Whether you are a short distance or long distance runner, being a part of a runDisney race is an experience like no other! Even if you have never run a mile before in your life, striving for and reaching a goal of participating in a runDisney race is one that you will never regret.
At all runDisney races enjoying the experience comes first. Runners are there to finish the distance and have fun while doing so. You know this is true when head to the race surrounded by many people dressed up as princesses, monsters, and villains. People of all shapes and sizes, from the young to the old become your comrades on your path – from the fireworks that you begin with to the confetti on the ground as you finish. Picture Mickey himself giving you a high-five for accomplishing what many only dream about!
Signing up for a runDisney race begins many months in advance. This is great because you commit to the race and in turn have plenty of time to train, even if it’s your very first race. runDisney caters to runners of all distances – from kids’ races and 5Ks to half marathons and full marathons, plus challenges that combine multiple distances. Don’t delay on signing up as races fill quickly. runDisney even provides a training schedule by Jeff Galloway for the longer distances to be sure you get the appropriate training to finish strong and within the very reasonable time limits.
As a first time runDisney participant this year, the Wine and Dine Half Marathon was a great introduction to the world of half marathons and runDisney races. From the moment of stepping onto the grounds of the ESPN Wide World of Sport Complex and seeing the welcome signs excitement started to build. Disney is great at efficiency and the packet pickup went very smoothly for all. Next came attending the race expo. Every item on a runner’s wish list can be found at the expo –t-shirts, race belts, medal holders, and even the runDisney official running shoes!
The weekend culminates with the race itself. runDisney matches the excitement you find at any of the Disney parks. Fireworks mark the start of the race for each corral and the entertainment as you run along the course gives a party atmosphere all the way through. With photo opportunities with Disney characters, people lined up along the course to cheer you on, not to mention running through the parks with nobody else there it is such a treat for each runner. You’ll find yourself at various times singing along to the songs and dancing your way through one of the most memorable times of your life!
The pride of accomplishment is a high like no other at the end of a race. Give yourself a few days to recover and you’ll be wondering when the next runDisney sign up is happening! runDisney’s motto is “every mile is magic”. Try a runDisney race yourself and experience that magic as you make your dreams come true!
Michelle Browne
Travel Specialist
