Tour de Murrieta Returns March 9-11

The seventh annual Tour de Murrieta is ready to roll into town March 9-11.

It will feature some of the most competitive race teams in California as cyclists wind through the Historic Downtown Murrieta area and beyond.

Friday will bring the return of the popular IE Bikes time trial. Unlike any other time trial in Southern California, its European style terrain consisting primarily of paved roadway and a 1.2-mile portion of unpaved/hard compact dirt will be challenging to all riders.

Saturday’s Jax Bicycles Grandprix and Sunday’s Rabobank Circuit Race courses remain unchanged, with Saturday offering a lightning fast 1-mile course in Historic Downtown Murrieta, and Sunday’s circuit a rolling 3.5-mile course.

Highlighting this year’s event will be the Nature Valley Pro Chase Race Qualifier, also known as the American Idol of Cycling. Based on performance, Men category 1 and Women 1-2, race participants will be vying for an opportunity to race at the Nature Valley Grand Prix, where they will receive free race entries, travel subsidies, media appearances, host housing, coaching, team staff support, ground transportation and team kit.

“The commitment from the race committee is to keep our event fresh, interesting, safe and challenging for our racers,” said Race Director Aaron Goodale. “Being part of Southern California’s only race qualifier for the Nature Valley Grand Prix and potentially identifying the next American cycling superstar is something we want to be a part of."

Also new this year are the professional timing/result services from an organization that has experience with Tour of Utah, US Pro Cycling Challenge and USA Cycling National Championships.

And locals should not forget the popular Pacific Western Bank Kid’s Race, to be held at 12:05 p.m. Saturday, March 10. It’s free, however kids are asked to bring a canned food item for their participation, which in turn serve the local food pantries. 

Back in 2012 as well is the Jorge Alvarado Team Competition. 

“In 2010 we vowed to never forget our fallen teammate and friend, so once again teams with the highest placed riders on final GC will be presented with a hand sculptured crystal,” said Technical Director Ernie Sanchez.

Organizers said this year's 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 the stages held downtown, locals are invited to bring their family and lawn chairs. They should plan to enjoy some of the best local food, snacks, jumpy house and cycling industry product exhibitions at the event’s Expo, to be held at the parking lot at Juniper and Adams streets.

For more information about specific times and locations log onto Socalcycling.com or Capoolsracing.org