Temecula Valley Century Ride Rolls into Murrieta Saturday

It is not too late to sign up for the Temecula Valley Century ride which takes off Saturday from Murrieta's Town Square Park.

Presented by Rabobank and Temecula Velo Cycling Club, the Temecula Valley Century ride offers a choice of scenic routes for riders of all skill levels beginning at 7 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 29.

The second annual event will benefit “It’s Not About The Bike,” a nonprofit that supports local charities and organizations such as Jacob’s House, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest County, Michelle’s Place, S.A.F.E. Alternatives For Everyone, Heart for Children, Cast A Shadow, Temecula Women’s Club, the Temecula Bicycle Coalition, the Temecula Bike Train, Jon Boy’s, Inc. and The Gary Sinise Foundation.

There are three rides to choose from that highlight scenic Temecula Valley and Wine Country: the Century, the Metric Century and the Wine Country Tour.

The Century Route is a challenging 100-mile course highlighting some of the best cycling routes in the valley: De Luz, Wine Country and La Cresta. This year Hammer Nutrition is the on-course nutrition sponsor.

The 62-mile Metric Century is challenging but with less climbing. The course includes the Wine Country and the short but steep ascent of Pauba Road.

The 47-mile Wine Country Tour is for those who are ready to add some distance to their workouts. This course is mostly flat with a few short rises along the way.

New this year is the Rabobank 10-Miler, which is free and ideal for the beginner. This ride is limited to 500 riders; participants must register online.

All rides begin at Town Square Park, which is accessible from Juniper Street and Memorial Way next to the Murrieta Senior Center.

Riders must obey traffic laws and practice safe and sane bike handling; this is not a closed course.

After the ride, enjoy the fun at the Bike and Health Expo beginning at noon back at Town Square Park.

There will be live music featuring the Ravelers, a gourmet meal by Cynthia Brooks Distinctive Catering and a Sierra Nevada Brewing Company Beer and Wine Garden.

A kid’s fun zone kicks off with Temecula Bicycle Coalition Cyclocross races at 11:30 a.m. and a Big Wheel Challenge at noon.

On Friday, renowned cycling coach, Chris Carmichael and his professional coaches from Carmichael Training Systems, will be conducting a skills clinic.  The $300 value is available for a $50 donation to “It’s Not About The Bike.” 

To reserve a spot for the skills clinic, contact Event/Ride Director George Niotta at 951-303-5827 or email temeculavelo@gmail.com.

To view the routes and register, visit Temeculavalleycentury.com/. 

Registration must be completed by Friday.