At a glance: a guaranteed bib is a race entry that a travel operator has received from the race organiser and sells together with the trip. While the operator has places left, whoever books runs, even when direct entries are sold out or allocated by ballot. KiRun, the running brand of Kibo Tours (a tour operator based in Biella, Italy), offers marathons and half marathons in Europe and worldwide this way.

The ways to get a bib for a race abroad

• Direct entry on the race website: the cheapest option, but for the most popular races places run out months ahead, often with prices rising in tiers.
• Ballot: some big races allocate places by drawing among applicants. If you are not drawn, you stay home or look for another route.
• Charity place: the place is guaranteed by a charity partner of the race, in exchange for a minimum fundraising target.
• Qualifying time: a few races reserve places for runners who have already run under a given time.
• Package with guaranteed bib: the bib comes with hotel and services from a travel operator. It is the simplest route when the race is sold out or when you want a certain place before booking flights and hotel.

What a KiRun package includes

• the guaranteed bib while the KiRun allocation lasts: each race page says whether it is included in the price or how much it costs on top;
• a selected hotel, chosen for easy access to the start, the expo and transport;
• KiRun assistance before departure and on site;
• optional cancellation insurance, single supplement and flights, listed on the race page.

What to check before buying a bib

• Who sells it: a licensed tour operator or a partner recognised by the race. Be wary of bibs resold by private individuals: name changes are often not allowed and the bib may not be handed over at pick-up.
• The name on the bib: it must be yours. Entries are personal and the organiser checks your ID at pick-up.
• Documents required by the race, such as a medical certificate or health declaration: they depend on the race and are listed on the race page.
• What is included and the trip’s cancellation terms.

Frequently asked questions

Is the guaranteed bib included in the trip price?

It depends on the race. Each KiRun race page says whether the bib is included in the price or what it costs on top.

Can I book if the race is already sold out?

Yes, if KiRun still has bibs in its allocation for that race. Ask for availability from the race page with the «Ask for availability» button.

Can a non-running companion come along?

Yes, with the price without bib.

How is it different from a charity place?

A charity place depends on a minimum fundraising target for the charity. With a package you pay for the trip and do not have to raise donations.

Races with a KiRun guaranteed bib

For a race you don’t see in the list, write to info@ki-run.it.