Big Bear, CA, April 17th, 2016 – Big Bear Cycling and the Amgen Tour of California are kicking off the local road cycling season with a very special community event. The Amgen Tour of California has a long and close relationship with Big Bear Lake, hosting the 2010, 2012 and weather relocated 2015 events and now, a special local Community Ride with professional cycling icon and Amgen Tour of California race ambassador Jens Voigt.
“Big Bear Lake is not only a great partner but a special place for the Amgen Tour of California, having been a host city for three events in the races first decade. With the 2016 edition racing from San Diego to Sacramento May 15 – 22, although Big Bear Lake is not a 2016 host city, we wanted to find a way for the Big Bear Lake community to be part of the event in some way” stated Kristin Klein, President, Amgen Tour of California.
Jens Voigt, the recently retired German Trek – Segafredo rider, wore the yellow jersey twice in the Tour de France, is a record FIVE-time Criterium International winner and a former UCI World Hour Record Holder. He was known for his very aggressive riding style and coined the cycling phrase “Shut up Legs” for his aggressive attitude. Jens is now an analyst, commentator and spokesperson for the Amgen Tour of California in his role as race ambassador.
Craig Smith, President, Big Bear Cycling commented “Big Bear Lake hosts many professional cyclists annually as a training destination, but to host an event with Jens Voigt, a true racing icon, is very special. Many thanks to our partner Amgen Tour of California for making this opportunity available to us.”
The intermediate level social ride, limited to 100 riders, will begin at Nottingham’s Tavern and travel west across Arctic Circle to Lakeview Point, then return across the north shore of Big Bear Lake and end with an autograph/photograph session and short informal press conference at Nottingham’s.
For additional information, please contact Craig Smith, Big Bear Cycling at (909) 866-8467. RSVP IS REQUIRED (to bigbearcycling@gmail.com) for this event as we have limited space.
Jens Voigt – Big Bear Lake Schedule of Events:
Thursday, April 21, 2016
- 12:00 – 2:00PM – Ride
- 2:00 – 2:30PM – Autographs/Photos
- 3:00 – 3:30PM – Press Conference
- 3:30PM – Event Concludes/Jens Departs
Ride Photo Stops
- Arctic Circle/San Gorgonio Mountains (Group)
- Big Bear Lake Dam/Bridge (Group)
- Nottingham’s (Riders Opportunity)
