The 2013 Amgen Tour of California is coming to the City of Santa Clarita with the Stage 3 Finish on Tuesday, May 14 and a Stage 4 Start on Wednesday, May 15.

Many cycling events have been scheduled around the Amgen Tour, including the 5th annual Santa Clarita Century Ride and Expo, which benefitted the Child and Family Center.

On Saturday, March 30, more than 600 cyclists came out to participate in the 100-mile, 50-mile or 25-mile ride. There was also a 5.5-mile family ride for younger participants.

All rides began and ended at the Westfield Valencia Town Center. The Century and Half Century took participants into Acton and Palmdale, while the Quarter Century and family ride stayed among the Paseos and bike lanes of Santa Clarita.

Century Director Irene Johnson was pleased with the turn out.

“We started five years ago as a very, very small event, and it’s grown into this tremendous event for the community. One hundred percent of our proceeds benefit the Child and Family Center.”

The event was sponsored by the City of Santa Clarita, the Child and Family Center, Road Bike Action Magazine, Bicycle John’s, Elks Lodge #2379, Small Dog Creative, Bird in the Sky Satellite Communications, Super Fresh Marketplace, Abundant Harvest Organics and Waste Management.

Local businesses such as Encore Dance Fitness, Runner’s Lane Shoe Store, Castaic Lake Water Agency and Sam’s Club congregated at Valencia Town Center, as well as food truck vendors and entertainers for the Century Expo.

The dates for next year’s ride have yet to be announced. Visit the Santa Clarita Century website for more information.