Pragma partners with Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team to power maintenance excellence

“Running a professional cycling team is similar to managing a complex, fast-paced business,” says Doug Ryder, General Manager of the Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team. “What sets us apart is our obsession with performance and in actively doing our part to establish a sustainable future – for people and the environment.”

Ryder, a South African Olympian and former professional cyclist, previously led Team MTN-Qhubeka, the first African team to compete in the Tour de France. With his extensive experience in managing professional teams, Ryder understands the operational challenges that come with high-stakes racing across borders.

This partnership was formed when Scott Gibson, CEO of Pragma, identified a unique opportunity to simplify and optimise the team’s logistical operations and the maintenance of the team’s supporting assets. “Professional cycling demands precision, not just in performance but in everything supporting it,” explains Gibson. “By introducing On Key EAMS, we can provide the Q36.5 team with a robust system to manage their fleet and service assets, reducing complexity and maximising efficiency.”

Enhancing operations through digital transformation

During the grueling racing season, the Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team relies on a mobile operational hub to deliver everything they need—transport, nutrition, technical support, medical care, laundry services, and more. On Key will serve as a cornerstone of this operation, automating maintenance tasks and ensuring that vehicles and critical assets remain in prime condition.

“One of the fundamental principles of a successful business is the effective management of assets,” says Gibson. “On Key’s capabilities allow us to proactively schedule and manage maintenance, from vehicle inspections and fuel checks to ensuring clean and operational water systems. This not only enhances reliability but also minimises the environmental impact of the team’s operations.”

The team has started using On Key for essential checks, such as inspecting vehicles for damage, ensuring lights function correctly, and verifying that fuel tanks are ready for the next journey. These routine checks keep the fleet roadworthy and compliant, critical for seamless cross-border operations throughout Europe.

Future-ready maintenance for a winning team

Jean-Pierre van Dongen, Facilities and Fleet Manager for the team, highlights On Key’s transformative potential: “Having all vehicles and maintenance tasks in one centralised system streamlines our operations. Logging and tracking work orders is straightforward, and the system’s history feature ensures full visibility of past and ongoing maintenance. It’s a game-changer for us.”

Beyond fleet management, On Key will be used to maintain essential on-tour equipment, such as refrigerators, washing machines, and dryers. The system’s ability to collect data on asset performance and costs will provide valuable insights, enabling informed decisions on future replacements or upgrades.

Doug Ryder adds, “Our sights are firmly set on moving up the rankings and qualifying for the World Tour and all the major races including the Tour de France. As we prepare for a challenging European racing season, On Key will play a vital role in ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. We are excited about the possibility of extending its use to manage our bikes and their components, centralising all maintenance in one system.”

Driving success on and off the road

“At Pragma, our mission is to enable businesses to focus on what they do best by providing tools to manage their assets efficiently,” says Gibson. “By supporting the Q36.5 team, we aim to empower Doug and his crew to concentrate on racing and achieving their dreams. On Key is a key piece of the puzzle, designed to sustain their success now and into the future.”

As the Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team embarks on their European racing campaign, Pragma is honoured to be a part of their journey. Together, we aim to achieve greatness on the road and make a lasting impact through shared values of sustainability and innovation.