Japanese annual event, the Tour de Okinawa, has partnered with ROUVY to release three of its routes for a virtual cycling experience. To highlight the occasion, a one-month challenge has been announced for cyclists worldwide.
Taking in the Okinawa island routes along the Pacific coastline, the virtual cycling challenge also provides a chance to win original branded merchandise.
The Tour de Okinawa has been held since 1989 in 12 municipalities, centred in the northern part of Okinawa Prefecture also known as Yanbaru. It was initially started as an amateur race but turned professional in 1999.
It became part of the UCI Asia Tour in 2005. New categories of events were added to meet the needs of the growing number of participants every year; and now it is one of the largest cycle sports festivals in Japan. The Men’s Champion Race is positioned as an official race of the UCI contested by Japanese and international pro cyclists.
The Citizen’s Road Race runs the same course as the Men’s Champion Race, but is aimed at the general public with a 210km long stretch. And there is also a Challenge Race, for those who have less experience in competitions, with 140km, 100km and 50km categories.
Additionally, there are other, new formats that cater to different interests such as the Touring Around Okinawa Island Course, which rides on the main island of Okinawa in one night and two days. Other sub-events include Family Cycling and Cycling on Remote Islands.
www.tour-de-okinawa.jp/en
www.rouvy.com
