Using Breakthrough 360-degree Video Technology, Viewers Take Control Of The Action As Professional Surfers Conquer Big Waves In Tahiti

Santa Monica, Calif., March 12, 2008 /PRNewswire/ —Experiencing the thrill of surfing one of the most beautiful and dangerous waves in the world is now a step closer as Red Bull pioneers the use of breakthrough 360-degree video technology. Visitors to Red Bull's newly launched surfing web site, www.redbullsurfing.com, can control the video as they follow professional big wave surfers riding the dramatic waves of Tahiti's notorious Teahupoo surf break.

Never before has such a rare experience been captured so completely. The interactive video technology allows viewers to take control of the action. With a simple manipulation of the computer mouse, they can look to the left or right, up or down, in front or in back. Since the observer controls the camera angle, each viewing of the video can be a completely different and unique experience.

"We've captured a totally new perspective of riding inside the barrel - the most sacred place in surfing," said Josh Kendrick, athlete marketing manager for Red Bull. "By taking control of at the camera, viewers become participants in the action - not just observers."

The technology used to shoot the unique video footage comes from Immersive Media, an advanced digital video imaging company. Red Bull is one of the first companies ever to use the Immersive technology in an action sports application - a first-of-its-kind project requiring the concerted efforts of technical experts, graphic artists and world-renowned athletes.

To record the 360-degree video footage, Red Bull enlisted the help of professional big wave surfers Jamie O'Brien, Jamie Sterling, Raimana Van Bastolaer, and Ian Walsh. Over a five day period, the Red Bull team gathered on the shores of Tahiti, home of Teahupoo - one of surfing's most challenging and awe-inspiring waves, particularly known for its heavy barrels and shallow coral reef. The surfers strapped on twenty-five pounds of gear - including the special Immersive video camera and computer equipment - and towed into the biggest waves of the year using personal watercraft vehicles to capture their extraordinary experience.

"I think we've made a small bit of history with this project," said professional surfer Jamie O'Brien. "The video experience that we've captured is a first. The view that someone gets by controlling the footage is a perspective that even I've never had until now."

The Red Bull "Inside Tahiti" video experience takes center stage on www.redbullsurfing.com. Along with the videos, the site includes exclusive photographs, interviews, videos and blogs from the Red Bull surf team.