Hartford will be the home to a new cable-online golf lifestyle channel claiming to bring by late spring a hipper, more inclusive edge to what its creators say is a typically stodgy sport.
Back9Network’s office-studios are currently housed in leased space downtown at 30 Lewis St., said spokeswoman Megan Bondi.
Former UConn basketball and current Boston Celtics star Ray Allen has a seat on Back9’s board, alongside UConn Interim Athletic Director Paul Pendergast.
Back9’s original programming is aimed at a wide demographic, ranging from youths to die-hard golf enthusiasts.
Shows will include “Extreme Golf,” in which celebrities and athletes go head-to-head on golf holes five-miles long in the middle of the desert, or play holes on urban rooftops.
Also planned is a sitcom involving a young woman who drives a golf-course beer cart.
Back9Network’s other directors include: Hartford insurer Phoenix Cos. CEO Jim D. Wehr; and Greg Hopkins, CEO of golf sports goods maker Cleveland Golf/Srixon.
“A major appeal of golf is the lure of the golf lifestyle, something that has been largely untapped in the media industry until now,” said James L. Bosworth, CEO of Back9Network. “By providing content that highlights the fun, hip and sexy aspects of golf, we are creating a brand new destination that reaches a highly coveted audience through our dynamic mix of entertaining and unconventional programming.”
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