“Working in cooperation with the Al-Kass sports network, we have total control over the workflow, from image capture to the OB vans, as well as graphics and statistics,” said Pierre Obadia, Director of TV Production. “Plus the cameras are nearer the action than ever before at an AIBA event. This year we manage everything in-house, but with Olympic-standard production".
The production plan includes 16 Grass Valley LDX series cameras - 4 Ultra Slo-Mo and 6 Super Slo-Mo - and the latest generation EVS slow-motion server. The Swiss Timing CIS system for the commentary team is similar to that used by HBS at the Olympic Games. BoxNation’s Alex Steedman and former Commonwealth gold medalist-turned commentator David Price have provided their unique insights throught the competition.
“We have deals with broadcasters in 112 countries around the world,, including the BBC,” said Obadia. "We also have a live YouTube and DailyMotion feed to ensure the best possible coverage, which of course we embed on our own website aiba.org.”
The production team has been working closely with AIBA officials to get as close to the action as possible, and additional microphones placed around the ring allow the sound engineers to control the audio according to what is happening inside it.
“We are focusing on the reaction around the ring, bringing in the crowd as well as putting RF microphones on some coaches. The whole idea is to engage boxing fans that are watching around the world,” explained Obadia.