Exotic Locations Key to Amazing Race Success  2/27/06

In a recent telephone press conference, host Phil Keoghan was asked - more than once - why he thought the Amazing Race Family Edition did poorly in contrast to the original, two person team event. Keoghan responded that viewers want "less faces, more places" on Race, and that "people missed the international element." As armchair travelers, viewers enjoy watching contestants cope with the culture shock that inevitably comes when they encounter foreign cultures. Keoghan noted the entertainment value in the "fish out of water element" created when contestants are compelled to perform required tasks while coping with unfamiliar customs and language barriers.

Keoghan asserted that he was proud that the show experimented with a new format (the family edition), and that the modified format actually brought a fresh group of viewers to the show. He anticipates that these folks, as well as veteran Race fans, will enjoy the new season even more. Amazing Race 9 will be fast paced, with more miles covered in a shorter time period than ever before. The eleven teams of two will travel more than 60,000 miles in 29 days. Keoghan promised "standout" locations, although he declined to confirm specifics. Contestants will be pushed beyond their comfort zones, perhaps more than ever before, which always creates drama on the show. Keoghan also guaranteed a good mix of contestants this season. As the show leaves the family edition behind, Race 9 promises to offer top notch entertainment for the entire family.