South African horse racing meets at prestigious venues like Fairview racecourse and Kenilworth and Durbanville racecourses are now covered by an advanced IP-based 4K broadcast solution. Live production specialist EFX Productions has implemented this system to capture high-quality live feeds for international sports channels and affiliates.
Modern OB Workflow
The brief was to modernize the outdated broadcast systems at these venues, focusing on delivering clear and precise pictures over long distances. Brendan Marsay, executive head of technology at EFX Productions, explains that 26 URSA Broadcast cameras were chosen for their performance and versatility.
Positioned in towers around the racetracks, the cameras are equipped with various Canon lenses tailored to specific shots. The setup includes additional ultra-slow-motion and PTZ cameras for comprehensive coverage. Marsay highlights the low power requirements of the URSA Broadcast cameras, which can be powered by small solar rigs, allowing continuous operation without expensive power sources.
Network Infrastructure
A network of IT-grade fiber connects the camera feeds to production desks, where they are mixed using ATEM Talkback Converter 4K devices. The resulting content is uploaded to a cloud-based platform for access by broadcast partners globally.
Marsay emphasizes that EFX Productions brought a fresh perspective to horse racing coverage, aiming for high-quality and engaging television experiences. Central to this effort was the decision to use URSA Broadcast cameras for acquisition, ensuring top-tier on-course coverage that captivates international audiences.