ABOUT 2:09 EVENTS

2:09 Events was founded by 1983 London Marathon winner Mike Gratton. While the company name is unusual it is a carefully thought out choice representing his winning time in that event.

The world of marathon running at the highest level has moved on and getting under 2:05 for a marathon is the target for elite runners, but who would deny that a 2:09 marathon still carries significant prestige - certainly amongst British runners - and it probably carries equal kudos to that other land mark time - the sub-4 minute mile.

The 2:09 mark is representative of the high quality and dedication required to reach the highest levels in sport and it is these standards that 2:09 Events aspire to bring to event and tra vel management. The support we offer to those travelling to our very special overseas events as part of the Runner's World Magazine Travel Collection or for our UK races is unique and is a natural consequence of the care we take on the training camps we are renowned for.

In short, we aim to offer you some of the best events in the world and assist you all the way with training plans, advice and easy contact so that you get the most from these very special experiences.

WHO'S IT FOR?

At 2:09 Events we try to establish events that suit all ability levels - from beginner to established sportsmen and women. More than that though, we try to ensure that they are in places that offer something special - we want you to experience a special 'wow' factor.

On training camps we split participants into ability groups so that you will always be supported at the right level and are able to get as much benefit as the more experienced without feeling out of place: it really does work and no one feels left out.

All of the events organized by 2:09, such as the spring 10km series, are designed for all standards - the marshals and finish gantry will still be there until the last person crosses the line and there will be a medal, a drink and a smile to greet you in.

On overseas adventures, if you have trained to finish a marathon then don't be put off because you're more a-back-of-the-pack runner, you will have enough ability to get around and thoroughly enjoy these extraordinary events - if you're not sure then there is usually a shorter option so that you can enjoy the experience without the worry of a full marathon looming over you. Whatever you choose you will come home saying, "I don't know what I was worried about - that was fantastic".

RUNNER'S WORLD TRAVEL COLLECTION

We have been organising training camps for Runner's World Magazine for many years - the famous Algarve Spring Training Camp celebrated its 21st anniversary in 2005. In more recent years we have collaborated on special packages to the Swiss Alpine Marathon and The ING New York City Marathon – we will celebrate 25 years at the ING New York City Marathon in 2008.

The Travel Collection was expanded in 2005 to include the Great Wall Marathon, Kenyan Safari Marathon, Himalayan 100 Mile Stage Race and three new events on the sporting calendar: The Jersey Challenge and the Cyprus International 4-day Running Challenge - each of these is organised by 2:09 Events along with local companies.

In 2007 we introduced the first Cuba Trail Marathon & 25km, a magical week on a fantastic course through sub-tropical forest, banana and sugar plantation and along river beds that served as roads. We continue to explore and develop new events with research now leading us to Bhutan for the Himalayan Kingdom Marathon and we have the possibility of a marathon in Uganda in support of the endangered gorilla population.

ING NEW YORK CITY MARATHON® GUARANTEED ENTRY

The ING New York City Marathon returned to a sell out position in 2004 for the first time since the dreadful events in 2001 on 9/11.

We continue to be an official Travel Partner of the ING New York City Marathon and again we're pleased to guaranteed entry along with the travel packages and to offer a special support package in conjunction with Runner's World Magazine that will ensure you arrive in great shape.

TRAVEL

2:09 Events Ltd became an ATOL bonded Tour Operator in January 2007. Under the bond scheme operated by the Civil Aviation Authority any payments you make to 2:09 Events for flight inclusive packages are fully secure in the unlikely event that 2:09 events Ltd ceased to trade. ATOL Number 9358.

Back to top