Winner of Amgen Breakaway from Cancer® Most Courageous Rider Jersey Design Contest Announced

Los Angeles, CA - AEG, presenter of the Amgen Tour of California professional road cycling race, has unveiled the official race jerseys for the 2012 race taking place May 13-20. The custom race jerseys, produced by Hincapie Sportswear, official jersey supplier for the Amgen Tour of California, are awarded to the race leaders in various categories throughout the eight-day competition.

Earlier this year, AEG sponsored a design contest for the 2012 Amgen Breakaway from Cancer® Most Courageous Rider Jersey. Mike Monroe from Brea, Calif. created the winning design, which prominently features the Breakaway from Cancer logo and blue and gold colors. Monroe’s design was chosen from a pool of submissions and determined by the following criteria: creativity (50 percent), use of colors and elements (25 percent), and choice of theme (25 percent). Moore’s prize package includes a trip to one Stage of the 2012 Amgen Tour of California, an Amgen Tour of California merchandise package, and the opportunity to present the official jersey to the Most Courageous Rider winner of this year’s Stage 7 which will finish in Mt. Baldy, California.

Race contenders who excel in the following classifications have the opportunity to earn one of six custom-designed jerseys during each leg of the race:

The 2012 Amgen Race Leader Jersey – The Amgen Race Leader Jersey is awarded daily to the rider with the least amount of elapsed time over the entire race to that point. Depending on each day’s results, the rider wearing the Leader Jersey can change from stage to stage. Because the overall winner is based on lowest cumulative time, it is possible for a rider to win the Amgen Race Leader Jersey without winning a daily stage.

The 2012 Amgen Breakaway from Cancer® Most Courageous Rider Jersey – Each day, this jersey is awarded to the cyclist who best exemplifies the character of those engaged in the fight against cancer – courage, sacrifice, inspiration, determination, and perseverance. This year’s jersey was designed by a passionate Amgen Tour of California fan, Mike Monroe who won a contest for his design efforts.

“As an avid cyclist, I’m well aware of how great an event the Amgen Tour of California is, and I’m blown away by being selected as the winner of the jersey design contest,” explained Monroe. “The biggest honor is to be part of such a great initiative like Breakaway from Cancer.

When I first heard of the contest, I was excited to combine my love of cycling and art in the same project. I really wanted to design a piece where the Breakaway from Cancer logo stands out, and I believe my design does that.”

2012 Nissan King of the Mountain Jersey – As a reflection of California’s majestic mountains, this jersey goes to the peloton’s strongest climber. A cyclist earns this jersey by collecting points at designated King of the Mountain (KOM) locations located at the tops of mountains and hills. Only the first three cyclists to reach the top on rated climbs receive points towards this award.

2012 Visit California Sprint Jersey – The Sprint Jersey is awarded to the rider that accumulates the most bonus points, which are given based on Sprint Line performances as well as finishing the stage in the top-15 places. Cyclists who specialize in bursts of power and speed, or consistently finish near the top of each stage, will have the best chance to wear this respected green jersey.

2012 Rabobank Best Young Rider Jersey – Each day, all riders who are under 23 years old compete for this special recognition. The jersey will be awarded to the young rider with the least amount of elapsed time over the entire race to that point. Be on the lookout for these rising cycling stars.

2012 Exergy Most Aggressive Rider Jersey - Following each stage, as determined by a selection panel, the daily prize for the Most Aggressive Rider will be awarded. This will be based on the participant who shows the most sporting aggression by being involved in attacks, chasing down escapes, length of time in a breakaway, etc.

"We're excited to be the official jersey partner of the Amgen Tour of California and to create custom jerseys for the rider classifications of the most important bike race in the US," said Rich Hincapie, President of Hincapie Sportswear. "It's an honor for Hincapie Sportswear to be part of such a prestigious event and provide the means to recognize the race's very best riders."

The 2012 Amgen Tour of California is set to cover more than 750 miles throughout California from May 13 – 20, and will feature United Cycling International (UCI) Pro, Pro Continental and Continental squads. The 16 world class teams chosen to participate in the 2012 race will include Olympic hopefuls and Tour de France contenders representing more than 20 countries around the world.

Fans can get their hands on the six custom-designed jerseys, sold exclusively at AMGENTourofCaliforniaStore.com. For more information about the Amgen Tour of California, and to enter to win a $500 Amgen Tour of California shopping spree, please visit www.AmgenTourofCalifornia.com. The contest goes live today, March 26, and runs through April 9. No purchase necessary.

World Class Field Assembled for America’s Premier Cycling Race Set for May

Los Angeles, CA – Race organizers have named the 16 teams, including some of the world’s best international and domestic squads, to compete in the 2012 Amgen Tour of California, which will take place May 13 to 20. Comprised of United Cycling International (UCI) Pro, Pro Continental and Continental squads, the 16 world class teams chosen to participate in the 2012 race will include Olympic hopefuls and Tour de France contenders representing more than 20 countries, giving fans around the world a preview of what is to come in July in both France and London.

Since the inaugural race in 2006, the Amgen Tour of California has consistently drawn the world’s best cycling talent while growing to become one of the most important races on the international calendar. In 2012, the race will play an even more significant role as it will be where top competitors test themselves in preparation for the Tour de France and the 2012 Summer Olympic Games taking place in London this summer.

As previously announced by race presenters AEG, the 2012 Amgen Tour of California will start in Santa Rosa on May 13 and travel more than 750 miles throughout some of California’s most majestic and iconic highways, roadways and coastlines before the final stage on May 20 when the race will start in Beverly Hills on Rodeo Drive and finish at L.A. LIVE in downtown Los Angeles.

The 16 elite teams include the newly restructured RadioShack-Nissan-Trek, whose roster includes Amgen Tour of California defending champion Chris Horner, Jens Voigt and current U.S. National Road Race Champion, Matthew Busche who will compete against a field that includes the No. 1-ranked team in the world, Omega Pharma – QuickStep, featuring three-time Amgen Tour of California winner Levi Leipheimer and Tom Boonen; Garmin-Barracuda, featuring Amgen Tour of California veterans Dave Zabriskie and Tom Danielson; and 2011 Tour de France champion BMC Racing including veteran cyclist and fan favorite George Hincapie and one of the fastest rising stars in cycling today, Tejay van Garderen. Also, competing in California for the seventh consecutive year will be the Rabobank Cycling Team, featuring Laurens Ten Dam and Luis Leon Sanchez. Liquigas-Cannondale is set to compete as well, featuring American cyclists, Ted King and Timothy Duggan, as well as Peter Sagan, who has taken multiple stages in previous editions of the Amgen Tour of California. Competing in California for the first time will be the Australian GreenEDGE Cycling Team, who plan to bring Luke Durbridge and Robbie McEwen. AG2R La Mondiale is also on the roster, featuring Nicolas Roche and Rinaldo Nocentini.

The 2012 Amgen Tour of California roster includes the following 16 teams:

UCI ProTeams
BMC Racing Team (USA)
Rabobank Cycling Team (NED)
Garmin- Barracuda (USA)
RadioShack-Nissan-Trek (LUX)
Liquigas-Cannondale (ITA)
Omega Pharma - QuickStep (BEL)
AG2R La Mondiale (FRA)
GreenEDGE Cycling Team (AUS)

UCI Professional Continental Teams
Team Spidertech Powered By C10 (CAN)
UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling Team (USA)
Project 1t4i (NED)
Colombia-Coldeportes (COL)

UCI Continental Teams
Team Optum Presented By Kelly Benefit Strategies (USA)
Bissell Pro Cycling (USA)
Team Exergy (USA)
Bontrager Livestrong Team (USA)

“These 16 teams represent the most prestigious field of talent ever to compete in our race and we are honored to have them join us for the seventh edition of the Amgen Tour of California,” said Kristin Bachochin, executive director of the race and senior vice president of AEG Sports. “Cycling fans will see some favorite and familiar faces back in California this May, as well as a few new teams who will be racing with us for the first time. We look forward to presenting another impressive race for fans around the world.”

There are a total of 11 teams returning to the Amgen Tour of California for 2012, including AG2R La Mondiale (FRA); BMC Racing Team (USA); Rabobank Cycling Team (NED); Garmin- Barracuda (USA); RadioShack-Nissan-Trek (LUX); Omega Pharma - QuickStep (BEL); Liquigas-Cannondale (ITA); Team Spidertech Powered By C10 (CAN); UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling Team (USA); Team Optum Presented By Kelly Benefit Strategies (USA) and Bissell Pro Cycling (USA).

“Amgen Tour of California has always been a first class event, with great courses, amazing organization, and incredible fans,” said Chris Horner, Amgen Tour of California’s defending champion.

“This year's event looks to be the best ever, with an even more challenging route and a roster of 16 of the best teams in the world. I'm looking forward to coming back to defend my title - it promises to be a fantastic eight days in California!"

“The Amgen Tour of California is always a big goal for our team," said Jonathan Vaughters, CEO, Slipstream Sports and Director Sportif, Team Garmin-Barracuda. “The Amgen Tour of California is one of the premier races in the U.S. and one we take a lot of pride in. Every year, the competition is intense, the crowds get even bigger, and this year will be no exception. We're very excited to get back to California and we hope to give fans plenty of reasons to cheer.”

Teams new to the Amgen Tour of California roster include the newly formed GreenEDGE Cycling Team (AUS); Project 1t4i (NED); Colombia-Coldeportes (COL) Team Exergy (USA); and Bontrager Livestrong Team (USA).

"We are thrilled to ride the Amgen Tour of California in our debut season,” said Shayne Bannan, General Manager, GreenEDGE. “It's a great race and a fantastic event. It's real priority for us to bring a strong team to California and the riders really want to go there and make their mark for GreenEDGE. There are a lot of races that stand out on the calendar and the Amgen Tour of California is one of those we don't want to miss. Having it as Robbie McEwen's last race, will make it extra special for us as an Australian team."

In addition to the pro cycling teams confirmed for the 2012 Amgen Tour of California, Amgen’s Breakaway from Cancer® team will also be returning, traveling with the race from start to finish to celebrate cancer survivors and raise awareness about the free support services available to people affected by cancer from the four non-profit Breakaway from Cancer partner organizations.

“At Amgen, we are excited for our seventh Amgen Tour and impressed by the caliber of the cycling teams joining the field this year,” said Stuart Arbuckle, vice president and general manager, Amgen Oncology. “We are even more excited about how Amgen’s Breakaway from Cancer initiative has taken off since we launched it in 2006, the inaugural year of the Tour. This year we will host Breakaway Mile events and recognize Breakaway from Cancer Champions in four host cities: Santa Rosa, Livermore, Clovis and Los Angeles, and our Breakaway from Cancer partner organizations will join Amgen to host our Breakaway from Cancer tent in the festival area in every finish city.”

For more information about the teams competing in the 2012 Amgen Tour of California, please visit the official race website, www.AmgenTourofCalifornia.com. For more information about Breakaway from Cancer, visit breakawayfromcancer.com.

Photo: Leonard Basobas/LB Photos

2012 Route to Feature New Mountain Climbs, a Challenging Time Trial Course and a Return to the Pacific Coastline; Beverly Hills Announced as Official Start City for Stage 8 of the Race

Los Angeles, CA – After intense planning and careful consideration, details for the 2012 Amgen Tour of California professional road cycling race have been announced. The 2012 edition of America’s premier cycling race will feature new cities, new challenges for the world-class group of teams and riders, and breathtaking California scenery while returning to some of the fans’ and riders’ favorite California landmarks, including Big Bear Lake and Mt. Baldy. The seventh-annual event will travel more than 750 miles over eight days from May 13 – 20, 2012.

Beginning in three-time race champion Levi Leipheimer’s hometown of Santa Rosa, the 2012 race will wind its way south through redwood-lined country roads and spectacular coastline drives before ending in the City of Angels, Los Angeles. Also, for the first time in race history, Stage 8, the final stage of the race, will begin on one of the most famous streets in one of the most recognized cities in the world, Rodeo Drive and Beverly Hills.

In celebration of the route announcement, each of the 14 Host Cities produced videos highlighting their respective stages which are now posted on the official race website at www.AmgenTourofCalifornia.com. Each video includes specific route details, as well as individual city highlights, all of which combine to create an exciting first-hand look at what is sure to be a thrilling race.

“We take great pride in developing the route for the Amgen Tour of California, not only because it attracts the world’s elite cyclists, but because it puts an international spotlight on California for eight days,” said Kristin Bachochin, executive director of the race and senior vice president of AEG Sports. “We spend countless hours poring over possible route scenarios and taking into account fan and rider suggestions before determining the final course; it is a true labor of love. We want to thank our Host Cities for creating the videos that highlight their stage route details and show what an amazing race this will be.”

Drawing the world’s top cyclists, including Tour de France competitors, Olympic medalists and world champions, the Amgen Tour of California is one of most anticipated professional cycling races on the international calendar. Highlights of the 2012 route include:

Stage 1, Presented by Rabobank - Santa Rosa to Santa Rosa (Sunday, May 13)
Start/Finish Location: 3rd St. and Santa Rosa Ave.

The first day of racing of the 2012 Amgen Tour of California will start and finish in Santa Rosa, California, the city that helped establish the race as the premier professional cycling event in the U.S. and home to three-time race champion Levi Leipheimer. Expect to see spectators perched in the trees, rooftops and in windows near the finish line as they vie for the very best view of the final sprint.

The stage will start with two neutral laps around the city before heading out to the open roads of beautiful Sonoma County. Within 30 minutes, the race will reach the Town of Windsor and the first of several of the stage’s featured Sprints. The peloton will then head south, passing by several of Sonoma County’s world-famous vineyards. In Graton, the racers will turn east and head back into Santa Rosa for another Sprint, followed by a straight shot towards the coast and into the quaint town of Occidental. From here, the stage heads north on Bohemian Highway and follow a portion of Levi Leipheimer’s “King Ridge GranFondo” route.

In Cazadero, the racers will start to feel the cool Pacific Ocean breezes as they begin a climb up to the top of Fort Ross Road. They say “what goes up must come down” – and in this case, Meyers Grade Road presents amazing views of a spectacular coast line, but it’s the white-knuckle descent down to Highway 1 that will quickly grab the rider’s attention. A left onto Highway 1 will take the racers south 12 miles to the quintessential northern California climb of Coleman Valley Road, which is long, twisty and steep. The technical descent back into Occidental will test the skills of every member of the peloton as they compete over the last 16 miles on redwood lined country roads to the finish in Santa Rosa. For the first time, the riders will race right to the finish line in Santa Rosa without any finishing circuits, ensuring a climactic, crowd-pleasing end to Stage 1 of the 2012 race.

Stage 2, Presented by Visit California - San Francisco to Aptos in Santa Cruz County (Monday, May 14)
Start Location: Marina Green at Marina Boulevard in San Francisco
Finish Location: Cabrillo College on Cabrillo College Drive in Aptos

Cycling fans who love the electric feel of race starts will be hard-pressed to find anything better than the Stage 2 start of the 2012 Amgen Tour of California in San Francisco. Beginning at Marina Green in San Francisco’s Marina District, the start line will run right to the break wall of San Francisco Bay. The backdrop? Breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Angel Island and the Marin Headlands. However, the riders’ stay in the great city of San Francisco will be short-lived because within a few minutes, the race will have passed through the Presidio with the Golden Gate Bridge in the background. From here, Stage 2 will continue south on Highway 1 through the San Francisco suburbs of Pacifica and Daly City. Making its way down the Devil’s Slide, north of Half Moon Bay, the peloton will enjoy the most spectacular coastline in the world. The stage will then turn inward and start the assault up Bonny Doon, which, in previous editions of the race, has determined the winner of the stage.

With the stage finish moving to Aptos this year, the riders will face another 42 miles of racing and another KOM. The last several miles of the stage are downhill, followed by a short run down Soquel Avenue to the finish. Stage 2 of the Amgen Tour of California will certainly be a long and difficult stage, but it won’t be a surprise to see a large pack of riders contest the finish in an exciting Sprint.

Stage 3 - San Jose to Livermore (Tuesday, May 15)
Start Location: Berryessa Community Center on Berryessa Road in San Jose
Finish Location: Livermore (M Street and 1st Street)

Stage 3 will begin in San Jose, the only city to have played host to the Amgen Tour of California all seven years of the race. This year, the typical downtown start has been moved to north San Jose, just a few miles from the infamous Sierra Road climb. While the riders won’t be expected to tackle a Category 1 climb just two miles from the start as they have been in the past, the route into Livermore is one that the race has taken before: Calaveras Road and Highway 84.

While Livermore will be hosting their first stage finish in 2012, riders have raced through the town during previous editions including the Stage 4 start in 2011. Home of the renowned Lawrence Livermore Labs, the City of Livermore (established in 1869) played a prominent role in California’s Gold Rush history and is home today to a thriving wine industry.

Just 28 miles into the race, the riders will contest a challenging Sprint to the finish but the race will just be getting started. Heading out north on Livermore Avenue, the riders will likely face a stiff headwind coming down the valley. After passing through the town of Danville, the Amgen Tour of California will grant a wish that has been made for the past six years by riders and fans, “Please climb Mt. Diablo.” For the first time in the history of the race, the riders will climb Mt. Diablo. One of the most revered climbs in California, race organizers, cyclists and fans alike are excited to have this climb as part of Stage 3 of the 2012 race.

After a fast and technical descent into Walnut Creek, the race will then head east into the Town of Clayton where the second Sprint of the stage will take place. From Clayton, the race will connect back to a familiar route into Livermore. Just nine miles from the finish, the riders will likely tackle blustery winds as they battle the final KOM of the stage up Patterson Pass Road followed by a quick descent that will take the race onto Cross and Tesla roads. On Livermore Avenue once again, it will be just a few miles to what is sure to be a sprint finish in historic downtown Livermore.

Stage 4 - Sonora to Clovis (Wednesday, May 16)
Start Location: Sonora (Yaney and Washington)
Finish Location: Clovis (Bullard and Pollasky Aves.)

At 130 miles, Stage 4 is the longest stage of the 2012 Amgen Tour of California, and possibly the most difficult. This will be the race’s first visit to Sonora, a town that many consider to be the most preserved Gold Rush town in California. There is no question about the important role that Sonora played in the Gold Rush, and today it serves as both the gateway to Yosemite National Park (just 30 miles away) and the seat of Tuolumne County. Sonora has California history written all over it, and you need to look no further than the location of the Stage 4 race start. As the riders roll south from the start, it will be easy to imagine what it was like more than 250 years ago as wagons rolled down the same roads.

As the riders head south towards Mariposa and Oakhurst (both Sprint cities), they will enjoy the incredible beauty and challenge of historic Highway 49. As they skirt Yosemite, they will encounter everything from numerous KOMs, twisty and technical descents, and raging rivers, but very few sections of flat roadway. Once through Mariposa, Highway 49 widens a bit, but two more KOMs will await the cyclists as they head to the final Sprint in Oakhurst. The riders will no doubt be fearless as they attack the final 40 miles into the return to Clovis, perhaps recalling the snow and ice along this same route in 2009.

What better way to help celebrate Clovis’ 100th anniversary than to watch a thundering peloton sprint to the same finish won by Mark Cavendish in 2009. Clovis is another city belonging to California’s Gateway to Yosemite and is home to the world-famous Clovis Rodeo.

Stage 5, Presented by Rabobank - Individual Time Trial (Thursday, May 17)
Start/Finish Location: Bakersfield (Bakersfield College – Panorama Drive)

The finishing circuit at the end of the 2010 Amgen Tour of California’s Stage 5 in Bakersfield was a gut-wrenching fan favorite, so it was only natural to return to the scene and turn that circuit into an 18.4 mile Individual Time Trial course.

Right from the start, the riders will go from zero to nearly 60 mph in a matter of seconds. The start ramp will launch them onto an immediate descent to Alfred Harrel Highway. From there, it will be a straight – but not exactly flat – route to the turnaround point at Lake Ming.

In May, it’s likely going to be hot and windy, and there will not be much in the way of flat roadway to catch your breath. The route is full of 100-foot rollers, and as the riders approach the finish, they’ll be able to see it… up on a 300-foot bluff.

The prepared rider will have saved a little for the China Grade, which presents an eight percent climb to the top and then a hard left, and it won’t be over there. The riders will still face a slightly uphill, .44-mile run to the finish.

For those who think Stage 5 of the Amgen Tour of California sounds like a fun 40 minutes on the bike, come out and be part of a select group of amateurs that will get to race the course just before the pros start.

Stage 6, Presented by Visit California - Palmdale to Big Bear Lake (Friday, May 18)
Start Location: Marie Kerr Park, 2723 Rancho Vista Boulevard, Palmdale.
Finish Location: Snow Summit Ski Area on Summit Boulevard in Big Bear Lake

After a hiatus during the 2011 Amgen Tour of California, Big Bear Lake is back on the race map, challenging riders to face a daunting Stage 6, which will feature the first of the race’s “Daily Double”: Big Bear Climb and Mt. Baldy. If the 2010 route was a killer, this slightly toned down route will be a crusher. Stage 6 will be all about strategy as the riders will still be feeling the sting of the Bakersfield Time Trial from the day before. Will riders leave it all on the mountain climbs on Friday in hopes they can survive the brutal ascent to Mt. Baldy on Saturday? Or will they match the move of their nearest rivals and let Mt. Baldy decide the ultimate winner of the Amgen Leader Jersey? Or will there be a standout star that is capable of attacking both the Big Bear Climb and Mt. Baldy?

After a cruise down historic Sierra Highway, the racers will head into the Angeles National Forest. After a short stretch on Angeles Forest Highway, the route will turn onto Mt. Emma Road. Following the first climb of the day and then a descent to Fort Tejon Road, the first KOM at Mountain High ski area will be reached via a 12-mile climb to a 7,000-foot summit at Angeles Crest Highway. There will be a brief respite as the riders descend into Wrightwood and then over to Highway 138. The route will once again go vertical as it passes through Crestline and Lake Arrowhead, and then onto the Rim of the World Highway. Entering the Big Bear area, the riders will take the northern route around Big Bear Lake and then tackle the last ascent to the finish at a more than 7,000-foot elevation at the Snow Summit ski area.

Stage 7 - Ontario to Mt. Baldy (Saturday, May 19)
Start Location: Ontario Convention Center
Finish Location: Mt. Baldy Ski Resort

If the Stage 6 climb to Big Bear Lake created some separation between the contenders and the chasers, Stage 7 of the Amgen Tour of California will be the ultimate test of the rider’s resolve to capture the Amgen Leader Jersey. Did they leave it all on the roads to the Big Bear Climb, or did they hold back enough to survive one of the most difficult stages in the history of bicycle racing in the United States?

It’s been called the “Queen’s Stage” and compared to the epic stages of the European Grand Tours – a return to the mountain top finish that thrilled so many during Stage 7 of the 2011 race. This is the training ground for many of the local racers in southern California, but only a handful have done the entire route, and none have done it after six days of racing more than 750 miles. It is very possible that the winner of the 2012 Amgen Tour of California will be decided on the final 15 switchbacks to the finish on Mt. Baldy.

The race will begin in the thriving city of Ontario. Situated just 35 miles east of Los Angeles, Ontario is the center of commerce in southern California. Just a few miles from the start, the riders will start a 13-mile climb to the Village of Baldy. After an acute left, the racers will face another mile of climbing up Glendora Ridge Road to their first of three monster KOMs. From there, they will have 12 miles of narrow and twisting roads that gradually descend to a fast and technical descent down the backside of Glendora Mountain Road. Riders and fans alike can expect spectacular vistas throughout the Angeles National Forest.

Another descent down East Fork will take the riders to Highway 39 and the town of Azusa. Heading east, they’ll race through the City of Glendora for the only Sprint of the day. At this point, the remaining number of flat miles for Stage 7 will have dwindled to less than two, and there are still nearly 30 miles to the finish.

A left turn onto Glendora Mountain Road and it will be game on. The next KOM will be a nine-mile climb, followed by 12 miles of a slight climb back to Baldy Village. A left turn back onto Baldy Road will see the race gain 1,000 feet in just three miles…and the real climbing has not even started! At Ice House Canyon, the route will make a hard left turn where the sign to the ski area points towards the sky. Over the next 2.5 miles, the riders will face 10 switchbacks on a road that is so steep that many of the race vehicles cannot make it to the top. With 1.2 miles to go, the road will straighten out and the finish will be seen ahead. At .25 miles to go, the route will make a hard left and the racers will face the final five switchbacks to the finish line. This will be the stage where legends are made and winners are decided.

Stage 8, Presented by Amgen - Beverly Hills to L.A. LIVE - Los Angeles (Sunday, May 20)
Start Location: Beverly Hills – (Rodeo Drive and Brighton Way)
Finish Location: Los Angeles – L.A. LIVE (Figueroa Street and Chick Hearn Court)

Stage 8 of the 2012 Amgen Tour of California will start in what is quite possibly the most quintessential L.A. city – Beverly Hills. A first in the history of the race, the start line will be just across Rodeo Drive, where the Ferraris, Lamborghinis and the occasional Bugatti Veyron will be replaced with Giants, Treks, BMCs, and Specialized bikes. Designer dresses will give way to high-tech lycra. What better way to start the final day of America’s premier cycling race!

A quick turn after the start will take the riders onto Santa Monica Boulevard and then north on Doheny Drive into the city of West Hollywood. Following the route of the famous LA Marathon, the race will reach Sunset Boulevard and then make a right turn, heading towards

Hollywood. Heads in the peloton are sure to turn as the riders pass the likes of Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, Kodak Theater, Mann’s Chinese Theater, the intersection of Hollywood and Vine, and the Pantages Theater. The route will then turn southeast and travel past Dodger Stadium.

At Grand and Caesar Chavez avenues, the riders will enter the five-mile long circuit that will take riders through Chinatown, past Los Angeles City Hall, the historic Biltmore Hotel, Disney Hall and the LA Music Center as they race past STAPLES Center and L.A. LIVE to the finish line.

The winner of the 2012 Amgen Tour of California will be crowned on a special awards stage in Los Angeles at L.A. LIVE, a suiting location given the countless number of winners who have also tasted victory here, including GRAMMY, American Music Award, Emmy, ESPY, MTV and American Idol winners. At the end of the race, the winner, along with the team who supported him, will take top honors for having survived the longest and most difficult stage race ever contested in the America. This May 13 - 20, a whole new season of racing in America will begin with the prestigious and world-renowned Amgen Tour of California.

“It is a pleasure to continue to work with Amgen as the title sponsor of this race since its inception in 2006,” Bachochin said. “AEG is appreciative of our ongoing partnership with Amgen and we are proud to join them in bringing the company’s Breakaway from Cancer® initiative to life throughout the state of California during the race and to help educate people about the resources available to those impacted by cancer.”

Breakaway from Cancer 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. During the 2012 Amgen Tour of California, Amgen will honor and celebrate cancer survivors through a variety of events including Breakaway Miles, a special one-mile walk that crosses the finish line to honor cancer survivors. The Breakaway Mile will take place on race day in Santa Rosa, Livermore, Clovis, and Los Angeles. A special call for nominees in the search for a local Breakaway from Cancer Champion in each of these four communities will be issued in early March.

Additionally, volunteer registration for the race is now available online. Race organizers are looking to fill nearly 5,000 volunteer positions for the seventh-annual race, a majority of which are for the Course Marshal position, one of the more critical responsibilities during the race. Course Marshals provide support for the 75 professional Course Marshals that travel with the tour and support the local law enforcement authorities in each city. Course Marshals will be assigned a designated area along the race course to assist with the coordination and safety of the field of play for all race venues. They have an opportunity to be on the race route and close to the cyclists, with responsibilities for monitoring pedestrian traffic, barricades and road closures, as well as keeping spectators informed as the race is in progress. Course Marshal positions are for local stages only, not the entirety of the race.

Additional volunteer opportunities, such as media, security and volunteer check-in, are being recruited by the 14 individual Host Cities on an as-needed basis.

People looking to volunteer for the race can apply on the official race website. Volunteers must be over the age of 18 or accompanied by an adult. Shortly after filling out the online form, volunteers will be contacted by the local organizing committee and receive further information.

For more information about the Amgen Tour of California and to view the stage videos, please visit the official race website.

Chris Carmichael and CTS Team “Going Pro” for 2012 Amgen Tour of California, Riding Entire Race Course

Colorado Springs, CO – For the second year, Carmichael Training Systems has partnered with AEG, presenter of the Amgen Tour of California, to deliver an exclusive experience for serious amateur cyclists. A select team of athletes and CTS Coaches, including CTS Founder and CEO, Chris Carmichael, are “going pro” for the 2012 Amgen Tour of California as part of “The Amgen Tour of California Race Experience.” The team will ride more than 750 miles in eight days to complete every stage of the 2012 Amgen Tour of California.

The CTS Amgen Tour of California Race Experience will put amateur cyclists, selected through an online application process, on the start line of every stage of the 2012 Amgen Tour of California a few hours before the professional peloton departs. This is not a wine-and-cheese cycling tour; the CTS team must work together as a cohesive unit and ride fast enough to stay ahead of the approaching professional peloton. If they do not, they will be forced off the race course by the pros.

Carmichael, who raced the 1986 Tour de France with the iconic 7-Eleven Team and directed US National Cycling Teams at some of the world’s biggest races, said, “I’ve been around professional cycling for a long time and I wanted to create an unforgettable opportunity for cycling fans to experience a professional stage race from the inside. Athletes on my team are going to feel the pressure of being chased by the peloton, understand the need to work together as a team, and share the camaraderie that only comes from experiencing extreme efforts together.”

Carrying the Amgen Tour of California Race Experience well beyond the bike, the race organization will provide the CTS Team with similar accommodations, meals, and amenities as the pro teams competing in the event. And just like the pros, riders will be required to live out of one team-supplied duffel bag, have professional mechanics on the route with them, and professional massage therapy after each stage.

“Last year’s Amgen Tour of California Race Experience was a tremendous success,” commented Carmichael. “We had 22 riders and coaches on the team, which ultimately managed to reach the finish line in time each day and complete the entire race. We want to thank AEG for their continued support of our event and for cycling in general. Their commitment to our event has helped us to create an unparalleled experience for devoted amateur cyclists.”

The cost of this exclusive race experience is $11,500 and CTS is accepting applications from riders who believe they have the fitness to successfully complete this challenge. Interested athletes should apply online for the CTS Amgen Tour of California Race Experience Team. There is no cost to apply, must be at least 18 years old to participate, and applications must be completed by December 16, 2011.

"We're thrilled to be partnering with Carmichael Training Systems once again for the 'going pro’ racing experience," said Kristin Bachochin, executive director of the Amgen Tour of California. "We're proud that the Amgen Tour of California can be the platform for this once-in-a-lifetime experience for amateur cyclists. Given that last year, the team was able to ride the same course as the professionals and finish the race in time is a testament to their tremendous athleticism. We look forward to supporting the 2012 team next year."

The Amgen Tour of California Race Experience is one event in “Chris Carmichael’s Epic Endurance Bucket List.” Others events on the list include the Leadville 100, Trans Andes, and the La Ruta de los Conquistadores. These epic events target the adventurous endurance athlete and feature various packages of CTS coaching, camps and race support.

“There’s a hunger out there for big challenges,” commented Carmichael. “The demand is there as well. We filled the 2011 Amgen Tour of California Race Experience to capacity in two days, just by reaching out to individual athletes we already knew.”

For the Second Year, Amateur Cyclists Given the Opportunity to Tackle One of the Toughest Climbs in U.S. Cycling History

Los Angeles, CA – Fresh on the heels of announcing the 13 official Host Cities for the 2012 Amgen Tour of California, AEG, presenter of the race, has announced the return of the popular amateur ride L’Etape du California. Produced in partnership with Pacific Sports, a leading sports and event management company, the 2012 edition of L’Etape du California will take place on Saturday, April 28.

Held for the first time this past May in conjunction with America’s premier cycling race, L’Etape du California gives amateur cyclists an experience like none other, challenging participants to ride what is arguably the toughest stage ever seen in American cycling, Stage 7 of the Amgen Tour of California. Earlier this year, Stage 7 played host to the world’s best cyclists and produced an amazing race as riders Andy Schleck, Chris Horner and Levi Leipheimer battled it out to the top.

Featuring an unrelenting, intense climb to the top of Mt. Baldy, a route legendary in California cycling lore, Stage 7 of the 2012 Amgen Tour of California will start in Ontario, a new city to the race, on Saturday, May 19. Specific details of Stage 7 will be announced early next year, along with details of the entire race route. The 2012 Amgen Tour of California will take place over eight days from May 13 – 20.

“Last year’s L’Etape du California was received with so much enthusiasm, we knew we had to do it again in 2012,” said Kristin Bachochin, executive director of the Amgen Tour of California. “We have such passionate cycling fans in America, and here in California in particular, so it only makes sense to host this event in conjunction with our race. We were thrilled to see so many people tackle the Mt. Baldy climb this past May, and we look forward to an even more spectacular event next year.”

Drawing riders from around the country, the 2011 L’Etape du California was won by Californian Jonathan Hornbeck. Hornbeck battled through close to 10,000 vertical feet of climbing and rode nearly 100 miles to take first place honors. He was followed by Nate Whitman and Sean Donovan, who finished second and third, respectively.

Like last year, the field for the 2012 L’Etape du California will be limited to 2,500 riders.

“We are excited to be bringing this once-in-a-lifetime experience to amateur cyclists and applaud AEG for continuing this cycling tradition,” said Jack Caress, President and CEO of Pacific Sports, producer of L'Etape du California. “Stage 7 of the 2011 Amgen Tour of California was one of the most talked about stages, and it was watched by people from around the world, so we know interest for this year’s L’Etape du California will be even greater. We’re looking forward to a fantastic race.”

For more information, please visit L'Etape du California website. For further information on the 2012 Amgen Tour of California, and to view the 2012 Amgen Tour of California Host Cities video, visit the Amgen Tour of California website.

American cyclist Chris Horner wins 2011 Amgen Tour of California, Matthew Goss Races to the Finish to Capture Stage 8 Win and Team Garmin-Cervelo Takes Overall Team Competition for Second Consecutive Year

Thousand Oaks, CA – Chris Horner (USA) of Team RadioShack crossed the finish line of the last stage of the 2011 Amgen Tour of California in Westlake Village with an overall time of 23 hours, 46 minutes and 41 seconds, capturing the Amgen Race Leader Jersey and solidifying his place at the top of the podium, while Matthew Goss (AUS) of HTC-Highroad won the final stage. Horner’s teammate Levi Leipheimer (USA), a three-time winner of America’s biggest race, finished second overall only 38 seconds back, while Thomas Danielson (USA) of Team Garmin-Cervelo, finished two minutes and 12 seconds behind to claim third place.

“It feels fantastic to be the winner of the Amgen Tour of California,” said Horner, who at 39 marks the oldest winner in the six year history of the event. “I have competed in this race since its inception and I have helped Levi (Leipheimer) win it many times. As soon as they added the summit finishes, I made it one of my personal goals to finish high in the race. Team RadioShack came in with a great squad this year. We had some great help, and the crowds throughout the race have just been amazing.”

The 2011 Amgen Tour of California officially kicked off in Nevada City, California, on Monday, May 16, after less-than-favorable weather conditions in Lake Tahoe forced the cancellation of Stage 1 and necessitated a change in start location of Stage 2, with rider safety in mind.

Considered the most difficult route in the race’s six-year history, the 18 professional cycling teams competing rode through the state of California, experiencing everything from beautiful rolling hills to snaking winding roads to brutally steep climbs. In the end, four riders were awarded top honors in special categories, including Peter Sagan (SVK) of Liquigas-Cannondale who won the Herbalife Sprint Points Jersey; Jonathan Patrick McCarty (USA) of Team Spidertech Powered by C10 who captured the California Travel & Tourism King of the Mountains (KOM) Jersey every stage of the race; and Tejay Van Garderen (USA) of HTC-Highroad, who secured the Rabobank Best Young Rider Jersey, awarded to the top rider age 24 or under.

“The Amgen Tour of California is unprecedented in its growth and popularity,” said Leipheimer. “More people were at the start today than attended the entire Vuelta a Espana (Tour of Spain, one of racing’s three Grand Tours). The race keeps getting bigger and better and I think yesterday’s stage proved that. It was as big and epic as the other Grand Tours, similar to what you would see at the Tour de France or Giros (d’Italia). Having stages like Sierra Road and Mt. Baldy will continue to improve the race, and I am proud to be able to say that I am the first winner of the Mt. Baldy climb.”

Added Bob Stapleton, general manager and owner of the American-based HTC-Highroad, “American cycling is on the rise. Look at both the young and old cyclists who have done well in this race. This is America’s biggest race, and Americans are doing well in races all over the world.” The top five finishers of the 2011 race were Americans, a first for the event.

Starting in the city of Santa Clarita, the neutral start quickly gave way to multiple attacks, none of which stuck. Riding along at a brisk pace of 32 mph, four riders went out on the attack, including Jan Barta (CZE) of Team NetApp, Bradley White (USA) of UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling, Jose Fernando Antogna (ARG) of Jamis-Sutter Home and Michael Friedman (USA) of Kelly Benefit Strategies-OptumHealth. With 1 kilometer away from the first KOM of the day, and the last of the race, the breakaway had a three minute and 40 second lead over the group. Barta took the final KOM points, and Antogna took the first intermediate sprint points.

Along with Team RadioShack, who continued to set tempo for the peloton, HTC-Highroad, Liquigas-Cannondale and Saxo Bank Sungard all contributed riders to the front as the group rolled towards the suburban streets of Thousand Oaks. With five laps to go, the break crossed the finish line for the first time with a lead of two minutes and 35 seconds in front of the peloton. Leopard Trek and Rabobank Cycling Team sent riders on the attack, trailing the break by 39 seconds.

With Liquigas-Cannondale pacing the peloton, Martin Mortensen (DEN) of Leopard Trek and Maarten Tjallingii (NED) of Rabobank Cycling Team joined Barta in the breakaway, as White, Fernando and Friedman dropped. With 13.5 kilometers to go, the group held on to a 25-second lead, but was eventually caught with five kilometers to go. HTC-Highroad, Sky Procycling and Saxo Bank Sungard raced to the front and were soon joined by Liquigas-Cannondale and Rabobank. With the sprinters strung out across the front, it was Matthew Goss (AUS) of HTC-Highroad who accelerated to cross the finish line first. Barta earned the Amgen’s Breakaway from Cancer® Most Courageous Rider Jersey for his passionate riding throughout the stage.

“We took another step forward this year,” said Andrew Messick, president of AEG Sports, presenter of the race. “We have been working hard to create what we think is a great race; we have aspirations to make the Amgen Tour of California one of the greatest cycling races in the world. American cycling fans deserve it, riders deserve it and America deserves it. We want it to be known that not every great cycling race exists in Western Europe.”

And while everyone celebrated the race finale today, organizers announced they had already been looking ahead.

“The future starts 51 weeks from now in Santa Rosa,” continued Messick, “where we will start the 2012 race. Santa Rosa has been an exceptional home to the race and we look forward to bringing it back there next year.”

Additionally, today, Thousand Oaks cancer survivor Reine Wiley was honored and celebrated today at the final Breakaway Mile, a special one-mile walk that crosses the finish line to honor the millions of cancer survivors worldwide. Wiley’s diagnosis was revealed shortly before the 2010 Amgen Tour of California. She has demonstrated a strong will to fight and commitment to continue to cycle, even while she’s undergoing treatment.

During the Breakaway Mile, Wiley was joined by approximately 150 community members – cancer survivors, patients, caregivers, and advocates – and Joe Miletich, Amgen’s senior vice president of Research & Development, who plays a crucial role in developing innovative medicines to treat cancer and other serious illnesses.

“The 17,000 staff members at Amgen come to work every day motivated by the chance to make a dramatic difference in the lives of people suffering from cancer and other life threatening illnesses,” said Stuart Arbuckle, vice president and general manager, Amgen Oncology. “As a company dedicated to tapping the power of pioneering science to fight serious illness, Amgen is passionate about helping people who are battling cancer, and Breakaway from Cancer is one of the ways that Amgen is fighting cancer. Amgen is proud to sponsor the Amgen Tour of California and the opportunity to help increase awareness of the important resources available to people affected by cancer.”

Final Quotebook

Chris Horner (Team RadioShack), Amgen Race Leader Jersey Winner
On riding in Southern California
“It was very, very nostalgic riding through these roads. The whole So. Cal. area has been my stomping ground. I had a huge grin from ear to ear the whole time out there today.”

Levi Leipheimer (Team RadioShack), Second Place Overall
On taking the race to the next level
“It is pretty big right now. I put my full trust in Medalist and AEG. The race kicked off in its first year as one of the biggest races and it gets bigger and better every year.”

Tom Danielson (Team Garmin-Cervelo), Third Place Overall
On taking third place overall in the 2011 Amgen Tour of California
“It was an honor standing on the podium with Chris (Horner) and Levi (Leipheimer) today. I have learned a lot from both of these guys and I wouldn’t be the cyclist that I am today without these guys. It was great to be able to celebrate with them.”

On the weather
“I just want to clarify that the weather we had throughout the Amgen Tour of California is not bad weather. The weather that we race in in Europe on a good day is similar to the bad weather that we had here, so it’s all relative.”

Matthew Goss (HTC-Highroad), First Place, Stage 8
On Stage 8 of the 2011 Amgen Tour of California
“I didn’t look at the average speed. It was a fast and furious stage. The shorter stages tend to be faster and the guys I was riding with today were perfect. It was important to do well because this is a home race for the team and it caps of a highly successful week. We couldn’t ask for anything better than to finish with a stage win and the Rabobank Best Young Rider Jersey.”

Andrew Messick, President of AEG Sports
On the 2011 route
“We worked hard and took some chances this year. The finishes on Sierra Rd. and Mt. Baldy worked out well, and the International Women’s Time Trial worked out well; Tahoe, not so much. We are not playing it safe. We are trying to continue to provide to some of the best athletes in the world and we are getting better.”

On the weather
“We were unlucky with weather last Sunday (what was to be the official start of the race), but the rest of the week was fantastic. In reality, one day of bad weather in a stage race isn't that untypical. We like our position on the calendar. We all warmed up.”

Jim Birrell, Race Director, Amgen Tour of California
On the race overall
“It has been a great eight days. We saw things and did things that we have never done before. Our focus throughout the course of the race was always rider safety.”

On canceling Stage 1 of the race
“We were faced with a challenge and were forced to make a decision that none of us were happy to make.”

On the 2011 route
“Having the opportunity to take the race to two summit finishes was amazing. We created a little village and saw some unbelievable dynamics on the top of Sierra Rd. and Mt. Baldy. The fans up there were unbelievable. Yesterday was such an epic course. It resonated so deep and well with the type of athletes we have. It unveiled some unbelievable strength. It was incredible. Today’s finish is one of the biggest in our history.”

Results - Stage 8
1. Matthew Goss (AUS), HTC-Highroad (USA)
2. Peter Sagan (SVK), Liquigas-Cannondale (ITA)
3. Greg Henderson (NZL), Sky Procycling (GBR)

General Classification - Final
General Classification After Stage 7
1. Chris Horner (Team RadioShack)
2. Levi Leipheimer (Team RadioShack)
3. Tom Danielson (Garmin-Cervelo)
4. Christian Vande Velde (Garmin-Cervelo)
5. Tejay Van Garderen (HTC-Highroad)
6. Laurens Ten Dam (Rabobank)
7. Rory Sutherland (UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling)
8. Andy Schleck (Leopard Trek)
9. Steve Morabito (BMC Racing)
10. Ryder Hesjedal (Garmin-Cervelo)

Jersey Winners - Final
Amgen Race Leader Jersey – Chris Horner (USA), Team RadioShack
California Travel & Tourism King of the Mountains Jersey – Jonathan Patrick McCarty (USA), Team Spidertech Powered by C10
Herbalife Sprint Jersey – Peter Sagan (SVK), Liquigas-Cannondale
Rabobank Best Young Rider Jersey – Tejay Van Garderen (USA), HTC-Highroad
Amgen’s Breakaway from Cancer® Most Courageous Rider Jersey – Jan Barta (CZE), Team NetApp

Galleries: 2011 Amgen Tour of California | Bikes, Personalities, and Scenes

Photo: Leonard Basobas/LB Photos

Stage 8 - Santa Clarita to Thousand Oaks (129.1km)

The final day of a stage race is often anticlimactic, as many of the contests for the various classifications have already been determined well before the peloton crosses the final finish line. But with an American sweep of the podium and victories in the Team and Best Young Rider competitions, the celebration in Thousand Oaks should be boundless.

Stage 8 Route (from the Amgen Tour of California website):
The Amgen Tour of California returns to one of its favorite host cities for the start of the final stage of the 2011 race. Santa Clarita is one of the up and coming cities in all of California. They boast miles of bike paths and are the home to many large events throughout the year. Leaving Santa Clarita, the race will head out on a flat 13 mile stretch of Hwy 126. A left turn near Piru will work the riders towards the coast and to the base of the final KOM of the race: Balcolm Canyon. This is a wicked climb that is relatively short but painfully steep. Most of the locals find a different way to get their bikes and cars to Thousand Oaks. No one wants to climb Balcolm. The riders can expect a solid mass of fans that will part as the riders approach. Cresting the summit, the race will head through Moorpark and up the final climb on the Norwegian Grade. Now the route heads downhill and enters the four-mile circuit as passes the finish line in Thousand Oaks and begins the first of five flat and fast circuits.

Epic Stage Delivers Most Challenging Route in Race History

Mt. Baldy, CA – Amid breathtaking vistas and challenging roads with continuous switchbacks leading to the top of Mt. Baldy (elevation 7,930 ft.), RadioShack teammates Levi Leipheimer (USA), three-time Amgen Tour of California champion, and Chris Horner (USA) crossed the Stage 7 finish line in first and second place respectively, thrilling fans with a picture-perfect victory. The second-place finish today will keep Horner in the Amgen Race Leader Jersey heading into the final stage of the race tomorrow. Leipheimer remains in second place overall and Tom Danielson (USA) of Team Garmin-Cervelo moves up to third.

“Our team was perfect today,” said Leipheimer. “You don’t get to experience that much in professional cycling. To experience a day where everyone clicks was incredible. There wasn’t a lot of talking between us today because we knew exactly what each person on the team was doing; we didn’t need a lot of communication today. The team had a solid performance and everyone did their jobs; it was just a really special and amazing day. The work they did really allowed me to win. There was never a threat, so I was able to ride for a stage win with Chris on my wheel. I really have to thank the boys for that.”

Cheered on by the crowds of fans, many of whom braved the same route as the professional riders to get to the finish line, the cyclists dug deep and left it all out on the road for what is sure to be remembered as one of the most epic stages in the history of the race. An unforgiving route, after a neutral start in the town of Claremont, riders immediately began the ascent to Mt. Baldy, ultimately climbing more than 15,000 ft. over the 75.8-mile course.

“We hit the final part of Mt. Baldy with Dmitry (Muravyev) out in front, and he had done a lot the last seven to eight miles,” said Horner. “He got us all the way through at the bottom of the hill and then we started the climb. Then, the young Matt Busche took over and he was very, very impressive. I cannot stress how impressive he was today. He is a year and a half pro and while his experience is very limited, his riding ability is really high. When we were down to maybe five riders in the field, Levi (Leipheimer) went up there and told him to punch it and he punched it one last time. From there it was hopping on the Levi train and riding it all the way to the line.”

After an aggressive attack that was quickly reeled back, a 16-man group gained a small lead only 6.5 kilometers into the route. That group was quickly whittled down to only nine, comprised of Andrew Talansky (USA) of Team Garmin-Cervelo; Christopher Froome (GBR) of Sky Procycling; George Hincapie (USA) of BMC Racing Team; Francesco Bellotti (ITA) of Liquigas-Cannondale; Grischa Niermann (GER) of Rabobank Cycling Team; Alexander Efimkin (RUS) of Team Type 1-sanofi; Jonathan Patrick McCarty (USA) of Team Spidertech Powered By C10; Rob Britton (CAN) of Bissell Pro Cycling; and Ryder Hesjedal (CAN) of Team Garmin-Cervelo. With the first KOM of the day only five kilometers away, the group had a 30-second lead on the peloton.

With Team Garmin-Cervelo setting the pace in the break up the climb, the lead increased to two minutes after 22.5 kilometers of racing, and a gruppetto was formed approximately two minutes behind the field. Shortly after Froome dropped from the break, the race split into four groups on the road – an eight-man break, the first group of chasers led by Team RadioShack and then two more groups after that. The gruppetto was positioned approximately seven miles behind the break.

After the first Sprint competition, in which Bellotti took first, the break began climbing again with Hesjedal setting the tempo up front and Team RadioShack setting the pace in the main field. Leopard Trek soon joined the chase efforts and the peloton began to stretch, eventually leaving 50-60 riders in the field. As the field crossed the second KOM, McCarty once again took maximum points.

With the gruppetto 17 minutes and 30 seconds off the pace, and 40 riders left in the left in the main field, U.S. Champion Ben King (USA) continued to work hard for teammates Horner and Leipheimer. With the break’s lead down to 45 seconds, Talansky continued to set the pace of the seven-man group at the front as they approached the finish at the top of Mt. Baldy. In addition to Talansky, the break consisted of George Hincapie (USA) of BMC Racing Team, Hesjedal, Bellotti, Niermann, Efimkin and Britton. Nearing the start of the Mt. Baldy climb, Matt Busche (USA) began to set a hard tempo for teammates Horner and Leipheimer, who were second and third in line in the chase group.

Heading uphill, the break split completely apart, leaving only Efimkin in the lead with five kilometers of racing ahead. Soon a group of five, including Horner, Busche, Leipheimer, Laurens Ten Dam (NED) of Rabobank Cycling Team and Andy Schleck (LUX) of Leopard Trek, began closing in. Efimkin was caught with 2.9 kilometers to go.

With two kilometers to go, Horner and Leipheimer took the lead, both out of the saddle, using every ounce of energy to continue the uphill climb. Gaining speed as they neared the finish line, Leipheimer crossed first, reaching his hands in the air and high-fiving teammate Horner as they finished one of the most brutal stages in the history of the Amgen Tour of California.

After some courageous racing today, Horner remains in first place overall, followed by Leipheimer in second and Danielson in third.

“I really tried to ride my own tempo,” said Danielson. “When those guys went (Leipheimer and Horner), I knew other riders might blow up because of the altitude.”

Efimkin (RUS) of Team Type 1-sanofi was awarded the Amgen’s Breakaway from Cancer® Most Courageous Rider Jersey for his relentless riding in the breakaway throughout the day. All of the other race jerseys remained unchanged with Horner in the Amgen Race Leader Jersey; Peter Sagan (SVK) of Liquigas-Cannondale in the Herbalife Sprint Jersey; McCarty (USA) in the California Travel & Tourism King of the Mountains (KOM) Jersey; and Tejay Van Garderen (USA) of Rabobank Cycling Team in the Rabobank Best Young Rider Jersey.

“Amgen is proud to be part of this amazingly successful race, which is helping advance the popularity of cycling in America while also helping increase awareness of the resources that are available to those affected by cancer,” said Stuart Arbuckle, vice president and general manager, Amgen Oncology. “The Breakaway from Cancer nonprofit partners collectively offer people affected by cancer a broad range of support services complementing those provided by a patient’s team of healthcare professionals.”

Founded by Amgen in 2005 as a complementary component to its title sponsorship of the Amgen Tour of California, Breakaway from Cancer continues to raise awareness of the important resources available to people impacted by cancer – from prevention to survivorship.

As part of the today’s race activities, Claremont resident and cancer survivor Edgar Reece fired the official start gun.

Quotebook

Levi Leipheimer (Team RadioShack), First Place, Stage 7
On today’s win
“Our team was perfect today. You don’t get to experience that much in professional cycling. To experience a day where everyone clicks was incredible. There wasn’t a lot of talking between us today because we knew exactly what each person on the team was doing; we didn’t need a lot of communication.”

On his team
“Matthew Busche has a lot of talent and he doesn’t even know it yet. All of the guys really did amazing today. The team had a solid performance and everyone did their jobs. I can’t say enough about Team RadioShack today; it was just a really special and amazing day. The work they did really allowed me to win. I never had to really step in and defend Chris’ (Horner) jersey because there just wasn’t any challenge to it. There was never a threat, so I was able to ride for a stage win with Chris (Horner) on my wheel. I really have to thank the boys for that.”

On preparing for today’s climb
“I came here in the beginning of April last year to preview Big Bear for the 2010 race and to get in some good training and good weather at a higher altitude. I was speaking with Jim Birrell and Andrew Messick and they told me they were thinking about Mt. Baldy, which I wasn’t familiar with. They said it would be great if I could go down there one day and check it out, so I came here couldn’t believe I was still in Los Angeles! I had no idea a climb like this existed here. I told them they had to put Mt. Baldy in the race because it would be amazing. It would be like having a Tour de France stage right here in the Amgen Tour of California, right next to one of the largest cities in the U.S. Let me just say that today was perfect. The weather, the fans, the course. I think they should do this stage every year.”

On Horner’s performance
“Chris (Horner) has really come into his own the past couple of years. You are seeing the results of his changes and I am not surprised at all. I have had some health issues this year and the team wasn’t very confident in me coming into the race; they needed somebody and it turned out to be Chris. I am happy because I showed today that I could have won, but my teammate was better and there is no denying that.”

On today’s conditions
“It was a really fantastic day today. The weather, the scenery, the setting, the fans, everythign was incredible. The last six kilometers of the course were some of the toughest in the world with the altitude and rough roads. It was pretty difficult and required a lot of fitness.”

Chris Horner (Team RadioShack), Second Place, Stage 7 and Amgen Race Leader Jersey Winner
On the final climb to the finish
“We hit the final part of Mt. Baldy with Dmitry (Muravyev) out in front, and he had done a lot the last seven to eight miles. He got us all the way through at the bottom of the hill and then we started the climb. Then, the young Matt Busche took over and he was very, very impressive. I cannot stress how impressive he was today. He is a year and a half pro and while his experience is very limited, his riding ability is really high. When we were down to maybe five riders in the field, Levi (Leipheimer) went up there and told him to punch it and he punched it one last time. From there it was hopping on the Levi train and riding it all the way to the line.”

On leading in the 2011 Amgen Tour of California
“It has been a fantastic week for Team RadioShack, and it was a fantastic day today. Pending anything catastrophic happening tomorrow, I don’t see much chance of losing the leader jersey. We are going to have a very good time Sunday night here in Los Angeles.”

Results - Stage 7
1. Levi Leipheimer (USA), Team RadioShack (USA)
2. Chris Horner (USA), Team RadioShack (USA)
3. Laurens Ten Dam (NED), Rabobank Cycling Team (NED)

General Classification After Stage 7
1. Chris Horner (Team RadioShack)
2. Levi Leipheimer (Team RadioShack)
3. Tom Danielson (Garmin-Cervelo)
4. Christian Vande Velde (Garmin-Cervelo)
5. Tejay Van Garderen (HTC-Highroad)
6. Laurens Ten Dam (Rabobank)
7. Rory Sutherland (UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling)
8. Andy Schleck (Leopard Trek)
9. Steve Morabito (BMC Racing)
10. Ryder Hesjedal (Garmin-Cervelo)

Jersey Leaders After Stage 7
Amgen Leader Jersey – Chris Horner (USA), Team RadioShack (USA)
California Travel & Tourism King of the Mountains Jersey – Jonathan Patrick McCarty (USA), Team Spidertech Powered by C10 (CAN)
Herbalife Sprint Jersey – Peter Sagan (SVK), Liquigas-Cannondale (ITA)
Rabobank Best Young Rider Jersey – Tejay Van Garderen (USA), HTC-Highroad (USA)
Amgen’s Breakaway from Cancer® Most Courageous Rider Jersey – Alexander Efimkin (RUS), Team Type 1-sanofi (USA)

Galleries: 2011 Amgen Tour of California | Bikes, Personalities, and Scenes

Photo: Leonard Basobas/LB Photos

Stage 7 - Claremont to Mt. Baldy (121.9km)

The penultimate day of the 2011 Amgen Tour of California will feature the ultimate proving ground for those still in search of a stage win and for those with any hope of finishing on the final podium in Thousand Oaks.

Stage 7 Route (from the Amgen Tour of California website):
"If the Stage 6 individual time trial created some separation between the contenders and the chasers, Stage 7 will be the ultimate test of the rider’s resolve to capture the yellow jersey. Did they leave it all on the road in Solvang or did they hold back enough to survive one of the most difficult stages in the history of bicycle racing in the USA? It’s been called the Queen’s Stage and the first true mountain top finish in the Amgen Tour of California’s history. It has been compared to the epic stages of the European Grand Tours. This is the training ground for many of the local racers in southern California, but only a handful has done the entre route and none have done it after six days of racing over 700 miles! There is no question that the winner of the 2011 Amgen Tour of California will be decided on the final 15 switchbacks to the finish on Mt Baldy.

The race begins in the college town of Claremont. The Claremont Colleges are universally regarded as one of the best college consortiums in the world. Two neutral circuits in Claremont will get the rider’s ready for the first climb of the day. Just 3.5 miles from the start, the riders will face an eight mile climb to the Village of Baldy and their first KOM. An acute left turn at the summit will provide them another mile of climbing up Glendora Ridge Road. From here they have 12 miles of narrow and twisting roads that gradually descend to a fast and technical descent down the backside of Glendora Mountain Rd. The vistas are spectacular throughout the Angeles National Forest. Another descent down East Fork will take the riders to Hwy 39 and the town of Azusa. Heading east, the race dips into the City of Glendora for the only Sprint of the day. At this point, the number of flat miles for Stage 7 has dwindled to less than two and there are still nearly 30 miles to the finish.

A left turn onto Glendora Mountain Road and it is “Game On”. The next KOM is a nine mile climb. That is followed by 12 miles of a slight climb back to Baldy Village. A left turn back onto Baldy Road will see the race gain 1,000’ in just three miles…and the real climbing has not even started! At Ice House Canyon, the route makes a hard left turn and the sign to the ski area points towards the sky. Over the next 2.5 miles, the riders will face 10 switchbacks on a road that is so steep that many of the race vehicles cannot make it to the top. At 1.2 miles to go, the road straightens out. The finish line can be seen ahead. At .25 miles to go, the route makes a hard left and the racers face a final five switchbacks to the finish line. This will be the stage where legends are made and winners are decided."

The picturesque Danish town of Solvang, California played host to the 2011 Amgen Tour of California Women's International Time Trial Challenge, which was held in conjunction with Stage 6 of the men's race.

Connie Carpenter-Phinney, the Olympic Gold medalist in the 1984 road race, provided commentary for the event and set the stage by expecting some of the women to beat the time of some of the men, or "getting chicked." And the 13-strong field, comprised of national champions, world champions and Olympic medalists, certainly did not disappoint.

One of the riders out of the gate battling for a $10,000 prize pool was Solvang native, Alison Tetrick Starnes (Peanut Butter & Co.TWENTY12, pictured below). She would cover the difficult 15-mile course in a time of 36'11"07 to finish in 9th.

HTC-Highroad, which had five riders in the field, would set the early pace as US National Time Trial Champion, Evelyn Stevens, crossed the line in 35'08"08, only to be bested by teammate Amber Neben moments later with a time of 34'42"38. As Germany's Charlotte Becker completed the course in a time of 35'07"34, it looked as if HTC-Highroad might sweep the day's podium.

But it was the last rider out of the gate, Kristin Armstrong (Peanut Butter & Co. TWENTY12) would have the final say. On her Felt DA outfitted with SRAM Red and Zipp wheels, Armstrong set a consistent pace throughout the course, and came through the time check with the fastest split.

"People always ask me how my legs are feeling, I can’t say they felt good out there", said Armstrong afterward. "If they felt great I am in trouble. They didn’t feel great because I was hurting so bad.”

A block headwind made the final miles of the course brutal, but Armstrong crossed the finish line 13 seconds ahead of HTC-Highroad's Amber Neben.

"The course is great," commented Armstrong. "It was a race of truth. I told the media last night that the strongest rider would win today. It had technicality…it had wind…it had uphill…it had downhill. There wasn’t one thing that any one person had as a strength. It was mix out there. We are all strong on certain sections and other sections we suffer.”

Gallery: 2011 Amgen Tour of California Women's International Time Trial Challenge

Photo: Laurie Ostrow (top); Ed Rubinstein (middle, bottom)