Fans given chance to race for jerseys at Women’s Tour in virtual reality challenge

Fans will be given the chance to race for jerseys at the OVO Energy Women’s Tour, which starts in Daventry, Northamptonshire on Wednesday and finishes in London next Sunday.

The challenge, hosted by race sponsor OVO Energy, will see spectators at the fan zone by the finish line of each stage able to put on a virtual reality headset, hop on a static bike and pedal up the climb to Middleton Top in Derbyshire, included in the route of this year’s third edition of the race.

The fastest woman, man and child at each stage will win an OVO Energy Women’s Tour leader’s jersey.

People taking part will also be doing their bit for the environment in their local community, with OVO Energy pledging to donate three trees for every person who takes part.

OVO Energy managing director Chris Houghton said: “The Women’s Tour is a flagship event on the UCI Women's WorldTour calendar, celebrating incredible female cycling talent and welcoming UK communities to share in the excitement of the day.

”As the leading independent energy supplier in the UK, we’re passionate about powering a sustainable future to benefit everyone by using smart technology.

“Through our title sponsorship of the OVO Energy Women’s Tour and Tour of Britain, we’re energising the spectator experience, encouraging fans to join the ride through innovative VR technology while also helping them make their communities greener.”

The Virtual Cycling Challenge has 360-degree video footage which speeds up the faster the rider pedals and is narrated by pro cyclist Jesse Walker who gives encouragement as well as tips.

Through the less energetic can also follow Walker herself through a VR headset as she tackles the climb.

She said: “The OVO Energy Women’s Tour is a momentous occasion for local people and I can’t wait to meet all the spectators and supporters that cheer the competitors on.

“The virtual reality experience will put fans through their paces so they get a taster of what it takes to compete in the Tours and what a professional cyclist may be up against.”

Adam Rostom, OVO Energy’s chief marketing officer, added: “We are always looking for creative ways to reach new and existing customers and demonstrate that we are a different kind of energy company - one that’s innovative and better for everyone.

“Tapping enthusiast passion around the power of cycling provides us with a new entry point into a conversation with consumers about energy, technology and sustainability directly in the communities where they live and play.”  

OVO Energy Women's Tour 2017

 Wed 7 June - Stage 1: Daventry to Kettering (148km)

 Thu 8 June - Stage 2: Stoke-on-Trent to Stoke-on-Trent

 Fri 9 June - Stage 3: Atherstone to Royal Leamington Spa (151km)

 Sat 10 June - Stage 4: Chesterfield to Chesterfield (133km)

 Sun 11 June - Stage 5: Central London (88.2km)