ESPN signs deal to broadcast drone racing

soxhop411

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Dec 4, 2009
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The Worldwide Leader In Drone Racing? Drone racing has been picking up plenty of popularity recently, with races in NFL stadiums and other events drawing significant attention. Now, ESPN is set to broadcast some drone-racing events, announcing a multi-year international deal with the International Drone Racing Association:

“Drone racing gives anyone the ability to fly like a superhero,” says Dr. Scot Refsland, Chairman of the IDRA. “Because everyone can experience the thrill of racing as if they were sitting in the drone cockpit, the sport is skyrocketing. To go from a first ever, US national drone race to partnering with ESPN for international distribution in eight months is truly a sign of great things ahead.”

The first IDRA event to be showcased by ESPN, the 2016 U.S. National Drone Racing Championships, will crown the coveted title of fastest drone pilot in the United States. The race will be held on Governors Island, New York City, August 5-7, offering jaw-dropping views of both lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. The U.S. National Drone Racing Championships will have an enjoyable summer festival atmosphere that racing fans appreciate—family entertainment, a ‘makers’ style drone racing area for kids, state-of-the-art technology, food, drink, and drone vendors.

“We look forward to providing drone racing fans a larger platform to access this exciting world,” said Matthew Volk, ESPN Director, Programming & Acquisitions. “Drone racing is an opportunity to reach and connect with a growing and passionate audience.”
http://awfulannouncing.com/2016/espn-to-broadcast-drone-racing-starting-with-u-s-championships-in-august.html

Press release
http://espnmediazone.com/us/press-releases/2016/04/idra-and-espn-announce-drone-racing-international-media-distribution-partnership/