The Match Returns; NEP EN1 On Site with Ample Space for Socially Distanced Team
Story Highlights
Phil Mickelson, Tiger Woods, and The Match are back and this time with a couple of twists. First, it will be on TBS, TNT, HLN, and TruTV (as well streaming on Turner apps and Websites) for free and they will also be teamed up with NFL greats Peyton Manning and Tom Brady, giving the event more star power and more fund-raising power.
As is the theme in the recent events that have returned to the sports calendar health and safety is top of mind (as well as unprecedented access to players as all four, Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Peyton Manning and Tom Brady will all have open mics).
“Above all, the health and safety of everyone working this event has been our top priority,” says a Turner Sports spokesperson. “We’re working closely with the tournament organizers and the PGA TOUR, along with state and local government and public health officials, on all competition and production logistics to ensure the event follows safety and health protocols.”
That is one of the reasons NEP’s EN1 production unit is on site for the event.
“It’s larger than we need in order for a limited crew, but we can safely practice social distancing at all times,” says the spokesperson.
The production will feature 11 cameras and will make use of five mobile camera platforms that will be able to move around the Medalist Golf Course in Hobe Sound, FL.
“The platforms will leapfrog each of the positions at each hole,” says the spokesperson. “This allows us to be efficient and also requires fewer people as we do not need to bring in teams of people to build platforms.”
Four cameras will also be on the four golf carts that the players will ride, including two robotic cameras. Top Tracer will also be in the mix
The commentary team for The Match will include Host Brian Anderson, analysts Charles Barkley and Trevor Immelman as well as two on-course reporters: Amanda Balionis and professional golfer Justin Thomas. All of them will be on site and will also practice (and have been practicing during the run up to the event) social distancing.
