Virtual Spectator turns to squash

This week the Virtual Spectator Bermuda Masters 2005 is not only showcasing the world's top 30 squash players, but a remarkably enhanced visual experience is being "test driven", as new technology captures on-court play.

SquashTrac is the latest Virtual Spectator (VS) innovation, currently in beta-testing, using the software company's award-winning interactive technology and the combined resources of backers the Investors Guaranty Group.

Just as glass courts added a break-through dimension to visualising play action, SquashTrac enhances the court-side experience with added visual dimensions and player analytics.

Fans unable to enjoy the warm hospitality of Bermuda during the event and players after each match, will be able to follow all the on-court action by logging on to a website (see below).

The technology combines multi-camera video, electronic player tracking and thermographic imaging to provide multiple perspectives and performance analytics on a squash player's every move.

Through the VS squash viewer over the web, for television broadcast or through digital tablets at the event, the user is virtually in complete control of how the game is viewed. The interface gives the user access to choose from various high-definition (HD) camera angles, an infrared view and an array of statistics and data, captured live at the event and, of course, the 3D animations for which Virtual Spectator is well known.

Virtual Spectator came to many people's consciousness via its 3D interactive animations of America's Cup sailing, World Rally Motor Sports, golf, rugby, cricket, horse racing and in Bermuda, the premier match racing event, the King Edward VII Gold Cup.