For the first time in the race’s six-year history, bicycle fans and enthusiasts will have an opportunity to ride on the eighth and final stage of the 750-mile, Tour de France-style Amgen Tour of California’s “Nissan Ride Before the Pros,” culminating downtown at L.A. Live across from Staples Center on Sunday.
The creator, owner and producer of the Amgen Tour is Los Angeles-based AEG Sports, one of the leading sports and entertainment presenters in the world.
AEG, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Anschutz Company, owns or controls a collection of companies and sports franchises which include STAPLES Center, Home Depot Center, NOKIA Theatre L.A. LIVE, Los Angeles Kings, Galaxy, and management of privately held shares of the Los Angeles Lakers, among other entities worldwide.
“From day one, AEG has been committed to creating the world’s most popular and important annual cycling event,” said Tim Leiweke, President & CEO of AEG. “Our vision and mission has been to put cycling on the map in America while showcasing some of the best domestic and international cyclists in the world.”
“The Amgen Tour of California also creates an international showcase for the state of California and a world-class event that will one day rival the Tour de France.”
An eight-day event, this cycling road race features elite professional teams and athletes from around the world who will be competing for important, world-ranking points. This year, 16 of the top, prominent teams are competing in a challenging course that started on May 13 in Santa Rosa.`
The free ‘Nissan Ride Before the Pros,’ taking place from 8-9:30 a.m., will allow registered cyclists of all levels to ride on a five-mile, closed-circuit, downtown course.
Culver City and Santa Monica bike enthusiasts are welcome to participate.
The ride will begin and end at the official finish line where the professional riders will cross to complete the 42.6-mile stage they started in Beverly Hills on Rodeo Drive earlier in the day.
Along the way, riders will pass by thousands of residents and fans lining the streets cheering them on while waiting for the competitors.
“One of the most often made requests from our fans is for us to provide the opportunity for them to experience our race by riding the actual course like the pros,” said Kristin Bachochin, Executive Director, Amgen Tour and Senior Vice President, AEG Sports.
During and following the ‘Nissan Ride Before the Pros’ event, fans can enjoy the Lifestyle Festival held at the finish line at L.A. Live. The festival will feature a health and fitness expo, cancer awareness education, cycling gear, family activities, bike safety education, food, and entertainment.
In order to participate in the ride, interested fans must register prior to the event at amgentourofcalifornia.com/Nissan. Participants must be over the age of 18 or receive permission from a parent or legal guardian.
For more information, go to http://www.amgentourofcalifornia.com
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