What does it take to turn the world’s most famous marathon into a year-round digital platform?

Rob Simmelkjaer, CEO of New York Road Runners, is leading the charge, launching an app with 210K+ downloads in its first few months, building an in-house content studio, and forging global partnerships that could redefine what it means to be a “major.”

Drawing on a career that’s spanned ESPN’s control rooms to NBC’s direct-to-consumer pivots, Rob shares how those lessons are shaping NYRR’s tech roadmap and growth strategy. He also pulls back the curtain on serving 200,000+ youth, managing 40 races a year, and navigating unprecedented demand for NYC Marathon spots, all while keeping community impact at the core.

Plus, you’ll hear how storytelling through projects like Final Finishers is helping NYRR capture the emotional heart of the sport.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Rob’s front-row view of ESPN’s evolution, and what today’s rights holders should copy (and avoid) as direct-to-consumer finally goes all-in.
• How NYRR turned a race-day utility into a year-round product with 210,000+ downloads since March
• NYRR’s approach to redesigning registration, adding Strava-powered virtuals, and expanding member value
• Why NYRR invested in an in-house studio (East 89th Street Productions) to own its narrative, create sponsor-friendly assets, and showcase runners’ most emotional moments
• Sydney’s addition, Cape Town and Shanghai on track, and why a nine-star medal might be coming (plus what that means for runners and host cities)

Resources and Links:

Connect with Rob Simmeljkaer on LinkedIn.

Learn more about the New York Road Runners on their website and tune in to their podcast, Set the Pace, co-hosted by Rob.

Learn more about Next League on our website and LinkedIn. We are leading sports organizations into the digital future.