BBC Commissions Race Against the Tide

BBC Factual and BBC Scotland have commissioned the competitive format Race Against the Tide, to be hosted by comedian Iain Stirling.

The series will see eight talented teams compete against each other and Mother Nature to build sand sculptures on a Scottish beach before the tide comes back to the shore.

This commission marks the first adaptation of Blue Ant Studios’ Race Against the Tide, which was originally produced for CBC in Canada.

The BBC adaptation is being produced by Tern. Production is set to begin this May, and the series will eventually air on BBC Two, BBC Scotland and BBC iPlayer.

“Normally, when I’m asked to get beach-ready, it’s for a very different kind of show!” Stirling said. “But this one is unlike anything I’ve seen before, and filming in Scotland makes it even more special (and will make attending Hibs games much easier).”

“We’re delighted to be partnering with Tern and BBC Scotland to bring this feel-good competition to audiences right across the U.K.,” commented Catherine Catton, head of commissioning for factual entertainment and events at the BBC. “Whether you live near a beach or simply take the kids to the sand pit at the local park, the epic sand sculptures in this series are sure to inspire families everywhere to get out in nature and give it a go.”

Louise Thornton, head of multiplatform commissioning for BBC Scotland, said, “Against a background of a stunning Scottish seascape, this series will make a splash. Viewers will lap up the combination of artistry, jeopardy and fun‚ and Iain is the ideal host to steer the sand sculptors and audience through the show’s twists and turns.”

“We’re thrilled to be bringing Race Against the Tide to the U.K. as our first green reality craft show,” added Harry Bell, executive producer at Tern. “Combining all the elements of sand, sea, rain and wind is the perfect set up for an all Scotland production, so bring on the high tide! This show marks a huge sea change for Tern as we continue to build on our mantra of ‘Made in Scotland, Watched by the World.’”