Sacramento

Since its founding in 1849, Sacramento has grown into a cosmopolitan state capital while retaining its Gold Rush flavor. Downtown Sacramento serves as the heart of the region and boasts more than 150 restaurants, nightclubs and other amenities that keep the locals and visitors busy. Sacramento is also home to some of the best physically-minded terrain in the county - with the 32 miles of the American River bike trail leading the way. The region boasts more than 200 wineries, a multitude of beautiful golf courses with affordable green fees, more than 25 thought-provoking museums, and professional sports from the Pacific Coast League Champions the Sacramento Rivercats, the WNBA's Sacramento Monarchs and the NBA's Sacramento Kings. In addition to Sacramento's own thriving amenities, the city is located in the center of northern California-with Lake Tahoe, the Napa Valley and San Francisco all located within a short driving distance.

"Sacramento is honored to be named the start city for the Amgen Tour of California. The entire community welcomed and embraced this terrific event the last two years, and it's a testament to our efforts that we'll be hosting the first stage in 2009. We're delighted to move to the center of the cycling map."