Find Inspiration: New York Marathon Stories with Adventure Time Travel
travelogue
Meet Joanna, proving to her grandkids that age is just a number
My marathon journey started in 2019 when I went to an information event (in Brisbane) held by Adventure Time Travel/Anna in regard to the New York Marathon. It was to be the 50th Anniversary of the marathon (& I wanted to do the marathon before I turned 60 in 2021) and Anna’s enthusiasm for this event was contagious and I signed up with Adventure Time Travel the next day.
So I found a running coach and started my marathon training… then Covid hit the world, and everything was shut down. Devastating to say the least. So that dream was put on hold until 2023 when I rebooked with Adventure Time Travel and restarted my marathon training. Getting swooped on by the magpies on my runs definitely made me run faster for sure.
I also wanted to show my 8 grandkids that age is just a number, and you can do hard things if you put in the work physically and mentally.
So I finally got to New York late October 2023 and Anna & her team couldn’t have been more welcoming. They organised extra events for us all, including New York theatre tickets, ice hockey shows and training runs around Central Park.
The marathon day itself is one I will never forget. The people of New York are amazing. The cheering, the enthusiasm they have for you is just wonderful. I think about the race everyday and that is why I have rebooked with Adventure Time Travel for the Berlin 2024 Marathon, as I wouldn’t trust anyone else to organise such a smooth, worry free and welcoming marathon adventure.
Bring on BERLIN 2024!
– Joanna Budge
Ben O’Brien Shares His Marathon Journeys with Adventure Time Travel
My name is Ben O’Brien and I’m from Adelaide. I was a workaholic for far too long and it’s only in recent years I’ve prioritised fitness and taken up running as my religion since 2021. And even though it’s taking me longer to scroll to my year of birth in online forms, I haven’t stopped achieving personal bests.
I was absolutely impressed by the experience crafted by the ATT team for the TCS New York marathon in 2023 that I just had to sign up for more!
I’m going back-to-back with Berlin & Chicago 2024 which will be my 6th and 7th marathons for the year. I’m really looking forward to smashing the 42.2 with the rest of the crew for those marathons and I’ll be joining ATT for London 2025 too!
What I enjoyed most about the ATT experience in New York was:
- Mingling with others in the group and learning where they were in their running journeys and seeing them enjoy the success of finishing their races.
- I could pick and choose the activities I wanted to do and there was no pressure to do it all.
- Quite a few of the group asked if I’d been running all my life. I think Anna paid them to say it so I’d come back for more 🙂
In the next year or so I’m looking forward to completing my Six Star journey and also completing marathons in NSW, NT & WA so that I’ve done one in each state and territory. Beyond that, who knows…
– Ben O’Brien
Karen Snook: Running with ATT in New York City
Running a marathon is more than just a race; it’s a journey filled with challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable experiences. My recent adventure with Adventure Time Travel at the NYC Marathon was a testament to this.
The NYC Marathon: A Windy Road
Participating in the NYC Marathon was a dream come true, but it wasn’t without its hurdles. The course was windy, both literally and figuratively, with many setbacks along the way before I even arrived in NYC.
Despite these challenges, the support and organization provided by Adventure Time Travel made a world of difference. Their meticulous planning and encouragement helped me push through the tough moments and cross the finish line.
Looking Ahead to Berlin
Now, as I train for the Berlin Marathon, I am filled with excitement and anticipation. My training is going well, and I am determined to have a much better run than in NYC. The flat and fast course of Berlin is renowned for personal bests, and I can’t wait to experience it.
Why Adventure Time Travel?
Choosing Adventure Time Travel again for Berlin was an easy decision. Their exceptional hosting in NYC left a lasting impression on me. From seamless logistics to motivational support, they ensured that every runner felt valued and prepared. I am confident that their expertise will once again enhance my marathon experience in Berlin.
Join the Journey
If you’re considering running a marathon, I highly recommend Adventure Time Travel. Their dedication to making each marathon a memorable and enjoyable experience is unparalleled. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a first-timer, they provide the support and community you need to succeed.
How David Harrison ticked off a bucket list item with ATT
November 2023 at the age of 53 I ticked “marathon” of my bucket list. I have had it on my list of things I wanted to do for more than 10 years.
Whilst running a marathon is an individual achievement it is way more enjoyable and less stressful to do it with a group.
Anna is ridiculously knowledgeable with her training program which is way beyond just running and includes mental stuff, strength, nutrition, recovery, injury management etc. all of this helps you be better prepped.
It’s still bloody hard work finishing 42km but everybody in our group of all different ages and shapes and sizes went into the event knowing they were going to finish – and we all did.
Aside from the marathon itself it was awesome meeting and spending time with the group of people all on the same journey and with their own story to tell.
Totally recommend Adventure Time Travel – if you have “Marathon” on your to do list then look into it. Don’t stress about your age or size or times or niggling injuries or experience or any other little voices giving you reasons why you shouldn’t do it and I promise it will be one of the coolest things you ever do.
2023 Testimonials
Vanessa Leone
I loved my NY journey – being nervous about travelling to the other side of the world alone was a huge step for me. It is an experience that I will carry with me for a lifetime and I have made forever friends!! Really looking forward with running with you again!!!
I cant rate the team highly enough – shout out to Kimberly who worked tirelessly to ensure we were always looked after, no one was ever left behind – always there to answer questions and just general support at all hours! The day of the marathon is where you all shone! The getting picked up, to getting fed, to taking us to the start line – flawless and that itself is worth its weight in gold – so thank you so thinking of everything on gameday team!
Michelle Stollznow
Amazing experience, very professional, and took all the worry out about the logistics, bookings, and activities. Everything was perfect and enabled me to be at my comfort level with involvement/non-involvement in pre-arranged optional activities. I could fully focus on my running preparation, and just enjoy the whole experience! I will definitely be doing another running event with Adventure Time Travel, and have also recommended to all friends wanting to do the NY Marathon!
Kristen Waddingham
Fabulous team. All so lovely and helpful. It felt like they knew us all and were always visible and approachable. Absolutely 5 star.
Such a great way to do a major event overseas. The camaraderie was great, the atmosphere was fun and the Adventure Time Travel team made the trip easy. Wouldn’t go any other way than with ATT.
Heidi Sweet
To the entire team at Adventure Time Travel thank you so much!! The experience from the minute
we signed up until the last celebration drink on Sunday night was just amazing & seamless.
The enthusiasm, professionalism and communication is second to none and most importantly you
enabled the entire team in our travelling party to cross the finish line!!
We have met some inspiring people, made many new friends and we now have a lifelong bond. Running the New York Marathon is a once in a lifetime experience. Thanks you Adventure time for the most amazing memories!!