Big Bear, CA, April 18, 2012, 3:00pm – In an effort to educate Bear Valley students about the upcoming Amgen Tour of California as well as promote a healthy lifestyle and enlighten students about cycling as a sport, Paul Zamoyta, Board Trustee for the Bear Valley Unified School District and avid cyclist, hosted assemblies at the three elementary schools last week and this week. Joining Mr. Zamoyta were Connor McCutcheon and three South African top amateur and professional cyclists who are currently training in the Big Bear Valley. McCutcheon grew up in Big Bear and, along with fellow team mate, Louis Meintjes, are representatives for the Simple Green American team. Jos le Roux, a member of the South African National Team and Christiaan Kriek, professional cyclist for the Jelly Belly team, discussed some of the equipment, clothing (known as kits), training, and race day practices used by these and other amateur and professional cyclists. Worthy of mention, Louis at age 20, is the U23, or under 23 time trial champion of South Africa. Additionally, the students were informed of a Bike Safety Check event at the Sheriff’s Station on May 12th. The Amgen Tour of California is an 800 mile/8 day bike race with Big Bear hosting the Stage 6 event on May 18thwith the day’s ride ending at Snow Summit.
