Zwift has announced the details for Zwift Academy 2017, and pre-registration is now open. Last year, Zwift Academy broke new ground as the world’s first virtual global talent ID program, and as a result we now see Zwifter Leah Thorvilson racing on the women’s world tour circuit for Canyon//SRAM Racing! Who will be next?
The requirements to join Zwift Academy are:
- Female
- Age 18 and above
- Not a current or former professional cyclist
Many women join Zwift Academy just for the training benefits, challenging workouts, and comradery. Three finalists, though, will be selected to join CANYON//SRAM Racing at their pre-season camp in Majorca, Spain, where the CANYON//SRAM team and their management will select the top rider to join their team.
To get started simply visit academy.zwift.com and click to pre-register.
Qualifying: September 1 through Oct 30
Zwift Academy’s Qualification Stage lasts 6 weeks. During that time participants will be challenged to complete a Zwift training program consisting of structured workouts, group rides and races. Everyone who completes the program will graduate and be in contention for a semi-finalist spot. All graduates receive an exclusive in-game jersey and real world goodies!
Semi-Finals: November 1-22
Ten top performers will be selected to advance to the Semi-Finals. These riders will receive Wahoo trainers and other gear to power them through the next round, which lasts 3 weeks. During this time, competitors will be challenged with a more difficult program of workouts, outdoor rides and races in Zwift.
Finals: December 10-20
Three finalists will be selected to join CANYON//SRAM Racing at their pre-season camp in Majorca, Spain. After a tough week of training and spending quality time with the team, the CANYON//SRAM team and their management will select 1 rider to be crowned 2017 Zwift Academy Champion and the newest pro cyclist on CANYON//SRAM Racing.
Here are some stats from the 2016 Zwift Academy:
