• by Tanya Gazdik , September 10, 2020

Although this year’s TCS New York City Marathon won’t have the energy of an actual race, Volvo Car USA is offering a sweepstakes for the runners, who will now be completing the race on their own. 

The in-person part of the event was canceled due to coronavirus-related health and safety concerns, but runners from around the globe can still run their 26.2 miles anytime, anywhere between Oct. 17 and Nov. 1. As a bonus, Volvo Cars will give each participant a chance to win a new car.

As the official vehicle of the TCS New York City Marathon, Volvo is pivoting to make the most of sponsoring the now-virtual event. 

Via the “Run for Volvo Cars” sweepstakes, runners who sign up to complete the race on treadmills and in other ways while practicing physical distancing, can enter to win a Volvo.

After runners register for the virtual marathon at nyrr.org, they can visit www.RunforVolvoCars.com and design a new 2021 Volvo including color and trim. 

One winner will be randomly selected to win a car with the design he or she chose.

As a company focused on safety, Volvo supports the cancellation, says Rick Byrant, sales operations, Volvo Car Americas Region.

“As we find ourselves in a time where health and safety are at the forefront of our thoughts, it’s critical we lend our support to ensure a safe marathon experience for all,” Byrant says in a release. “With this program, we hope to provide a safe escape and added incentive for this passionate community of runners.”