The Zwift Racing League is quite possibly the largest community-based racing league in the world. Does it also have the most cheaters, cruisers, and sandbaggers?
WTRL’s Martin Carew is here to say he’s doing things on his end, but can he and is Zwift doing enough?
In episode 34 of the Virtual Velo Podcast, Chris and Si ask those questions and more!
Martin explains the built-in anti-cheating system he has in place, the challenge of finding the perfect balance between credibility and inclusivity, and the limitations he faces.
Plus, the guys introduce a new recurring feature they call “Cycling Shorts.”
A complete rundown of cycling esports headlines, insider information, investigative reporting, and industry trends. Another way that the Virtual Velo Network is your Central Source For Cycling Esports!
Chris also shares insight from his conversations with Eric Min, USAC’s Jim Miller, Matt Stephens, and other cycling dignitaries while covering the Star Track Benefit for Cycling Weekly.
We want to hear from you! Let’s get the conversation started. Comment below!
For an even deeper dive, check out the following articles cited in the episode.
- The “Met Gala of US Track Cycling” draws stars and dignitaries in support of the sport’s youth [Cycling Weekly, Nov. 13, 2023]
- MyWhoosh Enhances Route Selection and Introduces App Upgrades [Zommunique, Nov. 13, 2023]
- 2024 USA Cycling Esports National Qualifiers and Echelon Racing League Info Now Available [Zommunique, Nov. 12, 2023]
- IOC Sports Director Opens the Door Wider For Cycling Esports Medal Recognition [Zommunique, Nov. 11, 2023]
- Cycling Canada Returns to Zwift for 23/24 Esports Season, National Team Selection on MyWhoosh [Zommunique, Oct. 31, 2023]
- Wahoo and Zwift Bundles Now Across Full KICKR Range With New Pricing [Zommunique, Nov. 21, 2023]
To support the great work they do over at Star Track Cycling, visit. http://www.StarTrackCycling.org/benefit
Clip in and take a conversational ride with us as we lend a voice to the digital athlete and bridge the gap between athlete and avatar!
Ep. 34: WTRLs Martin Carew on Zwift Racing League
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What do you guys think about Martin’s comments and that balance between catching cheaters and being inclusive?
I was disappointed to hear that you feel only the upper levels of racing deserve fair racing. I think everyone deserves to have fair racing not just the upper levels as you’ve suggested in your comments to Martin.
Regardless of the level of play in any sport, the fundamental rules should apply to all not just the “Elite”.
All sports have a cost to them. If you want to play in a tournament there’s the cost for the proper “Legal” equipment to play with to ensure everyone is playing “Fairly”. Zwift racing should be no different.
If you don’t have the proper equipment in Zwift to ensure fair racing you shouldn’t be allowed to race in a league that talks about promoting fairness. If you want an all-inclusive race league then drop almost all of the rules and have a league for people who don’t care about at least an attempt at fair racing and make ZRL the league that sets a level playing field for everyone.
Most organized sports, even the beginner level, have certain requirements that must be met to participate. Why should Zwift racing be any different? I think fairness should come before inclusiveness.
100% agree, Harry! When the words left my mouth and then again when I was editing, it was clear that what I said didn’t come out the way I wanted it to. It was exclusionary, almost elitist. I apologize for minimizing the seriousness that riders of all levels place on competition. My point was that at the higher levels, there is more accountability between riders, and that adds stress. It could be addressed by more stringent built-in controls, rather than putting the burden on the community to self-police. It isn’t the right thing for the sport. However, you are correct. WE should be sharing coverage across all ability levels! The platform must level the playing field for everyone. I shouldn’t lose sight of that very significant fact. Thank you for listening and for taking the time to engage. It means a lot!