BBC camera brings viewers closer to 'stalls' action

BBC Outside Broadcasts Special Cameras' team has developed a new 'Starting Stalls Camera' to enhance horse racing coverage.
It is the first time in the UK a camera has been mounted on the moving part of the gate to capture live pictures from the starting stalls. Following successful trials last week, and full approval from the Jockey Club and Racetech, the new camera will be used to cover horse racing at Goodwood for BBC Two, on Wednesday May 18 and Thursday May 19 2005.
David Lees, Special Cameras Supervisor with BBC Outside Broadcasts, worked with the team to develop the new camera for Sunset & Vine, the television production company who make the Goodwood programme for BBC Sport.
Lees said: “It is crucial that a camera position does not impact on the starting of a race and we have taken great care to ensure that the opening of the starting gates is never affected by our new camera.”
Steve Docherty, programme Director with Sunset + Vine, said: "We strive to provide new and exciting angles on the action and enhance the viewers’ experience of the race.
"BBC Outside Broadcasts can put cameras in places where you physically can't go! The new stall camera enables viewers to be right there with the horses and jockeys from the very start of the race and join in with the anticipation and excitement from the stalls."
(GB)