish and Bradley Wiggins (read more about the riders attending).
    • Tips on how to watch the Tour of California
    • Start and finish times of the Tour of California
    • VIP tickets and hours and Festival information at the Tour of California
    • California tourist ideas near the Tour of California
    • Route maps for stages 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 of the Tour of California
    If you are planning to see the bike race, why not take time to see other sights before or after the stage, dine and stay locally. Think of it as the best way to say thanks to the businesses and host cities who support bike racing. Here I offer ideas for Stage 4-8 in northern California.

    PART I: Tourist ideas for stages 1 through 4 in southern California: Tour of California Host City activities: Stages1-4.

    Please read the details for each stage at the Pedal Dancer® TOUR OF CALIFORNIA GUIDE PAGE for spectators.

    See the best cyclists in the world compete! ©Photo by Karen Rakestraw of Pedal Dancer®
    2016 Tour of California Schedule:

    Stage 1 - San Diego, May 15, 201, Sunday
    Stage 2 - South Pasadena to Santa Clarita, May 16, 2016
    Stage 3 - Thousand Oaks to Santa Barbara County, May 17, 2016
    Stage 4 - Morro Bay to Monterey County, May 18, 2016
    Stage 5 - Lodi to South Lake Tahoe, May 19, 2016
    Stage 6 - Folsom Individual Time Trial & Women's Team Time Trial, May 20, 2016
    Stage 7 - Santa Rosa, May 21, 2016
    Stage 8 - Sacramento, May 22, 2016, Sunday

    MORRO BAY Stage 4 - Morro Bay to Monterey County, Wednesday, May 18, 2016 - Stage 4 Map Link
    Elephant Seal
    The drive from Morro Bay to Monterey along California Hwy 1 is one of the most scenic drives in the United States.

    What to do near Morro Bay:
    • This would be a very good town to give your business to local stores and restaurants. Arrive early and enjoy a meal.
    • Hike Morro Bay State Park.
    • Visit the nearby college town of San Luis Obispo.
    • Ride your bike: I like to follow the guidance of the Ambassador's listed on Ride with GPS; There is a local Ambassador based out of nearby Paso Robles: see the routes by Jardine Ranch's Country Nut House
    • Ride to either of the first two KOM points at KOM locations: 1) Pacific Highway 1 Summit #1, 2) Pacific Highway 1 Summit #2 (see the route map: Stage 4 Map Link). 
    • Road Trip: California's Pacific Coast Highway with National Geographic (reverse this trip).
    • Stop in for lunch in the quaint town of Cambria along the coast (2 hr drive north of Santa Barbara).
    • See the huge Elephant Seals at San Simeon (2'22" north of Santa Barbara)
    • Hearst Castle: one of the most popular tourist sights in California, Hearst Castle is a 55-minute drive north up Hwy 1 from Morrow Bay. (2'23" north of Santa Barbara).
    • About the stage: Stage 4 starts in Morro Bay at 10:10am (it will be a long day in the saddle); Start line VIP Hours : 8:30 AM - 10:45AM
    • Find a spot near the start line sign-in stage to see all your favorite riders sign-in 1 hour before the start.
    Julian Alaphilippe wore the best young rider jersey in 2015. ©Photo by Karen Rakestraw of Pedal Dancer®

    MONTEREY Stage 4 - Morro Bay to Monterey County, Wednesday, May 18, 2016 - Stage 4 Map Link

    Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
    Cue arguably the most spectacularly scenic area in California. This chunk of California coastline will have you peering at listings in the windows of local real estate offices yearning to move here.

    What to do near Monterey:
    SRAM neutral support car. ©Photo by Karen Rakestraw of Pedal Dancer®

    LODI Stage 5 - Lodi to South Lake Tahoe, Thursday, May 19, 2016 - Stage 5 Map Link

    There's gold in them hills! Map via sierranevadaphotos.com
    Into the land of The Mother Lode (dark orange area above), to take a term from the gold miners of the 1848 California gold rush. The flood of over 300,000 dreamers of gold was the largest migration in the United States. Northern California has a feel distinctly different from southern California with life influenced by nearby San Francisco, local parks, historic buildings, rapid transit and incredible natural beauty (with great road cycling and mountain biking).

    What to do near Lodi:
    • Visit California highlights the gold country in a planned 4-day, 10 stop Gold Country Road Trip: California Gold itinerary.
    • About the stage: Stage 5 starts in Lodi at 10:00am.
    Follow the peloton north! ©Photo by Karen Rakestraw of Pedal Dancer®

    SOUTH LAKE TAHOE Stage 5 - Lodi to South Lake Tahoe, Thursday, May 19, 2016 - Stage 5 Map Link

    Lake Tahoe
    Today's stage climbs into the Sierra Nevada Mountains, starting at 50 feet above sea level and finishing at 6,650ft, with a max elevation of 8,600 feet. The stage finishes up the short steep climb of Ski Run Boulevard at Heavenly Mountain Resort.

    What to do near Lake Tahoe:
    • Hike in Emerald Bay State Park: hike the D.L. Bliss Rubicon Trail.
    • Cruise the lake on a Paddle Wheeler boat.
    • Rent a jet ski, or rent a kayak for the day in South Lake Tahoe.
    • John Peltier recommends local hikes in the Lake Tahoe area: Five Lakes Trail hike Lake Tahoe.
    • A very good day to gather with the other enthusiastic fans near one of the sprint or KOM markers along the route: Sprint locations: 1) Sutter Hill, 2) Luther Pass. KOM locations: 1) Kirkwood, 2) Carson Pass, 3) last climb to Ski Run Boulevard to Heavenly Ski Area.
    • Watch the women's race! Women's Stage 1 start at 10:50am in Lake Tahoe; Women's finish in Lake Tahoe at 2:00pm.
    • About the men's stage: Men's Stage 5 finishes in South Lake Tahoe (Heavenly Mountain Resort) at 3:46pm. Enjoy the atmosphere near the finish line. Festival Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM.; Finish line VIP Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
    Peter Sagan in 2015. ©Photo by Karen Rakestraw of Pedal Dancer®

    FOLSOM Stage 6 - Folsom Individual Time Trial, Friday, May 20, 2016 - Stage 6 Map Link

    Kayaking the American River. Photo via adventuresports.rentals
    The time trial of the Amgen Tour of California returns to Folsom. Yes, the Folsom featured in Johnny Cash's Folsom Prison Blues. But don't expect the time to keep dragging on as Cash's lyric proclaim. This time trial will be fast with an elevation change of 800ft over 12.6 miles. Because a time trial is a constant flow of activity and speed, this is a day to stay near the action and immerse yourself in the event.

    What to do in Folsom:
    • Before or after the time trial rent a kayak or stand up paddleboard at Willow Creek on Lake Natoma part of Folsom Lake State Recreation Area: rentals California Canoe and Kayak (directions). Or paddle on the American River in single or double kayak rentals from Adventure Sports Rentals in Folsom.
    • There will be plenty to see surrounding both the men's and women's race today. Walk around the expo. Collect free swag, buy merchandise, eat, and drink beer.
    • The Women's race (Stage 2 TTT), starting in Folsom at 10:45am and finishing at 12:46pm will feature an exciting TEAM time trial. The Men's race, starting in Folsom at 1:04pm and finishing at 3:45pm will be an INDIVIDUAL time trial.
    • Walk slowly through the team buses (located near the start line) to watch the riders both warm up and cool down on their spinners. Gawk at the ultra expensive time trial bikes. It is also fun to watch the nervous riders wait in the staging area just before they climb onto the start ramp.
    • For more tips about watching a time trial read the tips on the Pedal Dancer guide page: Tour of California.
    • Watching at the start and finish line (near the time clock) is always exciting, but finding a quiet (the announcers can be quite loud) corner where you can set out a chair and cooler to watch the riders and team cars whiz by can be constant entertainment.
    • Most of the riders will begin in 1-minute intervals, with the final riders beginning three minutes apart.
    • The starting order of riders for the men's race will be the reverse of the overall GC standings from the day before. Use the Tour Tracker app to know which rider is next (sometimes they pass each other on route, so look for the team jersey as the best clue of who is coming).
    • Remember to stay after the time trial stage for the podium presentations (15 minutes after the men's race finishes, ~ 4:00pm).
    • About the stage: VIP Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM; Festival Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM; Stage presented by SRAM.
    Peter Sagan in the time trial.  ©Photo by Karen Rakestraw of Pedal Dancer®

    SANTA ROSA Stage 7 - Santa Rosa, May 21, 2016, Saturday, May 21, 2016 - Stage 7 Map Link

    Cycling the Alexander Valley and Russian River Valley. Photo via Santa Rosa Cycling Club.
    Sonoma County is the land of wine, beer and great bike riding. An exciting host city where the central downtown area opens up to scenic ocean vistas and challenging climbs along the stage route. You might want to bring your bike and ride out on course today.

    Both the men and the women will share this part of the route. Good viewing of Stage 7 in Santa Rosa ATOC 2016.
    What to do near Santa Rosa:
    • The Santa Rosa Cycling Club offers Ten great rides (local; between 23 and 53 miles). A fantastic collection of bike rides.
    • Bike the challenging route of Levi's Gran Fondo.
    • Take a multi-day bike tour with Wine Country Bikes. They also offer one-day bike tours in the wine-country.
    • Wine tasting and tours. I especially like wines from the Russian River Valley. Join the highly rated Valley Wine Tours for a day tour with lunch.
    • Drink beer. I know you might think of Sonoma County as wine country, but they have some excellent breweries in the area. For many years a local beer by Russian River Brewing Co. called Pliny The Elder has taken the top spot on many lists of the best beer in the United States! Beer Advocate gives the beer a perfect score of 100.
    • This would be a great day to watch the stage on a part of the course along the coast. Drive or ride your bike, and bring a picnic along while you wait.
    • Both the women and men will have a KOM on Coleman Valley Road.
    • About the stage: VIP Hours at the start/finish area: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM; Festival Hours at the start/finish: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM; Stage 3 women's start time is 9:00 am; Stage 3 women's finish time is 12:00 pm; Stage 7 men's start time is 11:55 am; Stage 7 men's finish time is 3:45 pm.
    The legs of a sprinter (Mark Cavendish's) ©Photo by Karen Rakestraw of Pedal Dancer®

    SACRAMENTO Stage 8 - Sacramento, May 22, 2016, Sunday, May 22, 2016 - Stage 8 Map Link

    Just another state capital building
    What to do in the capital city of California, Sacramento:
    • Tour the California state capital building, museum, and park. Weekends 9 am - 5 pm.
    • Ride the American River bicycle trail
    • The men depart just 5 minutes after the women.
    • Stage 4 women's (final) start time is 11:45 am; Stage 4 women's finish time is 1:24 pm.
    • Stage 8 men's start time is 11:55 am; Stage 8 men's finish time is 3:45 pm.
    • Yes, VIP will be worth it in Sacramento. Cost of VIP tickets in Sacramento are $209.00 each: Buy VIP Pass.
    • About the stage: VIP Hours at the Finish: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM; Festival Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
    • Definitely stay after the stage for the final podium presentations immediately after the men's finish, approximately 4:00pm. They will typically open the barricades to let the crowd fill the street in front of the stage.
    The Broom Wagon. ©Photo by Karen Rakestraw of Pedal Dancer®


    Be a tourist in California. It is a 9-hour drive from San Diego to San Francisco. VisitCalifornia.com regional map
    See you at the race in 2016!

    More Pedal Dancer® race coverage 2016:
    Coming soon: Startlist and bib number Amgen Tour of California 2016;  National and World Championship jerseys at the Tour of California; and stories from the race.
    Trademark Pedal Dancer® ©Copyright photo content
    Labels: , , ,

    28 January 2016

    Stage Route and Maps Tour of California 2016

    Amgen Tour of Cali - creates a great route for 2016

    Yesterday over 400 cyclists joined professional cyclist Laurens ten Dam on a virtual ride on Zwift in Long Beach California area (virtually) to kick off the announcement of the ATOC. For a resident of Colorado - a snow-locked winter state - the technology of Zwift was fascinating to watch. Somehow Laurens ten Dam, the well-known charismatic Dutch rider, now on the Giant Alpecin team, made riding on an indoor trainer seem competitive and fun.

    Always one of my favorite riders in the peloton, ten Dam recently moved to Santa Cruz, California with his family. Years ago I remember hearing how much this experienced European pro rider enjoyed the United States and dreamed of one day living in this country. I was happy to hear he made the relocation a reality.

    It is exciting to hear a visitor to this country expound on great local rides, bike shops, coffee shops, food (Mexican, BBQ & food trucks!), atmosphere and events discovered throughout California (Laurens ten Dam also plans to race the Leadville 100 mountain bike race in Colorado this year after his road season). In a year when I am not always proud of the American face portrayed in the media - Laurens ten Dam reminded me to appreciate those little things of cycling.

    The 2016 individual stages of the Amgen Tour of California are a perfect representation of the best of California. Not only will the 11th annual stage race attract the top pro racers, the routes designed this year are very challenging. Each day will rewrite possibilities of who will be wearing yellow. I expect some surprises in this year's race.

    Remember:
    Read more from Pedal Dancer® on the TOUR OF CALIFORNIA GUIDE PAGE for spectators.

    Announcement: all of the Amgen Tour of California Pedal Dancer Guide Page information may now be viewed on a brand new website created for pro cycling fans at: Tour Chaser (TourChaser.com). 

    Mark Cavendish and Peter Sagan at the 2015 Tour of California. ©Photo by Karen Rakestraw of Pedal Dancer Photography®
    The stage date, stage start times, finish times, distances and elevation gained are listed for each stage.

    2016 Tour of California dates and host cities:

    Stage 1 - San Diego, May 15, 2016
    Stage 2 - South Pasadena to Santa Clarita, May 16, 2016
    Stage 3 - Thousand Oaks to Santa Barbara County, May 17, 2016
    Stage 4 - Morro Bay to Monterey County, May 18, 2016
    Stage 5 - Lodi to South Lake Tahoe, May 19, 2016
    Stage 6 - Folsom Individual Time Trial & Women's Team Time Trial, May 20, 2016
    Stage 7 - Santa Rosa, May 21, 2016
    Stage 8 - Sacramento, May 22, 2016

    See the best cyclists in the world compete! Photo by Karen Rakestraw of Pedal Dancer®
    Amgen Tour of California - maps, timetables, city information
    * stage start time changes for Stage 4 & 5


    MORE INFORMATION
    • NEW WEBSITE: All of this information may also be viewed on a brand new website created for pro cycling fans at: Tour Chaser (TourChaser.com).  
    • CALIFORNIA TOURISM: Visit California offers tips on where to see the race and local businesses of cycling significance, here: Visit California Tour of California page.
    • WOMENS RACE: You may see details for the women's race at Tour of California on the Tour Chaser page Women's Race TOC - with teams, list of riders, favorites, stages, route maps, printable startlist, and a startlist of the women's teams for the Team Time Trial in Folsom.  

    MEN'S ROUTE MAPS OF 2016 AMGEN TOUR OF CALIFORNIA

    The stage date, stage start times, finish times, distances and elevation gained are listed for each stage.
    Tour of California route map 2016
    www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/stages
    STAGE ROUTE MAPS - MENS Amgen Tour of California

    Stage 1 - San Diego, May 15, 2016 Stage 1's start and finish on the water near Mission Bay and downtown San Diego. The start and finish are not in the same exact location.
    • Day: Sunday, May 15, 2016
    • Stage Start time: Mission Bay San Diego is 11:30 AM (the San Diego Local Organizing Committee has wrongly printed the start time as 10:30am, this is incorrect). As at every other UCI race, riders must sign-in on the sign-in stage, at least one hour prior to the stage start. There is also a customary singing of the national anthem before the start; these proceedings are not considered the race start (affecting road closures).
    • Start location: Ski Beach (Vacation Rd, San Diego, CA 92109)
    • Neutral Start, until Km 0
    • Start and Finish line are not in the same location.
    • Finish location: Marina Village (1936 Quivira Way, San Diego, CA 92109)
    • Stage Finish time: Mission Bay San Diego at 3:40 PM*
    • Miles: 106 mi
    • Kilometers: 170.5 km
    • Elevation Gain: 6,700 ft
    • Stage 1 Map Link
    • Sprint locations: 1) Imperial Beach, 2) Navajo Road
    • KOM location: 1) Honey Springs Road
    • City websites: San Diego ATOC
    • Watch Parties on route: 9 different watch parties are planned along the route of Stage 1, find a party.
    • Start VIP Hours:  10:00AM - 12:00 PM (VIP locations are not the same)
    • Finish VIP Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
    • Festival Hours near start / finish: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM.
    • Festival location: on Quivira Way, Pacific Beach.
    • Visit California offers tips on where to see the race: Visit California
    • Breakaway Mile: Register for the San Diego Breakaway Mile (prior to the men's race finish).
    • Stage sponsors
    • Valet bike parking: Blind Stokers Club will be providing secure Bike Valet for cyclists riding bikes to Stage 1 start and finish venues on Mission Bay. 
    • Expected Outcome: Group sprint finish
    • Stage 1 start time is 11:30 AM
    San Diego start of Stage 1 Amgen Tour of California 2016
    San Diego start of Stage 1 ATOC 2016 - at Sea World Mission Bay
    Stage 2 map of Tour of California 2016
    Stage 1 map of Tour of California 2016. Map created by Amgen Tour of California


    Stage 2 - South Pasadena to Santa Clarita, May 16, 2016 Stage 2 will begin in first-time Host City South Pasadena, with much of the race contested in the Angeles National Forest. King of the Mountain (KOM) points in the Angeles National Forest including Highway 2, Big Tujunga and Little Tujunga Canyon. Stage 2 will be a sprinter's finish.
    • Day: Monday, May 16, 2016
    • Stage Start: South Pasadena at 12:05 PM
    • Start Location: Mission Street in South Pasadena
    • Neutral Start
    • Starting line: 1017 Mission St. South Pasadena, CA
    • Finish line festival: 24500 Main St. Santa Clarita, CA
    • Finish Location: near Lyons Ave and Railroad Ave/Pine St
    • Stage Finish: Santa Clarita at 3:46 PM*
    • Traffic updates in Santa Clarita: Stage 2 in Santa Clarita
    • Miles: 92 mi
    • Kilometers: 148 km
    • Elevation Gain: 11,300 ft
    • Stage 2 Map Link
    • Sprint locations: 1) Oro Vista Avenue, 2) Placentia Canyon Road
    • KOM locations: 1) Highway 2, 2) Big Tujunga, 3) Little Tujunga Canyon 
    • City websites: South Pasadena, Santa Clarita ATOC, Santa Clarita traffic and closures  
    • Start line VIP Hours : 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
    • Finish line VIP Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
    • Festival Hours at finish: 11:00 AM - 4:30 PM
    • Finish line festival: 24500 Main St. Santa Clarita, CA
    • Visit California offers tips on where to see the race: Visit California
    • Expected Outcome: Group sprint finish, wide, flat finish in downtown Newhall.
    Stage 2 start in Pasadena Amgen Tour of California 2016
    Stage 2 start in Pasadena ATOC 2016. Stage 2 starts on Mission Street in South Pasadena
    Stage 2 map of Tour of California 2016
    Stage 2 map of Tour of California 2016. Map created by Amgen Tour of California
    Finish Santa Clarita Tour of California
    Finish in Santa Clarita, Tour of California

    Stage 3 - Thousand Oaks to Santa Barbara County, May 17, 2016 Thousand Oaks is home to biotechnology company Amgen, the race's title sponsor since its inception. The day will conclude with a thrilling, first-time mountaintop finish at Gibraltar Road. Stage 3 will be a breakaway climber's finish. This stage is a new and exciting route in the history of the Tour of California.
    • Day: Tuesday, May 17, 2016
    • Mountain Top Finish
    • Stage Start: Thousand Oaks at 11:10 AM
    • Start line location: 1 Amgen Center Dr. Thousand Oaks, CA
    • Neutral start
    • 2 laps: two neutral laps near the start area before the race begins at Km 0
    • Stage Finish: Santa Barbara County (up Gibralter Rd to La Cumbre Peak) KOM at 3:48 PM*
    • Miles: 104.1 mi
    • Kilometers: 167.5 km
    • Elevation Gain: 8,700 ft
    • Stage 3 Map Link
    • Sprint locations: 1) Port Hueneme, 2) Carpinteria
    • KOM locations: 1) Potroro Road, 2) Westlake Blvd, 3) Casitas Pass Road, 4) Gibraltar Road Finish (8% average grade)! 
    • City websites: Santa Barbara ATOC,  
    • Start line VIP Hours : 9:30 AM - 11:45 AM
    • Finish line VIP Hours: 12:00 PM - 4:30 PM
    • Festival Hours at finish: 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM
    • Finish Festival Location: 236 E Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (not on the mountain)
    • Visit California offers tips on where to see the race: Visit California
    • Expected Outcome: Select group of 2-4 riders
    Start Thousand Oaks Amgen Tour of California
    Start Thousand Oaks Amgen Tour of California
    Stage 3 map of Tour of California 2016
    Stage 3 map of Tour of California 2016. Map created by Amgen Tour of California

    Stage 4 - Morro Bay to Monterey County, May 18, 2016 Racing on Highway 1 south to north, the riveting and technical race day conclusion will be at a venue known for speed - the Laguna Seca Recreation Area, host to auto and motorcycle racing. This will be the first time the peloton of the Tour of California will ride up Highway 1 in a south to north direction. Monterey is one of the most visited locations in California.
    • Day: Wednesday, May 18, 2016
    • Racetrack finish
    • Stage Start: Morro Bay at 9:55 AM (start time change)
    • Start location: 1300 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, CA, 93442 
    • Depart: riders will depart from the base of Morro Rock, precede along the Embarcadero, turn left on Pacific Street through downtown and make a left on Main Street, up to Yerba Buena to join Highway 1.
    • The peloton will race along the majestic Highway 1 along the California coast. From Morro Rock to San Simeon, past Hearst Castle, through Big Sur, over the famed Bixby Bridge, past Carmel-by-the Sea, and ending in Monterey County at Laguna Seca.
    • Stage Finish: Monterey County  at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca at 3:43 PM*
    • Miles: 133.6 mi
    • Kilometers: 215 km
    • Elevation Gain: 8,100 ft
    • Stage 4 Map Link
    • Sprint locations: 1) Hearst Castle, 2) Carmel Highlands
    • KOM locations: 1) Pacific Highway 1 Summit #1, 2) Pacific Highway 1 Summit #2, 3) Laurales Grade Summit, 4) Mazda Raceway Summit
    • City websites: visit morrobay.org, Morro Bay ATOC,
    • Start line VIP Hours : 8:30 AM - 10:45 AM
    • Finish line VIP Hours: 12:00 PM - 4:30 PM
    • Festival Hours near finish: 11:00 AM - 4:30 PM
    • Finish Festival address: 1021 Monterey-Salinas Hwy. Monterey, CA
    • Visit California offers tips on where to see the race: Visit California
    • Expected outcome: Select group finish
    Map of start in Morro Bay 2016 Amgen Tour of California
    Map of start in Morro Bay 2016 ATOC
    Stage 4 map of Tour of California 2016
    Stage 4 map of Tour of California 2016. Map created by Amgen Tour of California
    Finish at Laguna Seca Speedway, Stage 4 ATOC 0216 Amgen Tour of California
    Finish at Laguna Seca Speedway, Stage 4 ATOC 0216

    Stage 5 - Lodi to South Lake Tahoe, May 19, 2016 From here out, the four-day women's race will run in conjunction with the men's, including the same start and finish cities except for this day, when the women begin and end in South Lake Tahoe. Featuring a long day of climbing, the stage will reach the highest elevation ever mounted by the race: 8,600 feet. In 1960 this area hosted the winter Olympics at Squaw Valley.
    • Day: Thursday, May 19, 2016
    • Men's Stage Start: Lodi at 9:45 AM (start time change)
    • Start line location address Stage 5: 16 W. Pine St. Lodi, CA  
    • Microsoft Tour Tracker goes live at 2:00 p.m. for the men's race. Men's and women's recap show at 9:00 p.m. 
    • Men's Stage Finish: South Lake Tahoe at 3:46 PM*
    • Finish Festival address: 3860 Saddle Rd. South Lake Tahoe, CA
    • Women's Stage Finish: South Lake Tahoe at 2:00 PM
    • Miles: 132.4 mi
    • Kilometers: 213 km
    • Elevation Gain: 13,300 ft
    • Stage 5 Map Link
    • Sprint locations: 1) Sutter Hill, 2) Luther Pass
    • KOM locations: 1) Kirkwood, 2) Carson Pass, 3) last climb to Ski Run Boulevard to Heavenly Ski Area
    • City websites: Visit South Lake Tahoe, Visit Lodi, Lodi Amgen Tour of California Site
    • Start line VIP Hours : 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM
    • Finish line VIP Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
    • Festival Hours at finish: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
    • Visit California offers tips on where to see the race: Visit California
    • Strider will hold on-course races for kids in South Lake Tahoe – 1:00 p.m.
    • Expected Outcome: Select group finish 
    For WOMENS race details of the opening Stage 1, please transfer to TourChaser.com: www.tourchaser.com/womens-race-toc
    Start of Stage 5 in Lodi Tour of California
    Start of Stage 5 in Lodi Tour of California
    Stage 5 map of Tour of California 2016
    Stage 5 map of Tour of California 2016. Map created by Amgen Tour of California

    Stage 6 - Folsom Individual Time Trial & Women's Team Time Trial, May 20, 2016 The men's individual time trial returns to Folsom where Team Sky's Bradley Wiggins dominated en route to his 2014 overall Amgen Tour of California victory. The women will compete in a team time trial on the same course.
    • Day: Friday, May 20, 2016
    • Time Trial: Folsom 
    • The start and finish lines are NOT in the same locations
    • Men's Start Time: 1:04 PM
    • Starting Line: address: 608 Sutter St. Folsom, CA
    • Finish Line Festival: 800 Leidesdorff St. Folsom, CA 
    • Microsoft Tour Tracker goes live at 2:00 p.m. for the men's race. Men's and women's recap show at 9:00 p.m.
    • Men's Estimated Finish: 3:45 PM*
    • Start ramp and Finish line are not in the same exact location.
    • Start location of Sutter St., Finish line on Leidesdorff St. 
    • Miles: 12.6 mi
    • Kilometers: 20.3 km
    • Elevation: 800 ft
    • Stage 6 Map Link
    • Sprint & KOM: No KOM points awarded during an ITT, points awarded at the final sprint to the line. The polka-dot jersey after Stage 5 in Lake Tahoe will be worn at the start of Stage 7 in Santa Rosa.
    • City website: Folsom ATOC site, Visit Folsom
    • Folsom road closures and parking for Tour of California time trial 8:30 am - 4:30 pm.
    • VIP Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
    • Festival Hours near start / finish: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
    • Visit California offers tips on where to see the race: Visit California
    • Bike Valets close - 4:30 p.m.
    • The roads on the route will be fully closed with specific crossing points allowed and monitored by volunteer crossing guards.
    • No public parking will be permitted in the Historic District on May 20 between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Spectators are encouraged to park and walk or ride a bike to the Historic District.
    • For details about car parking, bike valet, hours, key viewing areas, road closures and traffic impact, please read more at: www.folsom.ca.us/visitors/things_to_do/amgen_tour_of_california
    • Expected Outcome: Wide roads and non-technical, rolling course favors pure time trial specialists.
    For WOMENS race details of Stage 2 and a startlist of the order of team in the women's team time trial, please transfer to TourChaser.com: www.tourchaser.com/womens-race-toc
    Folsom start ramp and finish line area Amgen Tour of California
    Folsom start ramp and finish line area
    Stage 6 map of Time Trial Tour of California 2016
    Stage 6 map of Time Trial Tour of California 2016. Map created by Amgen Tour of California

    Stage 7 - Santa Rosa, May 21, 2016 This year's stage will incorporate a portion of the uber popular Levi's GranFondo, with the men and women competing on different courses. The scenic penultimate stage rolls along country roads through vineyards, redwoods, coastline and forests.
    • Day: Saturday, May 21, 2016
    • "King stage" and "Penultimate Stage"
    • Stage Start: Santa Rosa at 11:10 AM
    • Start and Finish location address: 610 3RD St. Santa Rosa, CA 
    • Microsoft Tour Tracker goes live at 1:30 p.m. for the men's race. Men's and women's recap show at 9:00 p.m. 
    • Stage Finish: Santa Rosa at 3:45 PM*
    • 3 laps: the peloton will do 3 laps of the downtown circuit
    • Start and Finish is in the same location. 
    • Miles: 91.0 mi
    • Kilometers: 146.5 km
    • Elevation Gain: 8,600 ft
    • Stage 7 Map Link
    • Sprint locations: 1) Cazadero, 2) Carmet Beach
    • KOM 4 locations: 1) King Ridge Road, 2) and 3) Pacific Coast Highway, 4) Coleman Valley Road (only Coleman Valley is shown on the map below). Today the winner of the KOM jersey will hold it for the overall King of the Mountain.
    • City websites: Santa Rosa ATOC, Visit Santa Rosa, 
    • Road closures for Santa Rosa Tour of California 
    • VIP Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
    • Festival Hours near start / finish: 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM
    • Visit California offers tips on where to see the race: Visit California
    • Women's Race Start at 9:15 am
    • Women's Race Finish at 12:10 pm
    • Luther Burbank Rose Parade will take place while the peloton is out on course: 12:15-2:15 pm. Joan Lunden, breast cancer survivor, will be Grand Marshall of the parade in Santa Rosa, more information.
    • Breakaway Mile: Register for the Santa Rosa Breakaway Mile (prior to the men's race finish).
    • Expected Outcome: Select group finish
    A time log /itinerary of Stage 7 (helpful for those cyclists planning to rider out on course) may be found at TourChaser.com: www.tourchaser.com/routes--maps-atoc

    For WOMENS race details of Stage 3, please transfer to women's race page at TourChaser.com: www.tourchaser.com/womens-race-toc
    Santa Rosa downtown map Tour of California 2016
    Santa Rosa downtown map ATOC 2016
    Stage 7 map of Tour of California 2016
    Stage 7 map of Tour of California 2016. Map created by Amgen Tour of California
    Stage 7 profile map - Santa Rosa
    Stage 7 profile map - Santa Rosa


    Stage 8 - Sacramento, May 22, 2016
    As an 8-time host, Sacramento will host the grand finale of both the men's and women's races for the first time.
    • Day: Sunday, May 22, 2016
    • Final Stage
    • Stage Start: Sacramento at 11:55 AM
    • Start and Finish location address: 1131 11th St. Sacramento, CA 
    • Microsoft Tour Tracker goes live at 1:30 p.m. for the men's race. Men's and women's recap show at 9:00 p.m.  
    • Stage Finish: Sacramento at 3:45 PM*
    • Neutral Start
    • 3 laps: the peloton will do 3 ceremonial laps of the downtown circuit before departing for the KM 0 marker where the real racing begins.
    • Start and Finish is in the same location. 
    • Miles: 84.8 mi
    • Kilometers: 136.5 km
    • Elevation Gain: 600 ft
    • Stage 8 Map Link
    • Sprint locations: 1) Clarksburg, 2) finish line in downtown Sacramento
    • KOM locations:  No KOM points!
    • City websites: Visitors to Sacramento, Sacramento ATOC
    • VIP Hours: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Festival Hours near start / finish: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Visit California offers tips on where to see the race: Visit California
    • Breakaway Mile: Register for the Saramento Breakaway Mile (prior to the men's race finish). 
    • Strider will hold on-course races for kids in Sacramento – 9:45 a.m.
    • Expected Outcome: Group sprint finish
    For WOMENS race details of the final Stage 4, please transfer to TourChaser.com: www.tourchaser.com/womens-race-toc
    Map of Sacramento Tour of California 2016
    Map of Sacramento Tour of California 2016
    Sacramento ATOC 2016 route map near start and finish
    Sacramento start and finish area, final stage Tour of California
    Stage 8 map of Tour of California 2016
    Stage 8 map of Tour of California 2016. Map created by Amgen Tour of California

    WOMENS ROUTE MAPS

    For details on the WOMENS RACE route maps, teams, startlist and favorites and how to watch the race, please transfer to the Tour Chaser Womens Race TOC page.

    Meanwhile ....
    Laurens Ten Dam (at the 2015 Tour of Cali) now rides for Team Giant-Alpecin. ©Photo by Karen Rakestraw of Pedal Dancer Photography®
    Laurens Ten Dam is featured in one of my all time favorite video clips on Alpe'd'Huez.

    Read the official Giant-Alpecin team medical update on 01/27/16 on five of Lauren's teammates undergoing surgery or medical care after being involved in a head on collision with a car during a training ride in Spain.

    Be a tourist in California. It is a 9 hour drive from San Diego to San Francisco. VisitCalifornia.com regional map
    2016 posts by Pedal Dancer®:

    Pedal Dancer® race coverage 2016:
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