Fischer-Spassky match on WNET

I remember avidly watching the broadcast of the Fischer-Spassky match in 1972. I had often wished I could watch it again.

A few weeks ago, I emailed WNET to ask them if they still owned the rights to it and if it was available for purchase or download. Things don't look good. Perhaps if Mr McClintock (see below) receives more correspondence on this matter, they might reacquire the rights. Here is their reply:

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Thank you for writing regarding our programming.

Thirteen has received a good number of inquires about this program since
the death of Mr. Fischer earlier this year.

Unfortunately, the rights to the series have lapsed. The costs to
reacquire broadcast rights can often be prohibitive.

With respect to alternative sites where you might view the matches; I am
not aware of a web site or cable station that has access to the
material. Things could change at anytime so I would suggest that you
write us again in a few months and we can let you know if there has been
a change with regard to broadcast/video rights.


Sincerely,

Scott McClintock
Member and Viewer Services
Thirteen WNET New York
programming@thirten.org
(212) 560-2888


-----Original Message-----
From: Xxx [mailto:xxxxx]
Sent: Saturday, November 15, 2008 3:20 PM
To: Programming
Subject: 1972 Fischer-Spassky Chess Championship


Below is the result of your feedback form.  It was submitted by
Xxxx (Xxxx) on Saturday, November 15, 2008
at 15:19:37
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address: Xxxxxx

phone: Xxxxxx

comments: Hello,

I was wondering if your station still owns the rights to the television
broadcast of the Fischer-Spassky World Chess Championship in 1972? I
remember, as a young child, watching the coverage of the match. Is it
available for download or purchase anywhere?



Thank you for your time.



Tom

I would LOVE to view the LIVE broadcast of the WCC of 1972!

ADK

i wish there was more chess in general on tv or online to download. that would be great. sadly, i am not rich enough to purchase my own tv network - ChessTV!