Coverage of the Amgen Tour of California’s 2014 Route and Team Announcement.

Specific route details for the 2014 Amgen Tour of California professional cycling race were revealed today by AEG, presenter of the ninth annual event which will once again feature top professional teams and athletes from around the world.   The City of Santa Clarita returns as a host city for the Amgen Tour of California on Friday, May 16 and Saturday, May 17, 2014. This year marks the sixth time that Santa Clarita will serve as host city for the world-class event, and will be the first city in race history to host two stage starts.

Westfield Valencia Town Center will be a familiar location for the Amgen Tour of California, but a notable difference in this year’s race is Santa Clarita will also showcase Old Town Newhall for the first time in race history.  The newly-revitalized Main Street will be front and center for the first of two stage starts in Santa Clarita, drawing in an international community of cycling fans.  Riders can expect a fresh start and intimate experience in one of Southern California’s most unique communities, featuring historic points of interest and a premier arts and entertainment district.

On Friday, May 16, 2014, Santa Clarita will kick off Stage 6, starting on Main Street in Old Town Newhall, where riders will travel for approximately 95 miles until reaching the finish stage at Mountain High North, the second true mountaintop finish of 2014.

The teams will return to Santa Clarita the morning of Saturday, May 17, 2014 for the Start of Stage 7 at the popular Westfield Valencia Town Center Mall, kicking off an 89 mile journey to the finish line in Pasadena, but not before passing the Rose Bowl and the iconic Colorado Street Bridge.

According to economic impact studies, the 2013 race alone generated approximately $1 million dollars towards the local economy. The 2014 Amgen Tour of California is also anticipated to bring a similar significant positive economic impact to Santa Clarita.

A series of local events will be held in the lead-up to the race, including the return of the popular Hit the Trail community bike ride.  For more information on the Amgen Tour of California, volunteer and sponsorship opportunities, as well as events, visit Santa-Clarita.com/TourofCA.