Tour of California could be Tour de France caliber

“The Amgen Tour of California could become the first major cycling stage race to be held outside of Europe. Pat McQuaid, the International Cycling Union president, said Wednesday the California event is a contender to eventually become part of the ProTour, which includes events such as the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia. The ProTour is the highest level of cycling and would ensure the Tour of California attracts the world’s best teams and racers every year.”