Cyclists to compete in Westlake

In an effort to encourage exercise and promote healthy living, the city of Westlake Village will host its inaugural Conquer the Canyons Stage Race this weekend.

The two-day bicycle race is banking on cycling's recent surge in popularity to attract both amateurs and professionals to compete.

The race, planned as an annual event, will be divided into three stages. Riders will be required to participate in all segments in order to complete the race.

On Saturday, racers will compete in a 4-mile, uphill time trial along Mulholland Highway and a 2.23-mile circuit race along Lindero Canyon, Lakeview and Agoura roads.

The event will conclude Sunday with a 7.3-mile road race that loops around Kanan, Cornell, Mulholland and Troutdale roads.

The race was designed by Michael Epstein Sports Productions (MESP), an Agoura Hills company that organizes and promotes lifestyle athletic competitions.

MESP Inc. has been organizing races for 20 years and some of its past events include the HiTec Adventure Racing Series, FogDog 24-Hour Adventure and the Nautica Malibu Triathlon.

"Conquer the Canyons was modeled after the Tour of California and Tour of France, but it is smaller in design and is more suited for amateurs," said Epstein, president of MESP.

Racers will be divided into categories based on past race experience. Prizes will be awarded, with $3,000 going to the overall winner of the men's professional category.

The event is also designed to encourage children to live an active and healthy lifestyle.

"We want to teach the kids that exercise can be fun," said Epstein.

On Sunday, kids will be treated to a BMX stunt team show and a raffle drawing for a new mountain bike at Westlake Village City Hall.

In order to be eligible for the drawing, kids will have to chart calories, eat fruits and vegetables and exercise for a week. Children who diligently stick to this healthy regimen will be rewarded with raffle tickets.

"Every day more information comes out that shows how important diet and exercise are," said Epstein. "Events like this one help to get the message out and encourage people to be healthy."

Those interested in finding out more information or registering for the race should visit www.MESP.com.