Four years ago, the Tour of California finished up in the town where I live. I was able to walk about 5 minutes to a nice vantage point and watch them do 3 loops around the area.
Today, they did the same thing, but added a final smaller loop that passed by our house 2km from the finish.
During 2 separate days earlier this week, it passed within a few miles of my parents' house. It's one thing to watch bicycle racing on TV. It's completely different to watch it in person. And to watch them on TV riding some of your favorite routes. Admittedly, a bit faster than me... :)
