As the first Asian Tour golf tournaments since the start of the pandemic teed off, Asian Tour Media (ATM) put remote production at the heart of its broadcast workflow.
Earlier this year, ATM developed and trialled a remote production technology solution at two LPGA events in Singapore and Thailand.
Developed with NEP Singapore, it successfully allowed crews to collaborate remotely from different locations and deliver broadcasts for global consumption with minimal staff on site.
ATM then took what it learnt from those trials and implemented during its recent coverage of both the Blue Canyon Phuket Championship and Laguna Phuket Championship.
According to ATM, the pandemic gave them the “time and opportunity to relook at golf production from the ground up and develop a new framework, focusing on technology as never before”.
It utilised existing underground fibre optic cable networks in place all around the world alongside compression technology, to create content quicker and for less money.
The Phuket tournaments used a hybrid of both public internet and secure private telco lines. The use of remote production enabled ATM to find more optimal and flexible ways of working, allowing crews to produce multiple events in the same day, reduce travel and freight costs, and minimise wear and tear on equipment. It also offered a more sustainable and environmentally friendly method of production as it significantly reduces travel, thereby limiting carbon footprint.
Peter White, senior head of production, Asian Tour Media, commented: “We are delighted to have been able to deliver the first two Asian Tour events back utilising this new technology. Born out of necessity during the pandemic, we are pleased to be able to capitalise on the innovations and technologies developed for the long-term benefit of the Asian Tour. As we navigate the ongoing restrictions and challenges of the pandemic, our abilities in delivering this remote network solution will be invaluable in ensuring a top-quality Asian Tour broadcast.”
