When elite runners are invited to high-profile races, they’re promised a few things: a pickup from the airport, dinner and drinks, physical therapy, transportation to the race and a nice hotel for a good sleep. They don’t have to plan any of these things, they’re planned for them. It takes all of the stress of logistics away and allows them to perform at their very best.
What if you could be provided with the same opportunity without the elite bib? Sports Tours International is an organization that brings an elite experience to the non-elite runner. They’ve been taking runners around the world for 45 years, and offer guaranteed entry to some of the biggest races in the world.
Dublin is one of their most popular destination races. The October 27 event starts on Fitzwilliam Street Upper and finishes just before Trinity College in Merrion Square. The course brings runners through the highlights of the city, and once you’re finished, you’re able to celebrate properly–you are in Ireland, after all.
Sports Tours International provides runners with a complete travel experience. Obviously there’s the race, but then there’s also the sights you can see before and after the main event. Their package can be purchased for two or three nights and comes with breakfast and local ground transportation. The runner has to purchase their marathon entry separately but are guaranteed admittance. Sightseeing tours and travel insurance can also be purchased through the company.
Itinerary
You will arrive in Dublin on Friday, October 25, 2019. Once you’ve arrived, you can hit the marathon expo, with runs from noon to 7:00 p.m., or meet up with your local run guide, who will take you through the city for your pre-race shakeout.
Saturday, October 26 is the day before the race. You can take this day to head to the expo if you haven’t already, join one of the tours to the Guinness Store House or City Tour, or take the day to explore solo.
Sunday, October 27 is race day. All of the hotel options are situated near the course, and your local running guide will meet you the morning of your race and escort you to the start line. After the marathon, you have the option to join a post-marathon gala dinner and traditional show.
Monday, October 28 will be your travel day home, but if you’re interested in staying longer, you’re more than welcome to book additional nights at the hotel and explore everything that Dublin has to offer.
Accommodations
There are four hotels to choose from depending on how much you’d like to spend. If you’re travelling solo, there’s also an option to share a room with another guest to save a little money. You can choose your hotel and any additional tours you’d like to book. Your run guide is included with all bookings.
Entering the 2019 Dublin Marathon
The KBC Dublin Marathon is one of Europe’s best marathons because of its flat and fast course and huge participation numbers. The 2019 event is sold out on the main event website, but you’re still able to secure a guaranteed race entry when you purchase a package through Sports Tours International.
For more information about the Sports Tours International tour, click here.
