South Lake Tahoe, CA………….Mother Nature has dealt the Amgen Tour of California a difficult hand this morning, on this, their first foray into the Sierras. Officials moved the race from February to May two years ago recognizing the inclement conditions that can affect the State of California in February.

Of utmost concern for race officials is the safety of the riders, spectators, media and support crews along the race route. Working closely with local safety and highway officials, race organizers have made the decision to delay the start of the race. Officials announced minutes ago that the race has been pushed back to a 1:15pm start time based upon road conditions.

The forecast indicates that conditions should improve by early afternoon. Not only will the race be delayed but one of the pre-prepared contingency plans has been announced this morning as well. The race will start at Stateline as planned with a 1:15pm start and go through the City of South Lake Tahoe, along the west shore and end at Northstar.

An official announcement will be made at noon today as to whether or not this alternate Stage One Route for the Amgen Tour of California will permit the world’s most elite cyclists to match their wits and skill against the backdrop of the iconic scenery of the Lake Tahoe Basin.

Officials from Medalist Sports visited each of the Staged route areas numerous times during the months leading up to the event, and created contingency plans for each area taking into account scenarios that could come into play whether by Mother Nature or human hand. Officials have already pulled one of these contingency plans into play for the Pacific Coast Highway section of the ride where weather has caused a slide on Highway One.

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