Drug company Amgen is sponsoring a new big-budget bike race, the Tour of California, bravely taking place during the Olympics, Feb 19-26. Today’s press release plays up the use of Google’s mapping technologies to bring the race to viewers:

The nightly television broadcast [on ESPN2] will feature 3D satellite views of the stages using Google Earth. Those following the race on their personal computer will be able to watch live streaming Google Video and follow the race using Google Maps. Google Local for mobile will be available for spectators at the race who want to easily find the closest coffee shop…

Because it’s 2006, it’s fair to ask, “What, no live network links of the race in Google Earth?”