WORLD SAILING, a 26-minute programme series, will run from January of next year with an editorial focus on the build-up to the Rio 2016 Olympic Games as well as coverage, personality features, background stories and news from the sport.

The programme will be distributed by Sunset+Vine International, which has already contracted 30 broadcasters to air the show and is said to be on course to convert another 20 by early 2016.

Matthew Sheahan, the former racing and technical editor of Yachting World magazine, has been appointed as series editor.

"I am excited to be joining the world's leading sailing production company in a role that will allow me to utilise the knowledge, contacts and editorial skills that have been part of my career at Yachting World," said Sheahan, head of sailing performance at Sunset+Vine|APP in Oxford.

"The media landscape is changing rapidly and WORLD SAILING is a significant development in the sport, so I am particularly proud to be taking the helm of this international series."

The announcement follows confirmation earlier this year that Sunset+Vine|APP had been awarded a significant contract by the ISAF to provide live host broadcast coverage and international news at the 2015 Sailing World Cup regattas in Hyères and Weymouth & Portland.

Next year, the live output will include the World Cup events in Miami, Hyères and Weymouth & Portland.

"The launch of WORLD SAILING is a real positive step toward quenching the appetite for sailing fans," said ISAF vice-president, Gary Jobson. 

"Sailing can be engrossing - WORLD SAILING will have the action to engross.

"But, it can also sometimes be intimidating for the new viewer.

"There is a lot happening around the globe and a lot happening within a specific race.

"WORLD SAILING will bring information to them from an editor with a great track record.

"It will take the 'fear' out and put the fun back in to watching our amazing sport.

"WORLD SAILING will become the go-to show for everything sailing.

"It will also give sailing a 'face' as we get to meet and feature personalities to get to know the real people behind the scenes as well as bringing the news and results.

"There will really be something for everyone." 

Andrew Preece, managing director of Sunset+Vine|APP, added: "The launch of WORLD SAILING is a significant development for both ISAF and Sunset+Vine as we seek to provide an international platform for the world governing body on television and on digital channels and social media networks.

"As we move towards the Rio Olympics part of that commitment will be to providing a platform for Olympic classes coverage and personalities in the build-up. 

"I am also proud that we have managed to sign a journalist of the standing of Matthew Sheahan to join our team.

"With his 24 years of experience in a senior role at Yachting World magazine, Matt brings an unparalleled knowledge of the sport alongside a rigorous journalistic insight that will help make WORLD SAILING an international focal point for sailing television and digital content."



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