Governing bodies help fund TV channel

[Astra]

Did you know that each of the affiliated societies (BD, BE and BSJA) at Stoneleigh have given many thousands of pounds to Horse & Country TV (www.horseandcountry.tv) to help it get a dedicated equestrian and country channel up and running on Sky in time for this spring?

I just heard about this and my inital thought was that it seemed a bit off as this money should have been ploughed back into the sport. But then I thought in some ways I suppose it is being put into the sport as it will mean there is more stuff on TV. And I guess that by investing they will get some say on what stuff is broadcast.

What do you guys think? Should they have put the money in? And will the channel be a winner?

 

[lorenababbit]

Personally i think they would have been better off using the money to raise the profile of what is seen to be an elitist minority occupation and get it back on mainstream TV. This is the only way advertising and sponsorship will be generated there fore get money for the various disciplines. The only people who will watch this channel are those who already watch any equestrian coverage.

 

[Dovorian]

You can see some OK 'ish short programmes on HCTV online, don;lt knw why they don't leave it at that anyway.

 

[Sal_E]

Too early to tell really. If it manages to raise the profile of the sport (which I assume is their intention) then it will be money well spent. If horsey amateurs become more involved through better education such as the demystification of affiliated competing, then that has to be a good investment.