AEG Sports Senior VP and Amgen Tour of California Exec Dir Kristin Bachochin Klein said she would like to "expand not only the men's race, but the women's race," too, as the cycling event enters its 10th year, according to James Raia of CYCLINGNEWS.com. Bachochin Klein, who also serves as a USA Cycling BOD member, added, "When I say expand, I may not mean with the number of days. But I would say quality versus quantity and continue to make it bigger and better every year." She said of biomedical company Amgen extending its title sponsorship of the event beyind this year, "We don't speak on behalf of contracts, but what I will say is that Amgen has been a terrific partner and we look forward to them continuing to be with us." As to whether the race needs something new or different after 10 years, Bachochin Klein said, "I think anybody who says they're comfortable where they are, that's not the right answer. It's amazing we are in our 10th year. But we also know we are in our infancy. It's not just a professional bike race. It's about raising awareness and having ancillary events. It's about using cycling as that vehicle to lead to a healthy lifestyle." Bachochin Klein said of new ideas the race may adopt, "There's always something new with technology. Whether it's social media or the Tour Tracker. It's amazing to me how fans can engage with the race because most of them are through social media. We'll also continue to look outside just the men's professional racing (CYCLINGNEWS.com, 5/5).
