San Francisco, California, USA and Bangalore, India - April 18, 2012
Wipro Technologies, the Global Information Technology, Consulting and Outsourcing Business of Wipro Limited (NYSE: WIT) announced that its partnership with the iconic community event, The San Francisco Marathon® (TSFM) has reached the next level, with Wipro becoming the marathon's title sponsor for 2012. The 35th annual Wipro San Francisco Marathon will take place on July 29, 2012 in San Francisco, California.
The first marathon held in San Francisco was run in 1977 and has since evolved into one of the most celebrated and challenging urban road races in the United States, with over 2,000 of the 25,000 participants traveling from around the world, to be part of the event. It is also a fundraising event which has generated about $11 million for charitable causes since 2002.
In 2011, Wipro began its partnership with TSFM as a 'Presenting Sponsor' of the race. The San Francisco Marathon has been known as the "tech marathon," offering cutting edge technology resources including runner and spectator mapping and tracking to participants, as well as virtual couponing and high tech apparel.
In addition to being the title sponsor of the 2012 Marathon, Wipro will provide consulting and technology recommendations to TSFM to enhance user and participant experience. The recommendations are based on research Wipro did with local running communities and athletes, to better understand their needs. The services include enhancing the Marathon's existing web pages with video based content from local experts. The videos will cover inspirational local stories of determination and courage, tips for optimal performance, nutrition, running and event-specific tutorials.
In May 2012, Wipro will launch its first corporate iPhone app which will include a "Sport" feature. The app will include details on all Wipro sponsored Marathons, including The Wipro San Francisco Marathon and can be used by runners train for the marathon by using the in-built digital pedometer.
Rahul Kadavakolu, Head - Global Field Marketing & Branding at Wipro Technologies, said, "As a global leader in information technology with strong ties to the Bay Area community, Wipro is proud to sponsor The Wipro San Francisco Marathon – a landmark event that showcases the inspiring stories of dedicated athletes from around the world. Sport has always had the ability to transcend language and cultural barriers to inspire a universal connection. Wipro recognizes the tremendous opportunity in harnessing the power of sports – It's a great platform to engage your customers and employees, in a more direct way and give back to the community. He added, "The synergies of our association with the marathon are further enhanced by a shared passion to leverage technology to enhance the overall experience."
To further promote participation in the race, Wipro will present the inaugural Wipro Team Challenge at this year's marathon. The Wipro Team Challenge is an exciting new addition to TSFM that not only tests endurance, but also celebrates team spirit. More information on the challenge can be found at www.thesfmarathon.com/the-race/.
The Wipro San Francisco Marathon® is rated one of the top marathons in the US, is the largest marathon in Northern California, the 13th largest marathon in the US and is a qualifying race for the Boston Marathon. In 2011, TSFM runners raised more than $250,000 for charitable organizations such as such as The Nature Conservancy, The National MS Society, Train for Autism and The 'Shanti Project'.
Pamela Madigan, Race Director of the Wipro San Francisco, added, "TSFM and Wipro's unique partnership showcases the spirit of camaraderie that the Marathon embodies. Through this alliance, we can achieve the technology and charitable goals that we've set for ourselves.
About The Wipro San Francisco Marathon:
Projected to draw 26,000 runners this year, the 35th running of The Wipro San Francisco Marathon will take place on Sunday, July 29, 2012. Known for its beautiful scenic views, The Wipro San Francisco Marathon is the only race that runs in the roadbed of the Golden Gate Bridge. The USA Track & Field-certified Boston Marathon qualifier race starts at the Ferry Building, runs along the Embarcadero, over the Bridge, along the coastline, through Golden Gate Park and the Haight-Ashbury District and past AT&T Park before finishing in front of Cupid's Arrow. Marathon events include a Full Marathon, two Half Marathons, a 5K/Progressive Marathon and the third annual Munchkin Kids Run. For more details, please visit www.thesfmarathon.com.
About Wipro Technologies
Wipro Technologies, the global IT business of Wipro Limited (NYSE:WIT) is a leading Information Technology, Consulting and Outsourcing company, that delivers solutions to enable its clients do business better. Wipro Technologies delivers winning business outcomes through its deep industry experience and a 360 degree view of "Business through Technology" – helping clients create successful and adaptive businesses. A company recognized globally for its comprehensive portfolio of services, a practitioner's approach to delivering innovation and an organization wide commitment to sustainability, Wipro Technologies has 131,000 employees and clients across 54 countries. For more information, please visit www.wipro.com.
Contact:
Joanna Reuland
The San Francisco Marathon
(415) 543-4369
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