Visalia, CA - February 19, 2009 - Another sunny day, another starting host city."Located in the heart of the Central Valley, Visalia is in the center of the nation’s breadbasket where more than 250 commodities are grown. Nearby natural wonders abound with Visalia serving as the gateway to the Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks and Sequoia National Forest, spectacularly scenic year-round wonderlands and hubs of activity, including the world’s largest tree (General Sherman Tree), the deepest canyon in North America, the National Christmas Tree, the Trail of 100 Giants, and the highest peak in the continental U.S., Mt. Whitney. Visalia is the cultural, financial and employment center for a region that is home to half a million residents. With an emphasis on community and family, Visalia provides the benefits of a traditional hometown atmosphere and the amenities found in a flourishing urban center."
Having been to the Tour de France, back in 2003, I was constantly amazed by the support that even the tiniest town, either host or just along the route, would muster for the the Grand Boucle. In this respect, the Amgen Tour of California has been no different.
Each town has turned out and represented their respective communities well. And though the general race knowledge may be somewhat lagging for the average American fan who shows up to these events, they sound equally as passionate as their European counterparts.
Photo: Leonard Basobas
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