MSN.com Hosts Official New York City Marathon Web Site

NEW YORK, Oct. 25, 1999 — When more than 30,000 runners fill the streets of Manhattan for the 30th annual New York City Marathon on November 7, race enthusiasts worldwide will be able to track the results in real-time, thanks to an innovative “ChampionChip” and the marathon’s first official Web site.

MSN.com and the New York Road Runners Club (NYRRC) have joined to create the official NYC Marathon Web site, providing real-time race results along with a wealth of additional race information, training tips and interactive marathon-related activities for enthusiasts and participants.

The Web site, the first in the marathon’s history, will feature race results searchable by last name, time, bib number, country, state and gender. The “ChampionChip,” a small transponder worn on the runners’ shoelaces, will record results in real time as runners cross the finish line. The device will enable runners, fans and friends to know finish times just minutes after the race.

Finish times will be posted exclusively to the Web site as they become available and will remain listed until November 21. Times for elite runners also will be recorded at the 10k (6.2 miles), half marathon (13.1 miles) and 20-mile marks.

Runners can use the Web site to prepare for the big day with advanced technology such as the Splits Second Timer, which determines exactly how fast participants need to run in order to cross the finish line in a desired time.

Visitors can get expert advice on training for the marathon, chat with runners around the globe and obtain logistical information about the race. Friends, relatives and race enthusiasts can send encouraging “e-cards” to loved ones or other runners in the race, download marathon-related screensavers, and even enter a sweepstakes to win a visit to the Big Apple.

“We are excited about this relationship with MSN.com and the many benefits technology brings to people who follow the New York City Marathon,” said Scott Lange, executive vice president and chief marketing officer, New York Road Runners Club. “As the NYC Marathon continues to evolve into a global sporting event, it is ideal to pair with Microsoft, a global leader in the Internet space.”

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