Versus, Golf to Launch Hybrid HD Channel

Comcast will launch in January a hybrid HD channel for its Versus and The Golf Channel cable sports networks.

The HD channel will offer simulcasts of Golf from noon-7 p.m. and of Versus from 7 p.m.-midnight, according to Comcast officials. The HD channel will feature National Hockey League games and pro boxing from Versus and PGA golf coverage from Golf.

DirecTV and Comcast have already signed on to distribute the service, which will be offer free-of-charge to operators carrying both basic channels.

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.