AMGEN

"The Amgen Tour of California is a major win for Bakersfield said Mayor Harvey L. Hall. It means a big economic impact to our community. This event is being held in Bakersfield because our community came together for the spectacular Stage Five finish in 2010 and showed how well we all can work together. We had a tremendous outpouring of volunteers who made the 2010 event a success and we look forward to having the same level of commitment for the 2012 Individual Time Trial."

Echoing his enthusiasm was Mike Maggard, Chairman of the Kern County Board of Supervisors. "In 2010, the Amgen Tour of California rode through spectacular Kern County scenery. The foothills were alive with the sights and sounds of outstanding athletes, and the images that were beamed throughout the world showed everyone the diverse nature that is Kern County. For 2012, the Individual Time Trial will provide a completely different experience. For an entire day, the cameras and attention will be right here."

"Bakersfield was host to Stage 5 of the 2010 Amgen Tour of California where an estimated 14,000 fans were on hand as Peter Sagan of Liquigas-Doimo out-sprinted the field to win the stage on Panorama Drive in front of Bakersfield College. This year was the first time the race came to Bakersfield in its five years of existence. Considered America's largest and most prestigious professional road cycling stage race, the seventh consecutive edition of the 2012 Amgen Tour of California will travel more than 750 miles from May 13 - 20, 2012.

The Bakersfield Sports Foundation thanks local presenting sponsor Mercy & Memorial Hospitals of Bakersfield for its continued support in bringing the Amgen Tour of California to Bakersfield.

About the Bakersfield Sports Foundation
The Bakersfield Sports Foundation was formed to encourage and promote fitness and sportsmanship through the sponsorship of competitive sporting activities. BSF, a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization, is the local organization responsible for overseeing the local organizing committee required by AEG to bid for the Amgen Tour of California.