AI is ubiquitous, and of course, we are referring to Athletics Illustrated. Well, not this time, actually, we are indeed referencing artificial intelligence.
Athletics Illustrated does not employ AI in telling stories, but AI has entered the marketing, data and event production world in putting on track races and marathons.
The New York City Marathon, happening on November 2, is providing athletes with opportunities to prepare for the big race day.
“…both runners and spectators alike can get prepared for the big weekend with the help of TCS NYC Marathon RunConcierge, an AI-powered guide developed by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) to help marathon attendees prepare for race weekend, navigate logistics, explore interactive course maps, and get answers to all their event questions,” reads a press release.
This AI-driven tool provides the following features to help racers get through the 42.195-kilometre or 26.2-mile journey across all five boroughs:
- Ask Anything: The guide can answer any questions about the marathon, from the number of rest stops to the best spectator viewing points, to what runners can do with their bags, and how long participants have to finish. Give it a try!
- Personalized Race Guidance: Runners can get tailored suggestions for gear, lodging, dining, and recovery based on their race location, weather conditions, and personal needs.
- Interactive Course Maps: Runners can explore the full route with 3D views and real-time overlays to spot aid stations, landmarks, and elevation changes before race day.
- Organizer-Verified Information: The tool provides access to the most accurate schedules, logistics, and race details, directly sourced from the event team.
The New York City Marathon is one of the seven Marathon Majors in its global series and competition, which includes Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, Tokyo and recently added Sydney marathons.
