According to a recent Mediaweek article, the Versus network will be launching a high-definition channel in early next year. The Comcast-owned cable network will offer Comcast Golf Channel programming on the new channel from noon to 7:00 p.m. and Versus programming from 7:00 p.m. to noon. The channel will be initially be carried on all Comcast systems, with DIRECTV also signing on to carry the channel.
Mediaweek says that the new channel will offer all high-definition National Hockey League games to be carried by Versus. The programming airing on the new HD channel will also air simultaneously on either the Golf Channel or Versus. The Golf Channel programming will include live golf tournament coverage, including the PGA, while programming from Versus offered in HD will focus on other sports in addition to hockey, including boxing, professional bull riding, as well as hunting and fishing shows.
Rumor also has it that there are plans to air the Tour de France upconverted in high definition on the new channel, but negotiations are also taking place to try to get a pure high-definition feed of the event.
For more details, check out the Mediaweek article Versus to Offer High-Def Channel .
