Making History: The World's First Drive-in Boxing Event

In late 2020, our aerial photography and videography team had the unique opportunity to document a groundbreaking event: the world's first drive-in boxing event. Commissioned by a temporary works company, our task was to capture the event's essence and excitement from the skies, showcasing an innovative approach to live sports during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Assignment

The event, organized by Dennis Hobson Promotions, took place at the FLY DSA Arena, specifically in the northeast car park. This location posed unique challenges, requiring us to obtain special authorization for drone filming. Using our DJI Phantom 4 Pro, we embarked on this project with a meticulous approach to ensure both safety and exceptional quality.

Technical Challenges and Solutions

Given the nature of the drive-in event, we needed to conduct thorough risk assessments, site assessments, and develop comprehensive flight protocols. Safety was paramount, not just for the attendees but also for our crew. To mitigate risks, we collaborated closely with the event staff, who assisted us with traffic management systems. This collaboration ensured smooth operations, allowing us to focus on capturing stunning aerial footage without interruptions.

Overcoming Site Layout Challenges

The layout of the FLY DSA Arena car park presented some minor challenges, particularly concerning traffic and public pathways. To address these, we coordinated with event staff to control traffic flow into the car park and manage public paths, preventing any interference with our operating area. This careful planning and coordination were crucial to the project's success.

Obtaining Authorization

Securing the necessary permissions for drone filming involved working closely with both the event organizers and local authorities. This collaboration was essential to navigate the regulatory landscape and implement robust safety procedures. The cooperation of local authorities was instrumental in granting us the authorization needed to operate in this unique environment.

The Event

The drive-in boxing event was a creative response to the constraints imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. To maintain social distancing, the event allowed spectators to watch from their cars, parked beneath a temporary scaffolding stage. The event, which was broadcast live on Eurosport TV, featured a lively atmosphere, with attendees honking their horns in place of traditional applause. This innovative setup not only ensured safety but also created a memorable experience for all involved.

Our Contribution

Our aerial photography and videography played a pivotal role in documenting the event from start to finish. The stunning aerial shots captured the scale and excitement of the event, providing a unique perspective that ground-level footage could not achieve. Our work was well-received, earning a feature in a magazine and positive feedback from both the client and the audience.