The World’s Longest One-Day Cycling Challenge Returns
Red Bull Timelaps 2020 returns as a virtual challenge
The world’s longest one-day road cycling challenge, Red Bull Timelaps, will live on as a virtual event in 2020. Taking place across Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th October, the 25 hour challenge will employ modern technology to overcome the challenges brought about by COVID-19 and open the event up to more riders than ever before.
Now in its fourth year, Red Bull Timelaps has become well established as the world’s longest one-day road bike challenge. Seeing hundreds of riders take full advantage of the clocks going back, the event pushes teams and solo riders to their physical and mental limits by racing for a whopping 25 hours.
Previously held on a closed circuit at Windsor Great Park, this year’s cycle event will take place as a Strava based distance challenge – opening up the number of participants that can take part, eradicating travel to and from an event location and connecting friends up and down the country. Whilst the latest Government guidelines have recently lifted the ban on select sportives and races, Red Bull Timelaps organisers believe that it’s not possible to deliver this unique event within the new guidance and instead will deliver a format that will allow more riders than ever before to ride on as the clocks go back.
Staying true to the original Red Bull Timelaps format, the new challenge pits teams of four against the clock to see how far they can ride in 25 hours, either indoors or outside. As in previous editions, only one rider is able to contribute at any time, requiring participants to demonstrate a mixture of strategic nous, endurance and determination.
Whilst the rest of the country is tucked up in bed asleep, at 2am Red Bull Timelaps riders will be treated to an added twist. Allowing participants to truly make the most of the extra hour when the clocks go back, riders’ distances will be doubled in an aptly named ‘Power Hour’.
Working in partnership with the social network for athletes, Strava, participants will be able to sign up to the challenge for free from 28 days before the event and must register themselves or their team via RedBull.com.
Activities from the virtual cycle challenge can then be uploaded upon completion from any GPS computer or indoor riding platform. A live leaderboard will be available at RedBull.co.uk/timelaps, allowing participants to check how they’re fairing against friends and fellow competitors.
A number of prizes will be on offer throughout the weekend. The coveted Timelaps Team Trophy will be awarded to 1st place teams in each competition category, along with a medal, Timelaps cycling jersey and 24-pack of Red Bull for each individual rider. Each participant of teams ranked 2nd & 3rd place will receive a medal, Timelaps cycling jersey and 24-pack of Red Bull. New to this year’s event, the participant who has the highest individual miles logged will be awarded a Red Bull fridge with one year supply of Red Bull, Timelaps cycling jersey and medal.
As in previous years, riders will be able to access a range of useful tips ahead of the challenge on RedBull.com. With expert advice on cycle nutrition, training, equipment such as the best turbo trainers and indoor bikes, mechanics and participants will be fully prepared for their toughest challenge yet.
Entries for Red Bull TimeLaps 2020 are now open. If you enjoy bike rides and are up for a virtual challenge then this is for you! Find out more information and secure your spot now by visiting redbull.com/timelaps
At all times during participation in the Red Bull Timelaps virtual challenge, participants are required to adhere to and follow the latest COVID 19 guidance as set out by the UK government. It is the sole responsibility of riders to ensure compliance with all local requirements in relation to physical distancing and outdoor activities to ensure safe participation for yourself and your team members.
Join the conversation @RedBullUK with the hashtag #RedBullTimelaps
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