Entegra Connection Magazine Spring 2014 | Page 33

A CHARMING STRETCH Have you ever experienced this before? The "oh-I-so-want-to-be-there" moment as the picturesque frenzy of the Tour de France unfolds on your flat screen? Perhaps it's even a bullet on your bucket list. But knowing you'll need to leave your rig behind crossing the ocean blue can put a damper on that pursuit. So come discover our alternative. Head to the Amgen Tour of California. TOUR DE CALIFORNIA Billed as America's largest and most prestigious cycling event, this race captures everything the Tour de France offers. Charming, picturesque towns. Entertaining, costumed crowds. Jagged mountain peaks. And you'll be there too — up close — feeling the swoosh of the peloton as it zips by and raising your wine glass in a toast to your favorite rider. Afterward, you'll find the only thing the Tour de France might have on California is the number of people who speak French. Started in 2006, the 700-mile road race crosses California's iconic highways, byways and coastlines featuring the big names from the cycling world. Past participants have included Olympic medalists, Tour de France contenders and world cycling champions. "There is so much excitement around this race," said Jay Jamison, who serves as general manager of the Pismo Coast Village RV Resort. He is also a commissioner on the California Travel and Tourism Commission. "It highlights the beauty of the state — especially the coast. It's a great event to have here." It's also a natural fit for the recreation culture of the area. Rare is the rig traveling without bikes strapped to their bumpers, Jamison said. The race goes north to south, lasts eight days and travels through 11 host cities, each offering a unique sliver of California culture. There is ample opportunity and space to find that sweet spot for your rig and MAP THE Finish line share in the California adventure. trip planner continued trip planner | entegra coach connection 33