Race organizers have met with Armstrong’s representatives.

[view:node_ad=5]After Lance Armstrong’s announcement to return to
professional bicycling, fans have been holding their breath to see which races
he will participate in during 2009.

AEG, the company that
puts on the AMGEN Tour of California has now announced that they have met with
Armstrong’s representatives, and that they would like to see him a part of this
year’s race.

"We applaud the commitment that Lance Armstrong has
made to return to cycling for the purpose of raising awareness for cancer. All
of us at AEG, the Amgen Tour of California,
and Breakaway from Cancer™ share his commitment to supporting those who are
engaged in this important fight," said Andrew Messick, President, AEG
Sports, owner and operator of the Amgen Tour of California. 
"The level of competition, international attention, commitment to fair and
clean racing, and passionate fans for which the Amgen Tour of California has become
known, make our event a perfect fit for his noble endeavor."

"We met with Lance's representatives yesterday in New
York and outlined a broad plan to help our Breakaway from Cancer™ charity and
the Lance Armstrong Foundation make an important difference in the lives with
those afflicted with cancer.  It is our hope to see Lance Armstrong and
his Astana teammates in our race next year," continued Messick.

Santa Clarita has been designated as a host city for the Tour
of California in February, and would play host to Armstrong’s stage 8 start
line if he decides to participate.  

For further information on the 2009 Amgen Tour of California,
please visit www.amgentourofcalifornia.com.