Data

Global IT services and business solutions firm Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is celebrating the launch of the 2021 Virgin Money London Marathon app on the iOS App and Google Play stores, marking availability of the app for the first-ever combined in-person and virtual marathon.

Powered by TCS, the app promises to offer a unique experience for both participants and spectators, with more than 40,000 participants expected on the London course, and an additional 40,000 taking part virtually worldwide using the app.

Spectators at the event in London can use the app to track an unlimited number of participants on the interactive course map, receive live updates every five kilometres, and donate directly to participants’ Virgin Money Giving fundraising page. Those participating virtually can use the app to earn medals and digital certificates and share an official finish-line selfie.

In-person participants can name two supporters who will be able to see their live location, and virtual participants can try the app before starting their event, taking on a 5 km practice run.

Following this year’s event, TCS will take over title partnership of the marathon with a new six-year partnership running from 2022 to 2027.

“We are excited to get back to the in-person event because nothing comes close to the energy and exhilaration of tens of thousands of runners and spectators coming together as a community,” said Amit Kapur, head of TCS UK and Ireland. “That said, a combined approach will be the way forward for global marathons because it democratises access, enabling people from across the world to participate in iconic events like the London Marathon no matter what their location or circumstance. In the latest edition of the marathon app, we have tried to further enhance the experience for runners as well as spectators in both forms of participation.”

Hugh Brasher, event Director of London Marathon Events, added: “The app is a vital part of this year’s inaugural combined event experience. Our campaign this year is We Run Together and the app enables participants to connect whether they are in London or anywhere across the globe. We have had a great experience with TCS, which has provided the technology for the official app for the last five years, and we’re looking forward to their new role as title partner in 2022 and beyond. Having a technology company as the headline sponsor in the future means we’ll benefit from the latest technology and allows us to grow our digital reach. This means we can inspire millions more to become active, as well as raise more for charities.”

TCS has been the technology partner of the London Marathon since 2016.