The Amazing Race is a television series that redefines the documented reality competition that was known before its existence.
Typically between 11 or 12 teams compete in a race around the world. Each team is usually comprised of closely-knitted buddies, real life partners, associates, etc.
The concept for Amazing Race began as a betting deal between show producers Elise Doganieri and Bertram van Munster while both were attending a trade convention.
The latter challenged Doganieri to come up with an idea for a television show in less than five minutes. As a race around the world was suggested, the two refined that concept and pitched it to CBS. So then, the race began.
Casting for the race is done through submission of applications via postal mail and by which CBS and World Race Productions will screen the qualifiers. Once teams are selected, each cast must apply visas from the list of different countries provided. The routes of destination for the race circumnavigate the globe, starting from one point to another.
The production crew plans out locations from different areas in conjunction with the local representatives or authorities. For safety measures, they also consult federal agents and discuss political matters within the area. Before the race starts, teams must prepare all their hygienic items and clothing that they will need for the race. Electronics such as cellular phones, laptops, and GPS devices are prohibited by the production heads. Briefing of rules and regulations are likewise done a few days before stepping on the starting line. Contestants are all compensated for the time missed from their respective jobs. The amount of compensation remains undisclosed and confidential though. The average length of a series lasts 25 to 30 days.
During the race, each team is accompanied with a tandem of audio and video crew who follows the team for documentation. To avoid favoritism that may possibly develop, the crew shift teams at each pit stop. Other crew including the producers typically travels to the different locations ahead of the participating contestants. Eliminated teams are brought to “Sequesterville” where they have to wait until the race ends. Most of the cost of the show is subsidized by different sponsors. For instance, travel agencies will provide plane tickets, or other companies have their products visible on a task or the show per se.
The Amazing Race is also racing for awards and positive viewers’ feedback. In fact, the production staff has already won numerous recognitions from different award giving bodies. The show has likewise established a solid fan base over the years. It is just so fascinating to see each team navigates their own way to the finish line, in a real time drama. In addition to that, the show also serves as a window for the viewers to take a glimpse outside their used-to environment. Unlike other reality series that one has to be casted out by a co-player, Amazing Race allows each participant to boost their best and merely rely on their own. Indeed, a race is a race!
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