Two new cancer awareness group rides will give amateur cyclists the chance to ride part of Amgen Tour of California course.
The inaugural Breakaway Rides presented by Specialized will be held a month before the stage race, which starts on 16 May 2010.
A percentage of all entry fees will go to Amgen’s Breakaway from Cancer initiative and four non-profit partners to help with cancer research and cancer awareness across the US.
Those who donate additional funds will be eligible to receive prizes including Specialized S-Works Tarmac and Roubaix bikes.
The first ride on 11 April will match the stage eight route, passing through Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village and Agoura Hills. The second will follow the stage two route from Davis to Santa Rosa on 25 April.
Amgen’s Kristen Davis said: “We are excited to partner with AEG Sports and Specialized for these events to broaden the awareness of the important resources available to cancer patients, survivors and caregivers.”
Since it launched the Breakaway from Cancer initiative in 2005, Amgen has supported charity cycling events including the Livestrong Challenges and the Dempsey Challenge.