Ryder Cup in Sky 3D launch

July 29, 2010   ·   0 Comments

Sky have announced that they are to launch their 3D channel on Friday, October 1 which will be available to those with a Sky +HD package and a 3D enabled television.

The station, the first in Europe, will offer a selection of 3D movies and a range of top flight sports including coverage of the Ryder Cup weekend from Celtic Manor between October 1 -3.  Premier League matches will also be broadcast in 3D from the launch date.

Earlier this year, Sky launched a 3D channel to pub and club customers, primarily for sports such as soccer, cricket and darts. Over 1,500 pubs and clubs now have the service.

The Ryder Cup will form the cornerstone of Sky 3D’s launch weekend’s schedule, with key holes from Twenty Ten Course at Celtic Manor broadcast in 3D, providing a unique and never-before-seen perspective of golf’s biggest team event.

Richard Hills, the Ryder Cup director, said: “Following the success of Sky’s High Definition coverage we have followed the evolution of Sky’s 3D broadcasts with keen interest. We have been very impressed with Sky’s efforts to further enhance its coverage and are delighted that the Ryder Cup will be a part of TV history with the launch of Europe’s first 3DTV channel.”

Speaking about the announcement, Sky golf commentator Ewen Murray said: “Watching golf in 3D gives you the sense that you’re standing right beside the golfer as he takes his shot. 3D highlights every change of elevation on the golf course making it possible for the viewer to get an accurate read of each slope on the fairways and greens.”

Jeremy Darroch, Sky’s chief executive, said: “As with High Definition, 3D is set to transform the way TV is enjoyed in homes nationwide. Following hot on the heels of the success of 3D cinema, Sky customers will now be the first anywhere in Europe to experience 3D TV from the comfort of their living rooms. They can look forward to a fantastic mix of live sport, blockbuster movies, and innovative entertainment and arts shows.”

Riddhi Patel, director and principal analyst for TV systems at iSuppli said of the 3D revolution : “Despite aggressive promotions from the industry and intense consumer interest generated by the blockbuster Avatar and other titles, the 3D TV market in 2010 will be limited to a small pool of enthusiastic early adopters”.

Tags: Golf, Ryder Cup, Sky 3D