VANCOUVER: Canada's TVNW Media Group has been appointed as the host broadcaster for the 2003 World Weightlifting Championships. The event takes place in Vancouver from 14-22 November. It is the group's third major production deal involving an Olympic sport.
An official release informs that TVNW also produces international television programming for the International Triathlon Union's World Cup series. The company's MD Martin Perry heads the production of the Fédération Internationale de Ski's World Cup skiing programming for UK broadcaster Channel 4.
The events general manager Clint Flood said, "TVNW will provide world-class coverage using local talent and equipment that will showcase not only the sport of weightlifting but also the city of Vancouver to audiences in 50 countries. TVNW was a logical choice for us in terms of location, experience and price. The event provides a wonderful opportunity to showcase Vancouver-based television production expertise, with the 2010 Winter Olympics coming to the city in 2010."
TVNW beat other high profile companies, including Canadian national broadcaster CBC, to the World Weightlifting Championships contract adds the release.
The World Weightlifting Championships are the final major Olympic qualifying event for Athens 2004, and will feature 650 athletes from 85 countries over nine days of competition. TVNW will produce live coverage from each of the main finals. TVNW's success in attracting high profile production contracts comes in part from its dual PAL/NTSC capacity, unique in North America, and its in-house post-production facilities, as well as low Canadian overheads and a competitive dollar. The company also offers a UK-based production affiliate.
Meanwhile TVNW is developing plans for a digital broadcast licence within Canada for a city sports channel.