Breaking New Ground at The Open

By Darren Mullis, Engineering Lead, spidercam

Over the years, I’ve helped deploy spidercam systems in stadiums and arenas around the world, from concerts to cricket to football. But the 153rd Open at Royal Portrush really stands out for me. This wasn’t just another project; it marked a breakthrough in one of the most tradition-steeped sports: golf.

A First for Golf and spidercam

spidercam already has a proven track record in football, rugby, cricket, and live entertainment. But golf? That remained a big question mark — until now!

For the first time in The Open history, a 3D cable camera system flew over the 18th green, delivering sweeping, cinematic views to millions of fans around the world. From emotional close-ups to smooth tracking across the crowd and course, spidercam brought a new visual perspective to one of the sport’s most iconic moments.

Golf demands precision, quiet, and respect for the player’s focus. Any new technology must be virtually invisible. That was the challenge we faced, and we met it.

Redefining Golf Broadcasts

What changed? Mostly, the appetite of viewers, producers, and broadcasters. Our production partner, EMG, had the vision and trust to push boundaries, looking to enhance storytelling with immersive, emotionally resonant coverage.

Together with EMG and Unusual Rigging, we engineered a setup that was both technically advanced and visually seamless. With no existing rigging infrastructure on the 18th green, Unusual Rigging developed a bespoke four-point support system for spidercam. It respected sightlines, avoided player distraction, and preserved the pristine aesthetics of the course.

“We broke new ground in one of the most traditional sports and proved that innovation and heritage can coexist.”

Darren Mullis – Engineering Lead, spidercam

Planning Without Setting Foot on Site

One of the most unique aspects of this deployment was that we never set foot on site during planning. Due to logistical constraints, we managed the entire design process remotely, using drone imagery, CAD drawings, and our proprietary spidercam simulation software. That allowed us to virtually map cable paths, flight zones, and potential obstructions with centimetre-level precision.

It wasn’t a workaround; it became a showcase of how we can deploy complex systems remotely with confidence and accuracy.

One example of the spidercam simulation software mapping out the 18th Hole at Portrush.

Smooth Execution, Zero Disruption

Installation brought its own challenges. Coastal winds at Portrush were a concern, especially during tower setup. Working alongside Unusual Rigging, we used live wind monitoring via anemometers wired to our operating desk to ensure safety throughout.

To avoid interfering with gameplay, we relied on our simulation tools to predefine “no-fly” and “safe park” zones. In real time, our team adjusted flight paths in coordination with the director, adapting to every moment of the game.

The Final Putt, from a New Perspective

The payoff? Aerial shots of chips landing with precision, follow-throughs on final putts, and that iconic closing moment, spidercam gliding silently above the 18th green as the crowd erupted.

“Watching the final putt drop with spidercam overhead, honestly, it gave me goosebumps.”

This wasn’t just a technical win. It was a creative leap forward. spidercam proved it could enhance, not interrupt, the unique rhythm of the game: A new lens for storytelling in golf, not just a novelty.

What’s next?

The success at The Open allows us to demonstrate what’s possible, especially across extreme sports including skiing and motorsport. There’s growing demand for elevated, immersive perspectives, delivered with the precision, safety, and reliability that spidercam is known for.

We’re ready for the next challenge!

Technology Snapshot

  • System: spidercam ELITE with newly engineered X Dolly
  • Remote Head: Newton S2
  • Camera: Sony P43 UHD
  • Software: Proprietary Spidercam Simulator for planning and navigation
  • Crew: 3-person rotating team – pilot, operator, and technician

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