Tour de Murrieta: Bigger and Better for 2011
With the feel of Spring in the air and the days starting to get a little longer, it could only mean one thing, it bicycle racing time in Murrieta! Team CA Pools/DeWalt Cycling Team is proud to announce its 5th Annual Tour de Murrieta that be held March 11-13 and will once again feature some of the most competitive race teams in California.
In 2010 the event faced some challenges by having to limit the number of participants that could participate in Friday’s Time Trial, so for 2011 some positive race structuring has taken place. The time trial will be held on Friday, March 11, and with the input of several high caliber racers in the business, a European style course has been coordinated featuring paved and a 1.2 mile portion of unpaved/dirt roads in the city of Murrieta. Saturday’s and Sunday’s courses remain unchanged, with Saturday offering a lightning fast-Grand Prix on a 1-mile course in Historic Downtown Murrieta, and Sunday’s circuit race on a 3.5 mile course.
“We want to keep our event fresh, interesting, safe and challenging for our racers,” said Race Director Rich Payne. “It’s what keeps them coming back,” he said. Other changes for the event include a separation of categories for the Pro Men 1-2 field. With this category selling out every year, the race will now offer a Men’s Elite Category 2 race.
Although the Pacific Western Bank – Kid’s Race held on Saturday, March 12, at 12:05 p.m. usually steals the show, this year the team will be introducing the first annual Jorge Alvarado Team Competition which promises to be just as popular for the Elite and Amateur racers.
“In 2010 the cycling community lost a great cyclist and friend, as one of Jorge’s former teams we vowed then to never forget him or his aggressive riding style and therefore we are proud to introduce the Jorge Alvarado Team Competition,” said Technical Director Ernie Sanchez. “All categories are eligible; the highest placed five team riders in the final GC will be presented with a unique crystal at the podium. This competition will no doubt ensure Jorge’s style of racing is present every year at the Tour de Murrieta” he said.
The Tour de Murrieta promises to be one of the best events held yet. Saturday’s course will provide excellent racing and places to view the event. With all of our stages held downtown, bring the family, lawn chairs, and prepare to enjoy some of the best local food, snacks, jumpy house, and cycling industry product exhibitions at the event’s Expo held at the Senior Center parking lot located at Juniper and Adams Streets.
For more information about specific times and locations log onto www.socalcycling.com or www.capoolsracing.org
