Preparing For Amgen Tour

Sonora, CA – A group from Sonora went to Southern California last week to learn more about the upcoming Amgen Tour.

The planning symposium was attended by leaders from host cities, and making the trip from Sonora were City Administrator Tim Miller, Mayor Bill Canning and T.C. Visitor’s Bureau representatives Sandy Gordon and Bruce Tepper.

“They discussed the logistics of staging the race, and reviewed all of the host city obligations,” says Miller. “The city will provide traffic control, street closures, sanitation services and waste collection. The Visitor’s Bureau will be working on all of the hospitality aspects.”

Miller adds that a local volunteer committee will also be formed to work on race day activities, marketing and sponsorship opportunities. City officials hope the country’s largest bicycle race will draw a heavy number of tourists to the region.

“Depending on the venue and location, they said you can expect upwards of 10,000 or more people on the day of the event,” said Miller. “It should be great for the city and county, and all of our local businesses.”

One thing that went unanswered during the symposium is the actual route. Amgen Tour officials say Stage Four will start in Sonora and end in Clovis, but it has not been decided how they will get from point A to B.

“Over the next few months, representatives from the Tour will be here to look at the route, lodging and where we are going to stage the start of race,” adds Miller. “We’re looking forward to all of that.”

The 750 mile race will run from May 13-20.