SportBusiness.com

NEW HANDHELD DEVICE FOR FANS

TWI Interactive (TWIi), the digital media and technology arm of IMG and Canada-based Kangaroo Capital, Inc. have joined forces to bring a unique handheld device to fans at live events around the world.

Kangaroo.TV has selectable video, audio and data feeds in a bid to transform fans’ experience at live events. Kangaroo claim the device has been well received by fans at Champ Car races throughout North America since its launch in April 2003.

In addition, NASCAR Digital Entertainment and Kangaroo announced at the end of August that Kangaroo.TV will be deployed at selected venues this Autumn.

“Our three-year services agreement with TWIi will help accelerate our current rollout strategy to offer fans, promoters and sponsors the benefits of this powerful new media at major series-type sports events such as motor sports, golf and tennis,” said Marc Arseneau, CEO of Kangaroo.

“Kangaroo.TV is easy to use and will add enjoyment and value at numerous events,” said Bill Squadron, head of North America for TWIi. “It will soon become a must-have for fans, and it is an ideal vehicle for sponsors and corporate hospitality.”

Using patent-pending proprietary technology, Kangaroo.TV features a four-inch video screen and a push-button interface. At motor sports races, fans receive the main television feed plus three other camera views - in-car, pit action and replays. They also receive team radio communication access, live timing and scoring data, as well as behind the scenes, event and series information.

TWIi’s design and production team will help Kangaroo configure Kangaroo.TV for a wide variety of sports and entertainment applications. It will also advise the company on its strategy for marketing, deployment and growth, and assist Kangaroo in developing partnerships with sports organisations, properties, events, venues, and teams.