Lights – cameras – action!

Tim Kelly, Velux media

Posted: 9  Feb. 2010

For the first time in singlehanded offshore racing, the Velux 5 Oceans will provide a standardised package of cutting edge onboard cameras and communications management systems for the competing fleet. In partnership with Marine Camera Solutions, the worldwide leader in supplying ocean racing communications services and support.

Velux and Clipper Ventures have commissioned the design, production and installation of new onboard cameras and media desks to fit on each racing yacht to record all the action at sea during the nine months of The Ultimate Solo Challenge.

The experienced team at Marine Camera Solutions, led by Tony Reid and Rob Sleep, will supply a functional and powerful onboard media system for the first 12 entries ready to cross the start line in La Rochelle in October 2010.

Designed with power efficiency and solo sailors in mind, the system will allow footage to be captured and transmitted (web or broadcast quality) from the yacht but can also deliver a live video feed for broadcast quality video conferencing and web streaming.

Velux and Clipper Ventures are equally studying a supplementary investment package to provide photo cameras to every skipper, as well as furnishing each yacht with the latest technology for transmitting images back to race HQ and an airtime budget for each skipper to facilitate live broadcasts, videoconferences and the transmission of images during ocean sprints.

The event will work with Marine Camera Solutions throughout to provide support to skippers during ocean sprints and at stopovers, solving technical problems and making necessary repairs. They will also work with the race TV team to ensure the delivery of images for television programming and news, including media training on creating engaging content.

Summary of Skipper Support Packages for Skippers (first 12 across start line):
€500,000 Prize fund
€250,000 investment in accommodation (€3,500 per team per stopover)
€300,000 minimum investment in onboard cameras and communications management systems
- 2 x fixed video cameras (recording in 16:9 SD) – onboard positions to be agreed with skippers
- 1 x roaming video Handycam (recording in 16:9 SD)
- Wireless microphone and earpiece headset, plus ambient microphone
- Camera control unit on navigation table
- HDV Recorder unit and media system management processor
- Dedicated media laptop with Livewire M-Link Voyager software
€600,000 Value in Kind through in port services and race partners/suppliers

National Maritime Festival 2010

Australian Wooden Boat Festival 2011
11th - 14th February 2011

view all events