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Cycling.tv and British Cycling are pleased to announce today that they have entered into a joint venture to produce and broadcast the British Premier Calendar Series 2006. The 10 race series will be shown on the global broadband TV channel Cycling.tv and additionally on British Eurosport.
In 2005 Cycling.tv produced three of the Premier Calendar series, achieving large viewing figures on both broadcast platforms. This success has led to ongoing discussions resulting in this important agreement.
The aim of this venture is to:
• Produce and broadcast the Premier Calendar Series and the National Road Races
• Broadcast all events on the Cycling.tv channel globally and on British Eurosport.
• To increase the profile of the top class events in the UK and importantly the riders.
• To provide exposure for team sponsors
• To increase viewer numbers both on Television and at events.
• To increase the brand value of the series
• On a longer term basis, to reinvest shared profit as detailed to enhance the series.
What they said:
Simon Brydon, MD of Cycling.tv said;
“Cycling.tv has a clear mission to be the global TV station where cycling fans worldwide know they can watch the best cycling action live and on demand, to do this we have an extensive range of contracts to carry major international Pro Tour races with the best professional riders in the world, on a national level we want to bring the best of British racing and riders to a national and international audience. The British Premier Calendar series produces exceptional races with talented riders and teams. Our viewing figures from the 2005 races demonstrated to us that there is a real appetite for UK racing. We want to support British Cycling, the riders, race promoters and team managers to develop the calendar, attract sponsors and attract more fans to the roadside.”
Jonny Clay, Events and Competition Manager for British Cycling said;
“Cycling.tv is already making a big impact on television coverage of the cycle sport landscape and we are excited to be working with them as they develop their coverage of racing in this country. The British Cycling Premier Calendar showcases the sport of Road Racing over a challenging series of events in varied and picturesque parts of the UK. We believe that Cycling.tv & Eurosports coverage of the series will help strengthen event and team sponsorship, raise the profile of the riders and the events, and increase the interest and following of the series. We look forward to watching the series unfold in 2006.”
Dave Kerr, Director of British Eurosport said:
“Cycling in Britain is enjoying an exciting period at present, especially looking ahead to the Grand Depart in London next year. British Eurosport has been a supporter and broadcaster of the sport for many years and I have no doubt our many dedicated cycling viewers will enjoy these highly competitive events. It adds a new dimension to our excellent portfolio of cycling events which includes the Giro d’Italia, Vuelta and Tour de France.”
