# Spontaneous Torch Relay Pranks Improv Everywhere's Olympic Torch Run Brings the Games to NYC By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2014-02-20 | Unique Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/olympic-torch-run References: [improveverywhere](http://improveverywhere.com/2014/02/17/surprise-torch-run/) & [youtube](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52gB_rDBQrc) This Olympic-themed prank from Improv Everywhere involved the set up of a mock Olympic Torch Run to get people of NYC in on the action. For the stunt, a runner emerges from a subway station with a flaming torch in hand and feigns a hurt ankle to get someone else to finish her leg of the relay. When the unsuspecting victims of the prank turn the corner, they are greeted by a huge crowd, cameras and a woman from the press who wants an interview with the so-called "American hero" who continued to keep the Olympic flame going strong. The prank is harmless, fun and it gives people the chance to do something that’s a once-in-a-lifetime — even if it’s not totally the real thing. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.7/10 - Popularity: 24% | Activity: 79% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Unique](https://www.trendhunter.com/unique) > [Pranks](https://www.trendhunter.com/pranks) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Immersive Pranks:** Opportunities exist for businesses to create immersive experiences through prank-based events or activations. - **Crowd Engagement:** There is potential for businesses to engage and entertain crowds through unexpected and interactive performances. - **Unique Brand Experiences:** Brands can create unique and memorable experiences for their audience by incorporating elements of surprise and playfulness. ### Who This Affects Most - **Entertainment:** The entertainment industry can explore new ways to captivate audiences by leveraging immersive and interactive prank experiences. - **Event Planning:** Event planners can incorporate prank-based activities to enhance crowd engagement and create memorable experiences. - **Marketing and Advertising:** Brands can leverage prank campaigns to generate buzz, engage with their target audience, and create unique brand experiences. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Slick Steel Torches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2024-olympic-and-paralympic.md) - [Streetside Challenge Billboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gymbox-start-line.md) - [Exclusive Olympic Viewing Events](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/airbnb-musee-dorsay.md) - [Olympic-Themed Mobile Games](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/olympic-games-jam-beijing-2022.md) - [Thrill Ride-Topped Ultra-High Skyscrapers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-torch.md) - [Playful Tomato Athletes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/national-games-campaign.md) - [Immersive Virtual Marathons](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/virtual-marathon.md) - [Time-Keeper Olympics Pop-Ups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/omega-paris-2024-project.md) - [Digital Snowball Competitions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lego-snow-throw.md)