In this episode, the Virtual Velo Podcast rolls into the biggest week on the cycling esports calendar. USA Cycling Esports National Champion Hayden “Farmwatts” Pucker returns to the show as he prepares to take on the world’s best at the UCI Cycling Esports World Championships live final in Abu Dhabi on November 15th.

Co-hosts Chris Schwenker and Emma Martin catch up with Hayden on his mindset heading into his second consecutive Worlds appearance, the rivalries taking shape, and what to expect from this year’s new course and format. Hayden talks about defending his National title on TrainingPeaks Virtual.

Chris also breaks down his top storylines and predictions as the sport’s brightest talents converge under the lights in the desert for esports cycling’s grandest stage.

Don’t miss out on the unique opportunity to delve even deeper into the intriguing topics discussed in this episode.

• Get to Know Why They Call This Elite Cyclist, Hayden “Farmwatts” Pucker [Zommunique, Jan. 2024]
• Listen to ep. 51 with Hayden here.
• Revamped format revealed for the 2025 Cycling Esports World Championships [Escape Collective, Aug. 2025]
• TrainingPeaks Virtual to Host USA Cycling Esports National Championships Through 2028 [USA Cycling]
• We need to talk openly about weight in cycling esports too [Escape Collective, Aug. 2025]
• USA Cycling Awards 20 Stars and Stripes Jerseys at the 2025 Cycling Esports National Championships [Zommunique, Feb. 2025]

Statements made by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the podcast, its hosts, or its partners. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions.