The TCS New York City Marathon Presents 26 ‘Smile Markers’ Throughout New York City

New York, October 20, 2016— The TCS New York City Marathon is taking mile markers along or near the 26.2-mile course to the next level with the introduction of “Smile Markers,” 26 pin-shaped markers that can be found both throughout the city, and as a part of the race’s upgraded TCS New York City Marathon Mobile App, available for download on the App Store or Google Play store. Smile Markers allow runners and spectators to learn more about the race, the course, and the city that plays host to the largest marathon in the world.

“Smile Markers give special insight into the TCS New York City Marathon, celebrating the people, partners and locations that make it the most popular marathon in the world,” said Ronnie Tucker, vice president of marketing and digital at New York Road Runners. “Whether you are down the block or across the globe, our TCS New York City Marathon Mobile App will allow runners and fans everywhere to play along and explore New York City.”

Smile Markers are being placed throughout New York City on bus shelters, sidewalks, billboards and Citi Bike® stations, each featuring a unique digital experience including quizzes, videos, graphics, slideshows, and timelines that can be unlocked in the TCS New York City Marathon Mobile App. Runners, spectators, and friends of the TCS New York City Marathon from New York to New Zealand can unlock Smile Markers to access unique digital experiences, and engage with an interactive map featuring exclusive content.

Premier Partner of New York Road Runners and Title Sponsor of the TCS New York City Marathon Tata Consultancy Services, and NYRR and TCS New York City Marathon partners ASICS, and Hospital for Special Surgery will be presenting their own Smile Markers that will pop up around New York. Participants will be able to collect rewards as they unlock Smile Markers, including tickets to race week events and special discounts from PowerBar, Fitbit, Tavern on the Green, and Gatorade Endurance. Participants are encouraged to capture photos, videos, and Boomerangs at Smile Marker locations and share using #TCSNYCMarathon #SmileMarkers for a chance to win TCS New York City Marathon-branded swag, among other great prizes.

The Smile Marker experience can be enjoyed globally as 13 of the Smile markers are available for access via the TCS New York City Marathon Mobile App. The remaining 13 Smile Markers will prompt users to visit them in person to unlock the special content.

Along with Smile Markers, spectators and participants can now track more runners than ever before and during the race via the TCS New York City Marathon Mobile App Powered by Tata Consultancy Services. Live, on-map tracking includes up to 20 runners, in addition to the live pro-athlete leaderboard, with the ability to receive vibration alerts when family members, loved ones or favorite all-stars cross the iconic TCS New York City Marathon finish line in Central Park.