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Arthritis Foundation’s 16th Annual California Coast Classic Bicycle Tour kicks off in San Francisco

September 19, 2016


The 16th annual California Coast Classic Bike Tour (CCC), presented by Amgen, will begin this Saturday, Sept. 24, 2016, at the Hard Rock Café in San Francisco. Over 250 cyclists will depart for an eight-day fundraising tour of iconic Highway One that will finish in Los Angeles on Saturday, October 1. 

The California Coast Classic is the leading fundraising event for the Arthritis Foundation. This eight-day, full-service, fully-supported ride along California’s scenic Pacific Coast Highway raises funds to help support the Arthritis Foundation’s vital research, advocacy and programs for people with arthritis. Arthritis is America’s leading cause of disability, affecting over 50 million adults and over 300,000 children. The 16th annual ride aims to raise over $1 million.

Each day’s sights, sounds, and scents are local and different. After a catered, hot breakfast, riders set off at their own pace following a clearly marked route. Rest stops are available every 20 to 25 miles to refuel and relax. Roving SAG wagons and mechanical support ensure rider safety.

After each leg of the ride, most riders opt to camp at top campsites where they receive massages, mobile chargers, WiFi, hot showers, restrooms, and laundry. Wine and beer tastings, sumptuous dinners, raffles, events and honoree presentations are also held nightly.

“When you support the California Coast Classic, you not only experience a bucket list bike ride down our beautiful coast, but also help us fund critical research and resources for those living with arthritis. The disease closely affects some of our riders, while some are simply looking for an inspiring event to be a part of. Regardless, the CCC Bike Tour is a great way to experience the power of standing together and giving back to the community,” said CCC director Shannon Marang-Cox. “Together, over 250 cyclists, volunteers and supporters will embark on this 525 mile journey to help us reach our goal of raising over $1 million to help find a cure for this disease.”

The CCC encourages members of the community to see the riders off as they begin their 500+ mile journey down the coast!

Kickoff Date/Time: Saturday, September 24, 2016 at 8:00 a.m. PST

Kickoff Location: Hard Rock Café San Francisco, 39 Pier #256 San Francisco, CA 94133

Departure Time:  Riders will pedal out at 8:30 a.m. SHARP!

For additional information on the ride, to make a donationor to register for the 17th Annual California Coast Classic Bike Tour in September 2017, please click Here. 

Look for live updates and photos from the tour on Instagram (@cacoastclassicbiketour) and Facebook using the hashtag #cacoastclassic.

If you are a member of the media who would like to meet up with our riders at any point along the California coast when the riders are nearest you, please coordinate with Lauren Fallert: [email protected] or 412-780-5000. 

About the Arthritis Foundation

The Arthritis Foundation is the Champion of Yes. Leading the fight for the arthritis community, the Foundation helps conquer everyday battles through life-changing information and resources, access to optimal care, advancements in science and community connections. The Arthritis Foundation’s goal is to chart a winning course, guiding families in developing personalized plans for living a full life – and making each day another stride towards a cure.