Tour of Langkawi on Eurosport

[carlislemike]

Agh! Tried to follow the Tour of Langkawi on Eurosport. In my opinion, it was dreadful presentation and commentary. Mid race, on day 2, we were treated to 10 minutes of vaguely choreographed, bmx style tricks on the finishing line before reverting to the race proper. Very little of the peloton/s shown and limited commentary on the teams or individual participants.

No real understanding of the terrain or the passing countryside but loads of comments about team jerseys and how some were almost identical eg Hong Kong Racing Club and a mainland China team colours. Cap it all, the commentator gave forth on the ideal commentators’ team jersey being so vivid and clear (Thai national team) then repeated it all again when they actually showed close ups of the Thai team a bit later in the race!

Okay, it’s not a major Tour to us in the West but if they’re going to show it, get a decent commentary team who know the race, the terrain and the challenges of the climate. Show the race, talk with the teams especially the non European teams and give credit to everyone concerned. Above all, cut out the jingoism in predicting a possible British participant, Max Poole, doing well this year. Let’s see the race, the terrain, etc., and cut out a lot of the filler. Malaysia is a big place but it’s no more challenging to film than France or Spain. The people love watching the race and global coverage should reflect all of these things.

I saw parts of the race live in 2018 and it was exciting for the spectators and the organisation was very good. There was interesting and knowledgeable banter in the crowds and luckily for us, some of the local spectators chatted to us in English and filled us in on what was happening and who was doing; or expected, to do well! There were magic moments of sprint finishes and lighter moments in Tanah Rata., where the Fire Department turned their hose onto sprinkler mode to cool down the peloton as they finished.

What I am asking is Eurosport 1 to actually put some effort into the race coverage and not just produce rolling wallpaper to fill their schedule!

[maanderx]

I wish the footage had some form image-stability. I find it too shaky for my eyes. Last year was
even worse. I'll give the remaining stages a miss.

[carlislemike]

I agree about quality. Commentator seems to be a Jess Cox. Even on Stage he’s still repeating regardless the stuff about teams and individuals he’s already stated earlier. Yesterday’s gem was talking about unrest in EF Education. The guy goes on about several riders seeking contracts elsewhere but then goes on to say he’s got no evidence not even hearsay. Hasn’t a clue about the physical geography of the Malaysian Peninsula not knowing his location directions. “ I do my best to be impartial but….” as he craps on about several riders! I’ll continue watching and just hope Eurosport sort it out next year. Mind you, no one from them has responded to my complaints to them.

[Paulatic]

I’ve not been watching it but ..Ah Jez Cox, say no more. I very often switch to ambient sound if he is commentating. Man’s an idiot