(Boulder, CO – November 18, 2020) - Zwift's top eRacing team, Saris + The Pro's Closet, today announces a new partnership with Polar, the world leader in heart rate and biometric monitoring technology. For decades, Polar has been universally recognized as the gold standard in heart rate measurement. By joining Saris + The Pro's Closet, Polar will drive the importance of data accuracy, stability, and sensitivity to the eSports cycling community.
"Having accurate HR and power data is important for everyone, but for eSports riders, it is critical," said Tom Fowler, President of Polar USA. "There is no better environment for Polar to showcase our industry-leading tech than via the crucible of pro eSports racing. And within that community, there is no team with more octane than Saris + The Pro's Closet. The best deserves the best. That's why we partnered."
Polar joins existing team sponsors Saris and The Pro's Closet in a move that further demonstrates the increased popularity and commercial viability of virtual racing. The once-niche sport became mainstream in 2020 as major players like ASO and UCI invested in first-of-their-kind competitions, including the first Virtual Tour de France in July and the inaugural UCI eSports World Championships to be held December 9th.
"We're proud to see the Saris + Pro's Closet virtual racing team grow with a new partner," said Matt Heitmann, Chief Marketing Officer at The Pro's Closet. "Our brand- agnostic approach to bike gear allows everyone from those new to indoor training to premier athletes the ability to customize an indoor setup and get the most from riding, both indoors and out. We're excited that the potential of eSports is recognized by leading global brands like Polar."
The Saris + The Pro's Closet team will field three of the U.S. National Team's riders to participate in the 2020 UCI eSports World Championship. The riders include Team co- founder and 2019 national champion Holden Comeau, national 24-hour time trial champion Christie Tracy, and Ryan Larson, STPC's leading all-rounder with more than 200 wins.
"We've watched the sport absolutely explode over this past year as people embraced not just the competition, but the accessibility and community," said Comeau, Saris + The Pro's Closet team co-founder. "For the world-class racing we do, our performance depends on having reliable and accurate data. With so much on the line, our team is glad to use Polar's world-class heart-rate sensors and technologies."
The Saris + The Pro's Closet team is currently focused on competing in the Premier Division of the Zwift Racing League, a weekly series of team-based Pro-Am races. On December 8 and 9, the three Saris + The Pro's Closet riders selected for the U.S. National Team will compete against the world's best at the UCI eSports World Championships, which will be broadcast live and offer the opportunity for everyday riders to take on the same courses as the pros.
About The Pro's Closet
The Pro's Closet Inc. (TPC) is the world's largest and most trusted brand for pre-owned bikes. We purchase new and pre-owned bikes and accessories from manufacturers, retailers, and individuals. Each bike undergoes a rigorous Certified Pre-Owned inspection and top-to-bottom service to ensure every bike is delivered in next-to-new condition. Our innovative Buyback Guarantee gives customers full transparency by offering guaranteed trade-in values for 18 months after purchase. With nearly 1,000 bikes to choose from on our website, we offer the world's largest and most diverse selection of high-quality road, mountain, gravel, cyclocross, triathlon, and e-bikes.
For information on The Pro's Closet, visit theproscloset.com
About Polar
For over 40 years, Polar has been a pioneer in wearable sports technology, helping athletes and coaches at all levels to improve their health, performance and overall wellbeing. Renowned for an unparalleled dedication to scientific accuracy, reliability and a superior user experience, Polar has cemented itself globally within the industry as the go-to partner for anyone looking to discover their true potential. Our award- winning product range includes pioneering sports wearables that work elegantly with Polar training apps and cloud services.
For more information, please visit polar.com.
