With the 2015 El Tour de Mesa quickly approaching its probably best to get some information out there that many of us are highly anticipating. For example, the route has changed significantly – the infamous climb on Shea has been removed. Unconfirmed reports cite the traffic and nearby construction as the leading culprits behind the decision to avoid Shea. Regardless of the reason, I know quite a few cyclists who are plenty happy to not climb that beast!
Registration/Packet Pick Up
One of my favorite aspects to the TDM and El Tour in Tucson is that Perimeter Cycling Association allows for same day registration. Packet pick up is not available on race day (except for the fun rides). Packet pick up will be held at the expo (as is usually the case) located at the Mesa convention center; 263 North Center St., Mesa, AZ 85201. Google map here.
Platinum Riders/Info
For those of you Platinum riders out there, make sure you get your platinum pass on Friday before the race as they are not available race day. To obtain platinum status at TDM you must finish the 72 mile race in under 3:00 hrs for male cyclists and 3:15 for female cyclists. Platinum facts:
- Required for entry into Platinum corral at events
- Passes available at Platinum meetings at Expo: El Tour de Mesa, El Tour de Tucson and Viva Bike Vegas ONLY
- Must attend Platinum meeting to acquire pass (Meeting for TDM 2015 is at 12pm and 6pm Friday before the race).
- Not available ride morning
- No Platinum designation required for Cochise Classic 165 and 95 mile distances; however, these are qualifying event distances
- Platinum corral closes 15 min before start of El Tour de Mesa and Viva Bike Vegas; platinum corral closes 30 minutes before start of El Tour de Tucson
Course Route Info
The route which does not include Shea this year.
2015 El Tour Criterium State Championships
This year the annual Crit race hosted by Two Wheel Jones Bicycles has been chosen as the State Championships. Come out and see some great Crit racing on tap. Very fast racing in a cool urban course right in the middle of downtown Mesa! Registration and more info here. Of course, for those who have always wanted to try out the crit race – this year there is a 1st Timer Crit Experience. What a great idea to get out there and try out one of these races. The proceeds of the 1st Timer Crit Experience are going to a local Autism Charity. It doesn’t get much better than that folks!