Proximus Cycling eSeries, the new virtual cycling platform from Flanders Classics
From today on, cycling enthusiasts can discover the virtual world of the Proximus Cycling eSeries. This is a brand new, online and free cycling platform from Flanders Classics, in collaboration with Proximus. The first challenge on the program: the Paterberg challenge.
Due to the unforeseen circumstances of 2020, everyone has had to look for safe alternatives, and virtual developments have gained momentum. This is also the case with Flanders Classics. In April, the most renowned bike race of Flanders was replaced in a few weeks time by the "Tour of Flanders - Lockdown edition", the very first virtual cycling race for professionals, broadcast by Sporza and followed live worldwide.
Tomas Van Den SpiegelFlanders Classics CEOWe still look back with pride on that successful project. We not only saw an exciting competition on rollers, but also noticed a rejuvenation in the audience. This last fact also happens to be one of the biggest drivers behind the creation of the Proximus Cycling eSeries. In this way, we at Flanders Classics try to be the most innovative.
How does it work?
In order to participate in the Proximus Cycling eSeries, participants must first register on the brand new platform developed by eSports specialist Team Meta. Once the rollers or the smart trainer have been linked to the gaming software of RGT, the fun can begin. Participation is free, and it’s also not necessary to take out a subscription within the RGT environment.
Participants will regularly find challenges they can sign up for on the Proximus Cycling eSeries platform. In these challenges, they may, for example, have to set their best time on a certain segment. We start with the Paterberg, widely known as the last climb in the Tour of Flanders. Participants can set their target time during 10 time slots between December 19 and 27. Once the challenge is finished, a lot of participants are rewarded with great prizes.
Tomas Van Den SpiegelFlanders Classics CEOThe cycling environment reflects the reality. During the first challenge, it will really feel like the Paterberg. In this way, fans won’t have to miss our classic road races during the winter months, and enthusiasts worldwide have the opportunity to get acquainted with the roads where Flandriens provide a spectacle every year.
Title partner Proximus also didn’t hesitate to commit to this new project.
Proximus has always been a forerunner in the field of esports in Belgium, and, with this initiative, we are emphasizing that role even more. Thanks to this digital extension of our partnership with Flanders Classics, the Belgian cycling fan can climb the famous slopes we all know from our cycling classics at home, in a fantastic virtual setting, together with friends. Together with the Proximus Cycling Challenge, this Proximus Cycling eSeries allows our cycling fans to get together all year round, even in winter or in bad weather.