INDY 500: 'RPM2Night' using IMS Productions Studios for Live Segments

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

May 3, 2001

INDIANAPOLIS - ESPN2, home of the popular motorsports show "RPM2Night," has started to use IMS Productions, the production company owned and operated by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corporation, for live segments used during the show.

Using VYVX Broadband Media Services, a fiber network recently installed at IMS Productions, it is anticipated that at least three live reports per week will air on "RPM2Night" from the studios of IMS Productions with ABC/ESPN broadcaster Bob Jenkins, ESPN reporter Marlo Klain and commentator Robin Miller, who are all based in Indianapolis.

This marks the first time that live reports on the Indy Racing Northern Light Series, Formula One and CART for "RPM2Night" have originated from Indianapolis on a regular basis.

"Indianapolis is the 'Racing Capital of the World,' and it will be helpful to all of open-wheel racing and 'RPM2Night' to originate regular reports from our city," said Fred J. Nation, vice president, corporate communications and public relations at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Rather than booking satellite time, the VYVX fiber network allows IMS Productions to form a direct link between Indianapolis and Charlotte, N.C., home of "RPM2Night's" weekday studios. This fiber-optic connection, which is available to all IMS Productions clients, allows a link to be established in about 10 to 15 minutes.

"The arrangement between IMS Productions and 'RPM2Night' enhances our already strong relationship with ABC and ESPN," said Buddy McAtee, assistant vice president, broadcast communications & business development. "This also increases exposure for the Indy Racing Northern Light Series."

The Indy Racing League is in the second year of a five-year contact with ABC/ESPN to cover the Indy Racing Northern Light Series, and ABC has broadcast the Indianapolis 500 since 1965.

"Any time we can get access to the Indy Racing League and its drivers, it enhances our coverage," said Barry Sacks, senior coordinating producer for "RPM2Night." "Having access to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is great for a daily motorsports show, and any time we can expose the masses to open-wheel racing and expose them to the (Northern Light Series standout) Sarah Fishers of the world, it's great for everyone involved."

Text provided by Paul Kelly

Editors Note: To view hundreds of hot photos and racing art, please visit The Racing Image Galleries and The Visions of Speed Art Gallery

.