The passion, excitement and drama of the Tour de France is coming to the big screen in Long Beach— in real time on Sunday, July 19 at the Art Theatre of Long Beach, 2025 E 4th St.
The public is invited to the free, live simulcast of the world’s greatest bicycle race on the Versus channel from 10am to noon. Tony Cruz, professional bicyclist and bicycle ambassador for the City of Long Beach, will host the festivities and provide his unique insights about bicycle racing. The public is encouraged to ride their bicycles to the Art Theatre and also to make a donation to benefit Miller Children’s Hospital at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center.
“I’m trying to foster the cycling culture here in Long Beach. What better way to do that than to bring the Tour de France, the world’s largest sporting event, to Long Beach,” Cruz said. “I’m excited to host the screening of one of the most difficult and challenging legs of the Tour de France at the Art Theatre. Most people wish they could follow the Tour de France in person … this is the next best thing. I’m encouraging folks to show up in their crazy and outrageous fan attire and join us for this great event.”
The simulcast will feature Stage 15, 129 miles with a mountain climb from Pontarlier in Eastern France into the Swiss Alps and Verbier, Switzerland. At this point, the front-runners’ ranks are being thinned just one week before the finish on the Champs-Élysées in Paris. Seven-time champion Lance Armstrong is currently in third place, within striking distance of an unprecedented eighth victory.
“This promises to be an exciting moment in Lance Armstrong’s comeback and the Tour de France itself, as well as a great opportunity for residents to get the flavor of the excitement and drama of the world’s preeminent bike race without going to Europe,” said Charles Gandy, City of Long Beach mobility coordinator. “As the City of Long Beach becomes more bike-friendly, we’re excited about providing this wonderful viewing opportunity for the community.”
Free indoor secure bike parking will be provided, and coffee and breakfast foods will be available for purchase.
More Information
(562) 570-6679
