BBC Sport has announced a long-term television deal to broadcast exclusive live coverage of the world’s most prestigious overseas golf tournament – The Masters – from Augusta, Georgia.

The new three-year-deal, negotiated with the Augusta National Golf Club, guarantees the widest possible audience more live, prime-time coverage than ever before until 2004.

BBC Television has previously broadcast all the available live action within 12 hours of live transmissions. This year however, an additional two hours of live coverage across the final two days of play, increasing the maximum permitted coverage up to 14 hours.

BBC Television will take full advantage of the offering and for the first time, will show full live coverage of the last 18 holes on the final day’s play, with the additional 90 minutes of live coverage on the Sunday on offer. With an extra 30 minutes on Saturday and an extended preview programme, BBC Television will offer its most comprehensive ever coverage.

Barbara Slater, Head of General Sport said: ‘To be awarded an unprecedented three year deal is a major achievement for BBC SPORT. The BBC has covered The Masters since 1986 and we are delighted to be able to continue such a valued partnership. BBC SPORT is totally committed to The Masters and will continue working hard to build the profile the BBC coverage brings to this event.’

This is the second long-term golf deal that BBC SPORT has won in recent weeks. BBC Television recently secured an unprecedented five year deal to broadcast extended coverage of The Open Golf Championship from 2002 to 2006.

For further information please contact:

Sally Trim
BBC Sport Publicity
020 8225 9900