This is from Yachting Australia,



Sailing is our second most successful Olympic sport behind Swimming and we still get very little coverage. We also have perhaps the greatest cat sailor the world has seen (and his Australian) retiring after this regatta and few know about it.



When we do get coverage it is only brief and un schedualed. I have herd from some guys on the net from NZ and the US and they are getting excellent TV coverage.



I have posted this on various sailing forums and encouraged people to phone or fax in.



OK guys, lets get on those phones / fax and let channel 7 know we are disappointed.



Regards

Stephen Medwell

AITA President













Sailing TV Coverage on Channel Seven

There has been a number of inquiries as to when sailing will be televised on Channel Seven. In the lead up to the Games Yachting Australia investigated this issue with the Olympic Games TV rights holders. At the time of conversation Channel Seven had not handed SBS (complimentary rights holders) any coverage of sailing and we were informed that TV NZ were contracted to film the Olympic Sailing Regatta.

Although we anticipate sailing coverage on the medal days (day 8,9,12,13,15) there has been no confirmation of this or any other specific coverage throughout the Olympic Games. Prior to the start of competition the Channel Seven online TV guide featured sailing on the days previously mentioned. This however no longer appears on their website.

The Olympic TV coverage is very much dependent on the overall performance of the Australian Team in each sport. The turn of events may result in further modification to programming.

We share the frustration of the sailing community and will continue to keep you informed on this issue.









Give Channel Seven a Call

It has been confirmed by Channel Seven in Athens that they have not appointed a commentator for the Olympic Sailing Regatta. We feel the lack of coverage is disappointing for our athletes and sport! As stated in yesterday’s report Yachting Australia took the appropriate measures pre-Games to assist and encourage Channel Seven to dedicate broadcast time to sailing.

If you are frustrated by the lack of coverage by all means please give Channel Seven a call. Perhaps someone can offer Channel Seven their commentary services!

Phone numbers:

Executive Producer for the Olympics is based in Melbourne Ph 03 9697 7777/Fax 03 9697 7898

Channel Seven Sydney Ph 02 8777 7777/Fax 02 9877 7881

Channel Seven email contacts