Educators Receive Curriculum for Tour of California

LOS ANGELES, CA (BRAIN)–-In preparation for the highly anticipated return of the Amgen Tour of California professional cycling road race next month, a specially developed classroom curriculum has been distributed to fourth- through sixth-grade instructors and students in the 12 California "host" cities selected for the 650-mile race.

Through interactive lessons, the 2007 curriculum educates students about the history of cycling and includes bike safety and maintenance tips. Provided to more than 200 schools, the booklet also provides information about the state of California, including targeted lesson plans that use cycling as a means to teach core subjects such as math, science and geography.

"Few childhood activities are as enjoyable and invigorating as riding a bicycle, and we want to use cycling as a platform for introducing the joys of outdoor recreation to young Californians," said Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. “This informative handbook can help make our kids safer, smarter and healthier."

The informative lessons about team sports, the history of cycling and the geography of California, coupled with fun activities such as weather charting, crossword puzzles and word searches, allow educators to reach students with engaging materials developed specifically for their age group.

Some host cities are creating additional activities to augment the curriculum, including drawing, coloring and essay contests, as well as spirit and participation contests among local schools.

The Amgen Tour of California takes place Feb. 18-25. Host cities for the eight stages include: San Francisco, Sausalito, Santa Rosa, Sacramento, Stockton, San Jose, Seaside, San Luis Obispo, Solvang, Santa Barbara, Santa Clarita and Long Beach.