The Digital Swiss 5 pro-cycling race series, which ran on ROUVY and was organised by Cycling Unlimited AG / Tour de Suisse, has won the Digital Communication Award 2020 of Quadriga University of Applied Sciences.
‘The situation around the coronavirus pandemic this spring called for a new approach to cycle racing, for professional teams and the many fans around the world. A platform was required to deliver a professional sporting event, while at the same time complying with the epidemic regulations of all countries.
‘Based on a close and intensive collaboration – the Tour de Suisse, ROUVY, Velon and Swiss Television were able to implement the racing series ‘The Digital Swiss 5’ within a few weeks.’
During five virtual races, cycling pros were connected via their bike trainers to the ROUVY app. The victories of Stefan Küng in his home race around Frauenfeld and the duel with Michael Matthews was one highlight. Other high profile pro cyclist participants included Rohan Dennis and Nicolas Roche.
This virtual event benefited from wide media coverage. Public exposure was also made possible by a ‘novel and extensive TV production by SRF sport. The result: five races, five victories and five days of cycling racing at the highest level.’
“The Digital Swiss 5 was a venture with many unknowns for all partners involved,” says Joko Vogel, Co-CEO Cycling Unlimited AG.
“Under the motto ‘special circumstances require special measures’ we seized the opportunity to launch a new, innovative form of cycle racing and are proud of the successful result.”
Petr Samek, CEO at ROUVY, said “I am delighted about receiving the Digital Communication Award. The technical implementation was a huge challenge, but it was worth it; and we are happy about the recognition we have now received.”
Investment in the new format was rewarded at this year’s Digital Communication Awards 2020 (category COVID-19: Events & Online Broadcasts) presented by Quadriga University.
The Digital Swiss 5 was chosen as the winner by a jury consisting of ‘representatives of renowned international companies from a wide range of business sectors.’
“Winning this trophy fills us with pride and motivates us to continue to promote and develop cycling in the future through new ideas and innovations,” added Joko Voge at Cycling Unlimited AG.
www.cycling-unlimited.ch
www.rouvy.com
www.velon.cc
