OLYMPIC GOLD FOR CUBAN TV

If you like watching sports, Cuba was the place to be these past two weeks.

Residents in the Island could enjoy full TV coverage of the London 2012 Olympic Games, 24 hours a day, every day. And this was free of charge, no per pay view and… no commercials. One regular TV channel fully dedicated to the Olympic Games.

August in Cuba is a very warm month. A high percentage of the population takes its holidays in August to make them coincide with the school summer break. Normally, beaches and leisure places are packed. This year, however, many Cubans took a two week holiday in front of their TV’s in the company of an electric fan and a cold beer, or a mojito.

From the opening ceremony to the closing celebration Cubans were able to see everything. Despite the 5 hour time difference, all main competitions relevant for Cuban audiences were broadcasted live, even if Cuban athletes were not involved. Things that could not be presented live were taped and shown later when there were no events taking place.  There were also summaries and updates as well as takes of the city and sports facilities which allowed viewers to feel the Olympic environment and the atmosphere of London.

And in London this was done by a very small group of Cuban narrators and technicians. Only five men narrated the daily 24 hours and described a very wide range of sports from athletics to nautical, to basketball, volleyball, football, swimming, diving, gymnastics, archery, shooting, judo and boxing. They provided colorful descriptions and useful background data. One reporter and a cameraman did all the interviews and takes of the city. I don’t think this gargantuan task could have been undertaken without a real love for sports and a heartfelt desire to offer a gift to the Cuban people. Good job guys!! Thank you.