Martin’s journey running the biggest marathons in the world for 15 years

Fifteen years ago, Martin Wilde laced up his running shoes and took on his very first marathon with Sports Tours International. Fast forward to today, he’s a proud Six Star Finisher and has crossed the finish line at countless marathons and half marathons around the world, including his most recent at the United Airlines NYC Half. We caught up with Martin in New York where he shared his inspiring journey that’s taken him from first-time marathoner to a six-star finisher.

15 Years running with Sports Tours International 

Back in 2010, I was already active, football, cricket, all sorts of sports, but I wanted to try something different. I decided to try long distance running. Not just local races, but big international events in incredible cities around the world. A great way to stay fit, travel and take on something meaningful.

The TCS New York City Marathon, the biggest marathon in the world.

A friend recommended Sports Tours to me, so I reached out. Within no time, I got a reply from Vicki Roth, who helped me secure a spot at the TCS New York City Marathon without the need for a ballot place (my first barrier that I came across). From the very beginning there was nothing to worry about, I felt like part of the family. Everything was handled so professionally, but with a really personal touch. I might be a decent runner and part of a club, but I’m an amateur at heart doing this for fun and yet Sports Tours treated me like a pro.

That first marathon in New York? Unforgettable. The crowd, the atmosphere, the sheer scale of it all, it was love at first race. Sports Tours took care of every detail, from getting us to the start line to hosting a pre-race briefing that really settled the nerves. And the post-race party was the perfect celebration to end the weekend. Whether you’re running solo or with family, you’re welcomed in with open arms. My family came along, and they were looked after just as well, there was even a dedicated cheer zone for them, so I knew exactly where to run to on the course for a much-needed hug.

And that was the beginning of my running journey 

In 2011, I ran the Chicago Marathon. In 2012, the Berlin Marathon and in 2013, I travelled with Sports Tours to run the Boston Marathon, one of the most iconic races in the world and the unicorn marathon because it’s so hard to get into, but that year turned out to be unlike any other.

Just before 3pm, as many runners, including friends and fellow club mates, were approaching the finish line on Boylston Street, two bombs were detonated near the crowd. It was shocking, horrifying, a moment that shook the global running community to its core.

Sports Tours handled the situation with incredible professionalism and care. They made sure everyone in our group was accounted for, safe and supported in the aftermath. Their communication was constant and reassuring during what was a deeply emotional and confusing time.

I returned to Boston the following year, in 2014, to run the marathon again. For me, and for many others, it was about paying tribute, honouring the lives lost, standing in solidarity with the city and showing that fear wouldn’t win. The spirit in Boston that year was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. The crowd, the runners, the unity, it was incredibly powerful. I was honoured to be part of it.

That same year, Sports Tours took me to Tokyo. I literally walked from my hotel room to the start line of the Tokyo Marathon, and after finishing, walked straight back to my room. The logistics were seamless, and once again, I felt totally supported.

Then came London, the final piece of the puzzle. Completing the Abbott World Marathon Majors and earning my Six Star Medal was an emotional, once-in-a-lifetime experience and one I couldn’t have done without the Sports Tours International support.

These days, I’ve switched gears to focus on the half marathon circuit. The body’s not quite what it used to be, and I like the distance of a half marathon because it allows you to able to explore the city fully before and afterwards! I recently ran the United Airlines NYC Half Marathon, and once again, Sports Tours delivered another amazing experience with the pre-race briefing putting me and ease, it was military grade standard, and I was so impressed.

In short: don’t think, just do.

There are plenty of companies out there, but don’t settle for second best. Sports Tours genuinely care about what they do. I’ve known some of the team for over 15 years and their passion is real. They treat every runner, whether amateur or elite, like a VIP. You’re never just a number. From the coaches to the logistics team, they go above and beyond to support you at every step.