Mike Clucas from FulGaz takes through some of the most common questions that have popped up ahead of the series. We suggest riders watch this ahead of the series.
UPDATE ON CUT OFF TIMES & RACE DISTANCE
In the interest of athlete well being & safety, the event organisers, VRAAM and FulGaz, have reduced the official race qualifying and official finishing distance to 3,248km.
Complete 3,248km June 28 by the following times:
- 0600am PDT/0900am EDT - USA
- 1400 - BST United Kingdom
- 1830 - IST - India
- 2300 AEST - Australia
The winner will be the competitor who has ridden the furthest distance by the end of the race at the above times. In the interest of athlete well being & safety, the event organisers, VRAAM and FulGaz, have reduced the official race qualifying and official finishing distance to 3,248km.
The stages will close at the following times:
- 0100am EDT - USA
- 2200 PDT Thursday 9 July - USA
- 0600 - BST United Kingdom
- 1830 - IST - India
- 1030 AEST - Australia
All race results will be provisional until verified by FulGaz and VRAAM.
How do I enter the VRAAM events?
Online entries for VRAAM, VRAW and the60 are all closed.
Do I need to have a FulGaz subscription?
While you can get started on a free trial to make sure everything is working OK and you have compatible equipment, you will need to have a valid FulGaz subscription for the entire event, either a monthly or annual subscription. Get one here: https://members.fulgaz.com
Important info for the60 competitors
All stages in the60 will be open for the full 12 days of the event, you can ride multiple rides in one day if you need to schedule a day off,
You MUST rider each stage completely, you can't leave halfway and come back. That's unfair on the other competitors because you are getting more rest.
It is absolutely critical that you ensure you are on the correct and very latest version of FulGaz prior to the event. We have just pushed through some new updates for almost all platforms and the older versions still either have bugs or not work properly with the leaderboards.
What happens before the race?
Over the next 24 hours, here's what going to happen.
- 10 am Tuesday Melbourne Time - test events end, leaderboards cleared
- 11 pm Tuesday Melbourne time - Events go live.
- At 11 pm Tuesday Melbourne time, quit the FulGaz App and restart it or go to Settings > Update Ride List.
I can't enter my name at the start of each stage in The60?
Previously on the60 you had to enter your name at the start of every stage. This isn't the case now. You don't need to enter your name at the start of each stage as it automatically pulls the data.
How VRAAM and VRAW will work
When the event opens, you will see a category of rides relevant for your event. FulGaz will make sure you can only ride the applicable stage so you don't accidentally "go off course". As you ride, FulGaz will be uploading how far you have travelled to it's server once every minute. Every metre you travel gets added to your total distance and moves you along the virtual map. You have finished the race when you have completed all the stages.
We're not covering the actual RAAM and RAW course, we're picking iconic and interesting rides from the USA, then adding up their distance to be the same as the "real" RAAM and RAW. We refer to each of these rides as "Stages" Some of these stages are still being filmed, so we can't announce the whole course yet. We will keep you updated as more rides arrive. Often the same ride will be ridden more than once during the event. For example, "Pacific Highway Cruise" could be Stage 4, 12, and 17.
There will be an online map with your own "dot" on it. As you ride, FulGaz will be uploading how far you have travelled to it's server once every minute. Every metre you travel gets added to your total distance and moves you along the virtual map.
How can I track my progress in the the60?
the60 takes on a more traditional "Stage Race" format, with a leaderboard that functions in the same way as a stage race like the Tour de France. The winner is the person who completes all the stages in the lowest overall time. The leaderboard will show results that can be broken down by Gender and Age Group
What are the VRAAM Test events and when are they going to be held?
We will be running test events open to all entrants of the full VRAAM, VRAW and the60 events. During these events, all the in-app functionality and leaderboard functionality will be exactly as it will appear in the real event, but the test event will just include some of the actual stages you will be competing in during the real event. These events are designed to get you familiar with how your event will work and allow us to test the race systems ahead of the actual races.
They will be open from 10:AM Monday the 1 June to 12PM AEST 15 June 2020,
How do I enter the test events?
If you've entered the main VRAAM, VRAW or the60 events, you will receive automatic access to the VRAAM test event relevant to you.
What is the best video resolution for me?
Normally we suggest the highest video quality you can use. For this event, things will run much more smoothly if you stick to 720P. 720P is roughly one eighth the size of 4K, so you can fit 8 times as many rides on your device, or stream easily.
If you are planning on having a go at the60, then you can be moderately fit and indeed use it as part of a fitness building program.
But if you are going for the VRAW and full VRAAM, then you need to be as fit as you have ever been! You will have to certify that there are no health-related reasons or problems which preclude your participation in this activity. It is not for the faint of heart!
While you do not have to have a smart trainer, the easiest, simplest and most reliable methodology to compete in any of the categories will be via a modern smart trainer. Those entering with a non-smart trainer using a speed sensor to calculate power may not be counted in the overall results if their power numbers are deemed to be reading too high by the race organisers.
We advise that no matter what system you run with, you train on it and test it extensively. If your first time using your setup is race day, then you are setting yourself up for issues.
We advise that a backup device is also advisable as well as a backup internet access method. The VRAAM endurance races (VRAAM and VRAW) rely on a steady internet connection to update your position every 60 seconds. In the event of a failure, you will only lose 60 seconds, but you might need to swap to your alternate device and possibly also internet connection device. We advise rehearsing and practising such a scenario. You would practice changing tyres for the RAAM, so practice the things that can go wrong for the VRAAM.
Ideal setup
My trainer keeps dropping out/ Windows10 Keeps crashing mid-race/Cannot connect trains or sensors.
These are all known issues with Windows that we have been working on and unable to completely resolve prior to the start of VRAAW.
We are working on that in the background long term however we strongly suggest using an apple TV or an iPad. This is the best hardware to use with the current version FulGaz App and is the best supported hardware.
An endurance event like this is best raced within the iOS or TVOS environment. Apple TV is the most reliable so we suggest either purchasing an appleTV or borrowing an iPad.
Downloading rides vs streaming
The best time to download your nest day/s and ‘sort’ your device out is after you finish your session for the day. It is permitted to have someone do this for you while you rest. Simply delete rides that have been done and load the new ones. Devices with near-unlimited storage (large tablets and laptops) could download nearly the entire race ahead of the event.
We will be monitoring every rider, every 60 seconds during every stage. Whenever your distance is uploaded, we also capture your power and other key metrics. We also know what trainer you're using. Beyond this, the organisers reserve the right to ask for more information from any entrant regarding their trainer and app setup as well as request more data about the entrant. We also monitor your power and other data in real-time.
Only the rides in the VRAAM folder will count towards your result. The next course you will do is highlighted and the ones you have completed will be unavailable but visible. You can download videos ahead of time, but you will only be able to ride the stages in the correct order.
I cannot see in my Ride History
For this event, your Ride History has no bearing on results. Instead I your progress if uploaded to the server several times per minute. In the event of a temporary outage in your internet connection, FulGaz will automatically calculate your distance when your connection returns as long as it is within the same stage.
When can I download rides
You can do this now! We’d suggest downloading the first few to get them prepped & ready.
Slope Scaling to simulate lower gearing on your smart trainer
This feature allows you to simulate lower gearing in FulGaz without affecting your speed.We encourage you to use this feature during the event so you always have enough gears throughout your event. How to adjust slope scaling.
Who do I contact for support?
Before you contact support, make sure you update to the latest version of FulGaz on your device, you can do this by checking updates on your device and making sure you have the most current version.
We will be checking seven days a week, however the answer to almost every question you have is within the knowledge base. You can lodge a ticket here.
Support hours & rules
VRAAM contestants will be given number one priority in our system however we only guarantee it during business hours in Melbourne Australia. Make sure you’re as specific as possible with your question or issue. If you have multiple problems include them all in the same ticket.
Should I stream or download?
You should test your setup and internet connection to see what works before for you however, we always suggest to download your rides to avoid any streaming issues. If you have sufficient room we suggest downloading these ahead of time. They are now available for download via the FulGaz App.
Can I swap between two bikes or trainers?
Yes! If you want to swap between bikes or trainers, it’s important to unpair your trainer before swapping to your other bike. If you have two distinct setups, then we suggest turning the second setup off when not needed to reduce interference- and confusion!
Is there a cut off time?
After 12 days the official race is over per the directive of the decision of the race organisers. FulGaz, however, will leave courses and dot watching available for 18 days from the start of the race so that way you can finish what you started.
In the interest of athlete well being & safety, the event organisers, VRAAM and FulGaz, have reduced the official race qualifying and official finishing distance to 3,248km.
The stages will close at the following times
0100am EDT - USA
2200 PDT Thursday 9 July - USA
0600 - BST United Kingdom
1830 - IST - India
1030 AEST - Australia
All race results will be provisional until verified by FulGaz and VRAAM.
Can you turn your computer or trainer off mid-ride?
Yes you can, the data updates at 30-second intervals but we suggest that you finish your active stage as that’s how FulGaz works by default.
Your time is synced to our server. It's Important to note when you resume your elevation will return to zero as FulGaz by default sees this as a new ride. We strongly suggest turning off your trainer and the device at the end of every day. This ensures that everything resets and keeps your devices happy.
Can I recon the course prior to racing it?
This is the purpose of the test event. Be sure to use the test event to test your technology & set up to iron out issues when the real things kick off!
I cannot see in my Ride History
For this event, your Ride History has no bearing on results. Instead I your progress if uploaded to the server several times per minute. In the event of a temporary outage in your internet connection, FulGaz will automatically calculate your distance when your connection returns as long as it is within the same stage.
Ride Management on apple TV
Watch out for this one! The apple TV doesn't have what is known as "persistent storage" This means it decides how much space to allocate to each app, not you.
It does this with the users best interest at heart but you wouldn't want to be getting towards the end of a ride and have the apple TV stop tell you'd run out of space. Find out more here.
Keep your devices happy
We suggest turning off your devices and trainer each night or when you have a break. This keeps everything happy and working smoothly. Just like you, they need to power off and have a nap sometimes.
Heat management for your devices
Every battery warms up as you charge them. If it’s permanently being charged the battery will keep warming up and getting hot. Particularly if you’re training in a warm environment make sure that your devices receive some of the breeze from your fan to stay cool as a lot of phones automatically turn off once they get too hot.
The ride is not working
If for some reason you cannot get your ride to start, don’t waste time and move to the next one. You can do the rides out or sequence however we suggest you don’t do this as it causes false leaderboards and make
Cheating
Everyone is on the same footing when it comes to settings in VRAAM on FulGaz. In the App you need to input your own weight. However your bike’s weight is fixed and your CDA (coefficient of drag times frontal surface area) is adjusted to reflect you on a state of the art aerodynamic road bike, in the tightest skin suit with deep dish aero wheels. You can fiddle with your slope scaling if you find your gearing is not enough to get you up those hills. No one can change any setting that impacts performance within this event.
Every minute of every event we receive performance data to update the race map, so you can’t modify your weight or setting once racing.
We have a number of data points which we capture along the way, we can see the difference between some ones virtual power vs their actual power.
Medical tips for racing VRAAM
The following advice is general in nature and we suggest you follow the advice of your trusted medical professional.
Medical approval from your GP
Have a chat with your GP let them know that you are planning to do an endurance race VRAAM, VRAW or 1hr a day for 12 days straight for those doing the60 on a stationary bike connected to a smart trainer. Ask your GP if your body and health is able to cope with this event.
Illness
Let’s face it VRAAM, VRAW and the60 came into place because of COVID19 and the need for isolation. The common cold or flu, a chest infection or any other medical issue may impede you before, during or after the event some of these things will put you at greater risk if you contract COVID19.
Follow medical advice and abide by your government's rulings for social distancing etc. and seek medical advice if you become unwell. Remember this goes for you and your support crew.
Hydration
As per any sporting event hydration is important. Remember to drink before you’re thirsty and stay hydrated. Remember once you are thirsty you are already falling behind in the hydration stakes.
Nutrition
What are you going to eat? What are you going to munch on during the ride? Are you thinking of GEL’s or energy bars? What is best for you? How much sodium are you going to lose in your sweat? Are you eating enough carbs? Be sure to plan your nutrition also, it shouldn’t be an afterthought.
Sprains, Strains, Aches and Pains
You're not being realistic if you think at least one of these are going to effect you at some stage or multiple stages throughout this event. Are you stretching properly? Are you warming up properly before each time on the bike or before trying to push hard for the upcoming climb. Do you have plans for a massage to see a physio during the event? Remember hydration and nutrition will help with some of this as well but it’s better to preempt these rather than wait until it’s too late.
Medical Emergency
Do you have someone supporting you that can provide first aid and get you appropriate medical aid if required. Remember you are human and things can and will go wrong at some stage in your life will it be during this event? Yes you are going to be on a trainer so the chance of gravel rash and broken bones is far less, let’s never say never. But you must keep in mind, sprains and strains.
Exhaustion can lead to silly injuries getting on and off the bike or in between rides. How is your body recovering after the ride? Is your heart rate recovering to be within its normal limitsfor you. How is your blood pressure? How is it tracking through the event? How are your blood sugar levels? How are your oxygen levels? Some food for thought of things you want to monitor.
Saddle Sores
Are your knicks comfy? Do you occasionally get saddle sores? What will you use on them if they appear? Do you have multiple sets of riding gear to allow you to change and stay fresh and reduce the chance of infection. Do you need to be applying chamois cream?
Mental Health
How are you coping? What are your plans to stay motivated? What if you start feeling low or depressed? What if you feel anxious? Once again something you need to consider during an event like this especially since you are going to have a lot of time on your bike. Is your support crew going to be able to assist you? How can you make sure your support crew takes care of their mental health also?
Important Note
These are just some of the things you need to consider, if you look at one of cycling's greatest events, the Tour de France some of the world's best cyclists have had to withdraw from the event due to injury or illness.
If you need to take a break, an extended break for a day or two or even withdraw from the event that’s OK. Remember you only have one life, you are better to withdraw and live to ride another day.
Access ride folder for VRAAM
Step 1
Step 2
Access ride folder for VRAW
Step 1
Step 2
Access ride folder for the60
Step 1 for the 60
Step 2 for the 60
You can ride them in any order. Have fun!
Comments
0 comments
Article is closed for comments.