We  are not just a wine and food destination, Santa Rosa is a cycling mecca! We are  extremely pleased to have the honor of being the first Stage of the AMGEN Tour  of California.  It is recognized as one  of America’s greatest races and we get to watch the start!

2010 AMGEN Tour of California Finish in Santa Rosa, Levi and Lance.

My excitement and anticipation grew as the cyclist rounded the corner to the finish. I could almost feel their heart racing, the intensity and smell the competition in the air. I remember well, feeling part of the race watching the cyclist speed past me only meters away. Seeing them strive to finish in 2010 and I get watch them start in 2012. Well, you can too. Where else can you get front row seats to watch 18 of the world’s top professional cycling teams pour onto the streets of Santa Rosa in a journey to achieve cycling greatness.

But what if YOU want to feel the same thing these cyclists feel? What would it be like to ride with a professional cyclist? Levi Leipheimer’s GranFondo offers that!  Not personally having ridden in the event, I have attended the Dinner with Levi Event; Festival del Fondo that takes place a few days before the race. I do intend to ride this year and can’t wait for the opportunity to ride with Levi. This is an event for everyone! Living in Santa Rosa, Levi has been such an amazing
advocate and this charity event helps raise awareness for at-risk children.

Owners; Rene Byck and Sonia Barwick Byck with Levi at Paradise Ridge Winery, host Winery to the Festival del Fondo.

We look forward to bringing you more information about these events. Keep an eye out for our next blog that will highlight details about these Santa Rosa cycling events!