The California Giant Berry Farms cycling team is competing this week at the Tour of the Gila in Silver City, New Mexico, according to a company news statement.
The five-stage road race has been a favorite of the Cal Giant team for the past several years, but this year might be a little more memorable for the riders, the group said.
The incentive to win this year is even greater since the Cal Giant riders will have the opportunity to finally race against seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong.
Race organizers confirmed that Lance Armstrong is returning to competition at this week’s Tour of the Gila after recovering from collarbone surgery.
After initially being barred from riding in the five-day event because of an International Cycling Union (UCI) rule, Mr Armstrong was subsequently cleared to compete as an individual.
For 23 years the Tour of the Gila has remained one of the State’s most challenging early season stage races and is renowned for its tough climbs, hot weather, and fast professional fields, the 2009 hilly five-day stage race begins on 29 April in Silver City, NM.
Riding for California Giant will be James Mattis, Justin England, Jesse Moore, John Hunt and Ozzie Olmos.
Riders and spectators in Silver City, NM, will also have the added benefit of purchasing California Giant strawberries at the local Wal-Mart Supercenter.
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