Canadian speed skater Ted-Jan Bloemen has become the first Olympic athlete to be paid in cryptocurrency, following a deal with two new technology companies, CNN reported.
Double world record holder Canadian speed skater Ted-Jan Bloemen has signed a one-year sponsorship deal with the cryptocurrency social network ONG social as part of a bigger deal that involves virtual reality developer CEEK VR.
I’m very excited to be the first ever #Crypto Sponsored Athlete. Thanks @CEEK #VirtualReality and @Ong_Social for being at the forefront of technology and this great achievement. Looking forward to a great relationship and the exciting times ahead. pic.twitter.com/mCHbNzkKW8
— Ted-Jan Bloemen (@TedJan) January 31, 2018
Bloemen plans to share his Olympic journey on the ONG Social network and star in a 360° virtual reality experience on CEEK VR. In return, he will earn cryptocurrency rewards.
"Speed skating success is all about progression - building and building to peak at the right time," said Bloemen in a joint statement with CEEK VR and ONG Social last month to announce the deal.
CEEK VR CEO Mary Spio said "Bloemen's support for cutting-edge technologies is reflective of his proclivity for pushing the boundaries.”
"We believe Virtual Reality isn't just great for our audience (Ceekers) but will ultimately be used for training and maximizing player performance and potential," Spio said.
Ted-Jan Bloemen is an elite Dutch-born speed skater competing for Canada. Winning four medals during the last World Championships, Ted-Jan hopes to continue to build on his success at this year's Olympics.