Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why does the Tour paint markings on our streets?
A: The Tour does NOT mark the course with directions. Tour officials may carry spray chalk (not paint) to mark road hazards only (e.g. potholes). They don't need to mark the route--they have a police escort and many team and official's cars to make sure racers stay on track.
If you see paint markings, they may belong to another event. There are literally dozens of organized tours and bike events in this county each year. Most of the organizers will mark their routes. Sometimes street graffiti is done by spectators. In past races we have seen the remnants of graffiti, which is NOT approved by the Tour, the City of Santa Rosa, or the County of Sonoma.
Q: If I visit Santa Rosa for the Tour, where can I stay?
A: Visit the Santa Rosa Convention & Visitors Bureau website for hotel and travel information.
Flamingo Conference Resort & Spa is presenting an Amgen Tour of California package that offers deluxe accommodations for two people that includes continental breakfast buffet and health club passes for $139 deluxe, $159 executive king for nights of Saturday, February 14 through Monday, February 16.
Also, the new Hilton Garden Inn is looking forward to hosting the Amgen Tour in February 2009. The hotel is less than one mile from the Sonoma County Airport and provides complimentary shuttle service, indoor pool and hot tub, and workout facility. We are pleased to offer a deluxe king or double queen room complete with the Garden Sleep System bed, refrigerator, microwave, and complimentary "Health Beat Breakfast" all for only $139 per night. We are located next to the Airport Cinemas and restaurants. For additional information please see our website at sonomacountyairport.stayhgi.com or call Kip Zook at (707) 545-0444.
Q: What does that term mean?
A: In the world of bicycling, there a lot of terms used regularly that are unfamiliar to the average person. Check out the Tour of California's Bicycle Racing Terminology page for a primer. Wikipedia also has an extensive Glossary of Bicycling.
Q: What is the LOC?
A: LOC stands for Local Organizing Committee, which is the group of staff and volunteers who organize the various aspects of the Tour of California in Santa Rosa. There are four LOC chairs.