Working and Now Running: My Journey to the Virtual TCS New York City Marathon

From October 17 through November 1, more than 24,000 runners from over 150 countries around the world will be running the 2020 Virtual TCS New York City Marathon. All of them have incredible stories of getting to the starting line in this challenging year. In today's post, Surya (Sury) Kant, Chairman North America, TCS, chronicles his journey.

You can still register to run the Virtual TCS New York City Marathon! Whether you're running or supporting this spectacular virtual event, check out our info hub for tips, special offers, and more.

For the last six years, I’ve heard the iconic cannon going off just south of the Verrazano Bridge as waves of excited runners start their marathon journeys through a downpour of confetti, and into the five-boroughs of New York City. I’ve had this privilege because TCS has been the title and technology sponsor of the TCS New York City Marathon each of those years. It’s one of my favorite parts of my job. So, while the entire city on those special Sundays is running, spectating, or celebrating, I’ve been working. Working to ensure race participants, fans, family, friends, and TCS employees and customers have an immersive experience at the world’s most technologically advanced race.

Well this year, I’ll still hear the cannon. (It’s an on-demand sound effect in the official Virtual TCS New York City Marathon App Powered by Tata Consultancy Services). However, I won’t be working. I’ll be running my first marathon and the journey will begin at the foot of my driveway.

How I Started Running

My passion for running began at work. TCS’ CEO at the time and now Chairman Tata Group, N. Chandrasekaran, took up running in a big way, running Marathons. When he would come to town, his love of running was so infectious, I’d join him and quickly shared his passion for the sport.

Sometimes I’d fantasize about running a marathon—thinking about the look of pride and accomplishment in the eyes of our employees, clients, and Team TCS Teachers at our post-race celebration in Tavern on the Green. However, my busy schedule and routine travel helped to keep my goals modest, completing 5K, 10K, and half marathon races.

Fast forward to the end of 2019 and planning was well underway for the TCS New York City Marathon’s 50th anniversary. This milestone made the vision of running my first marathon become clearer, but my work schedule still proved to be a roadblock, so I didn’t tell anyone. Not even my wife or two sons who are also dedicated runners.

It wasn’t until the night of the retirement party of Peter Ciaccia, former NYRR President of Events and Race Director of the TCS New York City Marathon, where the die was cast. Peter was on stage addressing his guests at the celebration and unbeknownst to me, he strongly encouraged me to run the 2020 TCS New York City Marathon. My fate was sealed with a handshake and hug.

Preparing for the Virtual TCS New York City Marathon

When I started training, I kept a consistent cadence of running 3-4 days a week and would always pack my gear on business trips. When the pandemic began and lockdowns were imposed, I used an elliptical to keep up with my training. Thankfully, I’ve been able to run outdoors for the past three months and log the miles prescribed by Coach Mel, who’s helping me prepare.

I usually have my best runs in the morning when there aren’t many people on the road, and everything is still tranquil. The Strava app on my Apple Watch helps me track the miles, while I listen to inspirational music and Spanish-language podcasts (as I am trying to learn the language). On longer runs, my nutrition is simple—salt tablets to prevent dehydration and maple syrup packets for energy.

The Path Ahead

I plan to run the marathon on Sunday, October 25 and while this year is different, it will still be the world’s most technologically advanced race. Technology is making it more inclusive than ever, allowing runners to experience the race without having to travel. We might not be crossing the finish line in Central Park, but technology will ensure runners and spectators alike will be able to celebrate the race and will be connected.

Best of luck and a virtual high five to everyone running this year’s race!