USA Network to Broadcast First HDTV Program

[Gregg Lengling]

Debuts HD Transmission with Live Coverage of the Masters Golf Tournament

 
 
  NEW YORK, Apr. 02, 2003 -- Is there a better place for USA Network to introduce cable viewers to high-definition television (HDTV) than the Masters? With the spectacularly manicured fairways and greens, the brilliant white bunkers and the ever-present azaleas, the answer is no.

That's why USA, for the first time ever in its history, will broadcast live coverage of the 2003 Masters in HDTV on Thursday and Friday, April 10-11 (4 PM ET/1 PM PT) to its cable audience. The entire Masters tournament will be televised in HDTV and consists of 42 integrated cameras that will show the standard telecast, as well as HDTV. USA will televise the Masters at 1,080i which creates a much sharper and smoother picture for viewers.
 "HDTV will introduce our viewers to a whole new dimension of televising the Masters on USA Network," says Doug Holloway, President Network Distribution. "This technology will enable viewers to feel as if they're sitting in the front row of the gallery."

There are three types of HDTV sets viewers can choose from when considering the new technology -- direct-view sets, which uses an enhanced cathode-ray tube; rear-projection screens, with an internal projector that displays the picture on an opaque screen; and plasma, the slick, alluring, ultra-thin set.

Live early-round of coverage of the Masters can be seen Thursday - Friday, April 10-11 (4 PM Live ET/1 PM PT) on USA Network. Bill Macatee will host USA's coverage from the Butler Cabin.

Joining Macatee on USA Network's Thursday and Friday coverage will be long-time USA announce partner Peter Kostis, Jim Nantz and Lanny Wadkins in the 18th Tower along with David Feherty, Peter Oosterhuis, Bobby Clampett, Verne Lundquist and Dick Enberg.


Source: USA Network