Quad Knopf Sequoia Cycling Classic set for weekend

Pros will compete in the Quad Knopf Sequoia Cycling Classic in California this weekend with hopes of taking home more than $40,000 in cash and prizes.

Racing for the two-day NRC event kicks off at 8 am on Saturday at the local Exeter high school and 7:30 am on Sunday in downtown Visalia.

Leading up to the race, several of the racers were scheduled to visit four Visalia and Exeter, California, area elementary schools Friday to teach students about bike safety and encourage an active lifestyle.

"It's a chance to talk to students about bike safety and how important it is to wear a helmet and be safe," said Mike Camarena, liaison for the race's pro teams.

According to race director Shari Clark, the racers also told children about the importance of pursuing an active lifestyle, staying in school, and participating in healthy extracurricular activities.