Want to Run the Marathon World Majors? Here’s How!

In this special pre-recorded episode of the FORDY RUNS podcast, host Chris Ford, along with co-host Hayden and guest Paul from Sports Tours International, share insights on their experiences at the Chicago Marathon weekend. The opening highlights the excitement of the Chicago Marathon and the collaborative chat among the hosts.

Paul introduces the history and growth of Sports Tours International, an international tour operator that specializes in marathon travel. He shares the challenges of meeting the demand for popular events like the New York Marathon and explains the intricacies of how entries are allocated to tour operators.

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the new World Marathon Major in Sydney and the potential inclusion of Cape Town as the eighth major. Participants share their excitement about the course, community, and atmosphere that these events foster, while also acknowledging the past issues faced by certain marathons.

The conversation also touches on the Super Halves series, emphasizing the growing popularity and accessibility of half marathons in Europe. Chris and Hayden stress the value of taking time to enjoy the journey of running, rather than rushing through to achievements. Paul highlights the emphasis that Sports Tours places on creating memorable experiences for athletes, from pre-race briefings to post-race celebrations.

The show wraps up with a reminder that enjoying the journey is paramount in running, particularly for those aiming for prestigious events like the Six-Star Marathon Medal and increased focus on how runners can leverage their experiences for future entries in marathons, making use of tourist packages and support systems available.