Category: Races

runDisney Races Are Coming Back!

July 12, 2021

RunDisney races are coming back!  If you haven’t heard already, then you must live under a rock!  Not only that, they are coming back this November for Wine & Dine weekend.  Do you all know what that means?  Registration day is going to be INSANE!  It also means it’s time to start training!

Along with the amazing news that RunDisney has finally bestowed to us, after teasing us on social media for the past few weeks, there are some changes for their return.  I’ll share with you the changes you can expect in comparison to races prior to Covid-19.

runDisney Race Registration

Those of you who still have your Walt Disney World Annual Pass, or are a DVC member, you will no longer have an earlier registration date.  The only people who will be granted early access are the runDisney Club Gold and Platinum members.

If you are not a runDisney Club member and you’d like to join, the registration period to join is currently closed.  According to the runDisney Club page, the current membership term ends on September 30, 2022:

Club runDisney Membership is valid October 1, 2021 through September 30, 2022. Benefits listed expire on September 30, 2022 unless otherwise noted.

I am not a runDisney Club member, and at this point, and from what everyone is saying, it is enticing to want to consider it for the benefit of getting a better corral placement and the ability to register a week early for the races.  However, the early registration option is only available for the Gold and Platinum memberships.  The corral placement option is only available for the Platinum membership.

  • Silver Membership Benefits $265.43
  • Gold Membership Benefits $478.63
  • Platinum Membership Benefits $798.43

Travel Agent Packages

You can no longer book a race package through your favorite travel agent.  All registrations have to be done by the individual runner.  However, you can still book your rooms and park passes through your favorite travel agent.  In fact, I would recommend you get on that ASAP!

From what I am hearing from my podcast friends, that the reason for not having travel agent packages is to entice people to register for runDisney club when it opens again for new members.

Charity Bibs

There is a lot of chatter in the Facebook groups about charity bibs.  From what I have learned, there are requirements of the charities that they are unable to commit to at this time, so the charities that used to receive bibs for the races are not getting bibs for the upcoming races and for 2021.

Registration Dates

Registration is going to be a race in itself.  With so many people chomping at the bit to get back to these races, the registration process will be similar to what it was back in 2014 and 2015 when registration day would cause as much stress as race day!

Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend – November 4-7, 2021:

      • Club runDisney Gold & Platinum Registration Opens July 6, 2021 at 10 AM EST.
      • General Registration for In-Person Races Opens July 13, 2021 at 10 AM EST.
      • General Registration for Virtual Races Opens July 16, 2021 at 10 AM EST.

Marathon Weekend – January 5-9, 2022:

      • Club runDisney Gold & Platinum Registration Opens July 20, 2021 at 10 AM EST.
      • General Registration for In-Person Races Opens July 27, 2021 at 10 AM EST.
      • General Registration for Virtual Races Opens July 30, 2021 at 10 AM EST.

Princess Half Marathon Weekend – February 24-27, 2022:

      • Club runDisney Gold & Platinum Registration Opens August 17, 2021 at 10 AM EST.
      • General Registration for In-Person Races Opens August 24, 2021 at 10 AM EST.
      • General Registration for Virtual Races Opens August 27, 2021 at 10 AM EST.

Springtime Surprise Weekend – March 31 – April 3, 2022:

      • Registration dates have not been announced at the time of this blog post.

Prices

Seems like the prices haven’t changed too much compared to previous years.  Here are the breakdowns for the races:

Wine & Dine Race Weekend:

      • 5K – $95
      • 10K – $135
      • Half Marathon – $215
      • Challenge (10K & Half Marathon) – $360
      • Virtual Races ($79 – $252)

Marathon Weekend:

      • 5K – $95
      • 10K – $135
      • Half Marathon – $195
      • Full Marathon – $195
      • Goofy Challenge (Half Marathon & Full Marathon) – $390
      • Dopey Challenge (5K, 10K, Half Marathon & Full Marathon) – $600
      • Virtual Races ($79 – $480)

Princess Half Weekend:

      • Disney Princess Sunrise Yoga – $95
      • 5K – $95
      • 10K – $135
      • Half Marathon – $210
      • Fairy Tale Challenge (Half Marathon & Full Marathon) $355
      • Virtual Races ($75 – $232)

Proof of Time

This is a big concern for runDisney race participants.  And it has been one of the reasons why I thought I had to register for a local half marathon as soon as we heard if runDisney was going to host races again.  A proof of time is only required if you are going to run a half marathon under two hours.  This was what was written for the Wine & Dine Half Marathon weekend.

The proof of time instructions for the full marathon has been shared in a few Facebook groups.  I saw one that was requiring a marathon finish time of less than 4 hours and another showed a requirement of less than 5 hours.  Either way, I don’t have the ability to run the races that fast, so my corral placement fate will fall into the hands of runDisney.

New Special Offerings

New Race Theme

There is a new race added to the line up.  Instead of the Star Wars Dark Side Half Marathon weekend that took place in April, there is a new Springtime Surprise Weekend which will take place every March.  Each year there will be a different theme for the races.  Details are yet to be released for the 2021 races.

Sunrise Yoga!

I love yoga!  Yoga in front of Cinderella Castle at sunrise?  Sign me up!  During the Princess Half Marathon weekend, there is a special event taking place on the first morning of the event weekend.  Sunrise Yoga will take place before Magic Kingdom opens, led by a professional yoga instructor to help you get your mind and body prepared for the race weekend.

runDisney is coming back!

Photo by Disney Parks Blog

Changes For Race Weekends

Race Day Bib Pickup

Something I used to rely on in case of bad weather or a late flight before the races was race day bib pickup.  RunDisney has now published that this option will not be available.  Race bibs and shirts must be picked up prior to the day of the race.  We are hoping that runDisney has announced that but will still have bibs with them on race morning in case of extreme circumstances, and they just aren’t sharing that the option is available.

Character Stops

The races will still have on-course entertainment; but it won’t be the same as in the past.  Word on the street is that there will be “selfie stops” along the course to take pictures of characters from a distance.  Very similar to how character interactions take places in the parks now.

runDisney is Coming Back!

Kids Races

The kids races are being modified and are not currently offered during the races posted for 2022.  They have published a new experience for kids called the runDisney Kids Adventures; but no details are available at this time.

Spectators

At the time of this blog post, there isn’t a Chear Squad offered for spectators.  RunDisney is still evaluating this experience option.  One of the questions going around is if spectators will be able to cheer from the parks.  I’m sure we will get more info as time goes on.

Which Races Are You Going To Do?

With all of these changes coming back, will you be registering for one of, or all of these races weekends?  I plan to run marathon weekend to continue to keep my streak going.  I will most likely register for Goofy again.  However, I don’t want to miss the Princess Half Marathon weekend and the yoga experience!

Let me know which races you are doing!  I can’t wait to see all of my running friends again!

runDisney Goofy Challenge-expo

2020 runDisney Goofy Challenge – Part 1

January 23, 2020

This year was the first year I was doing the runDisney Goofy Challenge alone, no Dopey Challenge, and no additional races. Five years ago when I did my first Dopey Challenge, Goofy was included in it. But I always felt that my first Goofy Challenge didn’t receive the fanfare it deserved because it was grouped in with Dopey.

I’ll share my experiences with my first Goofy Challenge and what I think about my future with running the runDisney Races

Day 1 – Arrival and Expo Day

After the first of the year rolls around, my nerves kick in. I had done my last training run which was 16 miles on December 27. I like to train a little farther than that; but my schedule didn’t allow for it this year.

Packing and Travel

The kids were heading back to school, I had work to do and I needed to start packing. I was watching the weather and it was calling for warmer weather this year. Instead of packing for every possible weather condition, like I usually recommend, I was packing for the heat.

I made a Donald costume for the half several years ago; but never wore it with the feather skirt yet. I packed it, just in case. I knew that I could always unpin all of the feathers before or during the race if they were too hot.

runDisney Goofy Challenge

If you can arrive to Orlando a day or two prior to your races, that is always best. This allows you time to get to the expo for your race bib(s), get situated at your hotel and acclimated a little bit to the weather. It also gives you time to rest a little before the races begin.

When I run the Dopey Challenge, the races begin on Thursday and I fly in on Wednesday. This year my first race was Saturday so I flew in on Thursday evening. That was helpful to me to allow me a little time prior to the races beginning, to visit friends, prepare for the races, and attend the Cigna Media Event (more on that soon)!

Race Taper

The three weeks prior to the race is considered the taper time. This time can be nerve wracking because you do not have a long training run on the schedule, you are working at staying healthy, and it’s mostly a time of rest prior to the race. This is when the old expression “the hay is in the barn”, comes into play. The training has been done and now you can relax knowing all your hard work will be utilized on race day.

Mental Preparation

Now is the time to overcome your nerves with positive talk and meditation. I especially had to use this time to rely on friends, family and my past to remember that I have done this before and I know what to do. I’ve done five consecutive Dopey Challenges, and seven consecutive Walt Disney World Marathons. I knew I could finish the race. I may not have the fastest race time; but I wanted to have fun.

I discussed a strategy for race day with my friends Amy and Jason Chase. We came up with a good plan for the race and it put all of us at ease going forward. Our plan was to enjoy the races and have fun. We didn’t want to stress over it. We knew we could finish and we wanted to have fun doing so!

runDisney Goofy Challenge Race Expo

After my flight arrived in Orlando, I grabbed my rental car and drove to the expo first. I arrived 30 minutes before they closed, picked up my bib, my shirts and visited with Jeff Galloway. It’s tradition for me to get his signature on my bib before any race that he is at.

runDisney Goofy Challenge

Since I arrived late in the evening, I didn’t have time to visit the runDisney merchandise area. I planned to come back to check out the new merchandise during a different afternoon.

Quick Tip!: If you aren’t one of those individuals who has to have the newest runDisney merchandise and wait for them to open the doors on the morning the expo begins, then you will have a better experience if you attend the expo in the afternoon. When I do this the lines are shorter and I can get in and out much quicker.

Day 1 of the race weekend was an easy day, I grabbed some sushi for dinner from Katsura Grill in Epcot and wandered around the Morocco pavilion when no one else was around! Then I checked into my hotel and began to lay out my gear for the weekend.

runDisney Goofy Challenge

Follow my journey through the rest of the weekend, with the Cigna Media event and a team dinner next!

Do you want to run a runDisney race with me?

Are you interested in a runDisney race? I’m putting a group together for the runDisney Wine & Dine race weekend if you want to join! Visit my facebook page for more info!

Running Adventures With My Son

Running Adventures With My Son

April 11, 2019

In March my son and I participated in the Hartford Marathon Foundation Lucky Challenge. We ran four 5K races in four different towns in the state; and I feel like we ran through four seasons as well!

My son enjoys running with me and this year we had fun with our running adventures as we traveled all over the state of Connecticut. We even had a separate adventure getting to the O’Hartford race! More on that later…

O’Shenanigans 5K in Southington

The first race of the challenge series was on a beautiful morning in Southington. The temps were in the 40’s and the skies were blue. We trained for the races during the week and the temperatures were quite bitter, but it was pleasant running weather that morning.

We had trouble finding a parking spot, so I lost some time to pick up our bib because we had to turn around several times to find a spot. When we finally found one, we had to jog/sprint to the bib pick up area prior to the start. This become a theme for us throughout the Lucky Challenge.

Running Adventures With My Son

I had to pace my son because at one point my son was starting to speed ahead; but I know his running style, so I encouraged him to keep some gas in his tank. I was right, because he was losing speed towards the last half mile of the race.

When we approached the last street heading to the finish line I knew he was going to take off. He likes to race me to the finish line. So I told him to go for it. He shot off like a rocket and sped into the finish.

We met up with my friends Anne, Kat, and Kimberly at the finish and enjoyed the post race celebration with pizza from Sauced and beer from Kinsmen Brewing. We had a good time at the race headed home to enjoy the nice afternoon.

O’Putnam 5K in Putnam, CT

The following day my son and I took the 90 minute drive up to Putnam, CT. The race start was pushed to an hour later due to the weather. Despite the beautiful day on Saturday, Sunday was a completely different day! The weather was in the low 30’s with a cold drizzle. Earlier in the morning it snowed, that is the reason why the Hartford Marathon Foundation changed the start time ahead of time to allow for public works to clear the roads.

When we arrived we had about 15 minutes to spare prior to the race start. We picked up our bibs, I ran up to Main Street to pick up our buffs and then had a few minutes to use the restroom prior to the start.

When we went to the start line, Kevin spotted Anne and Kat. We chose to run with Anne for this race and use the same 30/30 intervals as her. She was preparing for the New York City Half Marathon the following weekend, and this course is hilly. We stayed with Anne for the entire race and it felt like the time went by so fast!

After the race, we all huddled under a tent to stay out of the cold rain while we enjoyed a corn beef sandwich on a pretzel roll. My son said this is the favorite part of this race! He remembered it from when we ran the race four years ago with my entire family.

Running Adventures With My Son

After we ate we ran back to the car to strip off our wet outter layers and put on warm socks and sweatshirts for the long ride home. We blasted the heat and tried to thaw out as fast as we could! Despite the cold, we really had a great time!

O’Niantic 5K in Niantic, CT

The following weekend, the last two races of the Lucky Challenge Series took place. On Saturday morning we had to arrive in Niantic by 9:30 for their 5K. It was another nice clear sunny day for the race and the temperature was also perfect for a race.

Running Adventures With My Son

We arrived with time to get our bib and walk, not run, to the start line. I didn’t see anyone we knew at this race start so we ran by oursleves. We were keeping a great pace for this race. It runs along the neighborhoods not far from the shoreline and past the National Guard barrocks. There is a section of the course where we can see the first place finishers returning back to the finish line. That can sometimes be disheartening; but we were enjoying the race and weren’t in a hurry to break any records.

As we were in the last mile of the race Kevin was having a stitch in his side. I tried to encourage him to push ahead and do some breathing exercises to get rid of it; but he was slowing down and wanted to continue walking. I didn’t push him because I could see he was very uncomfortable. We were on track to getting our best time for these 5K races; but I didn’t want him to suffer. As we got closer to the finish line he was still mostly walking. Then as we had about 100 feet left, he took off again and smoked me at the finish.

I remembered in the past that this race served some amazing chowder for the post race party. I wanted to get some this year so we took the walk to the post race food tents. Sadly, they didn’t have the chowder; but they did have amazing chili so I picked up one for me and one for my son and we walked back to our car.

A Detour Down Memory Lane

On the way home, we took a detour. I had been wanting to see my grandparent’s old house in Guilford for a long time, so I asked Kevin if he wanted to go check it out. It was a lot of fun to drive to the church my dad used to go to, and then to drive on the roads that we used to travel on every weekend when visiting my grandparents. I told him several stories of what we did on the weekends there. It was so much fun telling him the stories of my childhood and visits to their house.

I had such a wonderful time with him that morning. By the time we finished our race and our little side trip, we got home around 1:30 after Adrienne got home from her softball practice.

O’Hartford 5K in Hartford CT

The last race of the challenge was the race in Hartford. Since I ran this race four years ago, I assumed that it was going to start at the same location. It was such a busy weekend, I didn’t take the time to research into the race start, parking or anything related to this race.

When we drove into Hartford, Bushnell Park was empty and I didn’t see any Hartford Marathon Foundation tents anywhere. We parked at a lot and started to walk towards the Bushnell Theater because I saw several other people walking there. Then I noticed that these people were not dressed like runners.

I had a moment of panic so we ran back to the car and I pulled up the race information on my phone and had to re-route us to the correct area. That is where the adventure begins.

The roads were closed because the race was about to start, so the police directed us to the Convention Center parking area. We quickly parked there and had to run almost a mile to the race area. We didn’t really know where it was; but kept running towards the noise of the race announcer, and asked police when we saw them.

As we approached the race area they were already playing the National Athem! So we rushed over to the registration tent, got our bibs and were one of the last people to cross the start line. I think our legs were nice and warmed up from the run across town because we had a decent finish time for this race! I haven’t checked the official results yet; but I think we set a PR for ourselves our of the four races!

Running Adventures With My Son
The final piece for the Lucky Challenge Series medal
Running Adventures With My Son

I Can’t Wait For Next Year!

After all the adventures and quality time together driving to and from the races, we are now proud owners of the Lucky Challenge medal. I think we may do this again next year. He really enjoys running with me and I love having this experience with him.

What to Pack for Marathon Weekend

runDisney Dopey Challenge Packing List

January 7, 2019

Weather Conditions For Marathon Weekend

For the past three years, the weather in Florida in January has been quite unpredictable.  That’s why it is important to know what to put on your Dopey Challenge packing list.  I am providing my packing advice for the Dopey Challenge because it includes all races (except the kid races).  

The first year I ran my first marathon in January of 2013, the temperature was in the mid-80’s with humidity.  The past two years we started the 5K with temperatures 30 degrees or below.  Then each day it got warmer little by little. 

Two years ago, the half marathon was cancelled due to thunderstorms in the area where the volunteers would have been.   I have even heard the stories of how there was sleet and ice at the water stops in 2010.  So now I pack for ALL weather conditions! 

Organize Your Clothes For Each Race

Dopey Challenge Packing ListWhen I run the Dopey Challenge I have a costume for each race.  I place them in zip lock back along with the underwear, bra, socks, compression shorts, and accessories I will need for that race.  This also helps to keep each day organized so when I need to get the next race day laid out, the costume and accessories are all together and easily accessible.  I am also including cold weather clothes with each race outfit. 

Keep Your Race Gear With You

I also pack all race gear, costumes and shoes in my carry on bag when I fly.  That is a must for any race that I run.  I can live without clothes and my makeup; but I can not run without MY GEAR.  

Dopey Challenge Packing List

Also when checking into the hotel the race gear bag is always in my sight.  I don’t want to take any chances of it getting misplaced accidentally.  

What to pack for each race

Running Essentials

The basic running essentials are the items you trained in back home.  On race day is not the time to try out something you haven’t trained with.  You will need one of these for every race.  The essentials include:

  • Socks
  • Compression socks
  • Underwear
  • Sports bra (nipple guards for men)
  • Compression shorts
  • Running shoes
  • Garmin/Running Watch
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Visor
  • Braces or KT tape for problem areas
  • Glide

Running Costume Accessories

If you are wearing a costume you need to consider packing the following into separate baggies:

  • Sparkle skirt or bottoms
  • Top
  • Socks/Compression tights or leggings
  • Wings/headpiece/jewelry
  • Wig
  • Hair clips or bows

Running Accessories

If you run with music or special gear don’t forget to pack those into a separate baggie to keep everything organized

  • Music player and charger
  • Headphones and charger
  • Sunglasses
  • Fuel belt
  • Fuel (Gus, chews, gels, food, etc.)
  • Spi belt 
  • Water bottle

Weather Gear

Running Clothes for Weather

 

To be prepared for all-weather conditions, I pack the following extra items to have just in case:

  • Capri running tights
  • Fleece lined running tights
  • Regular running tights
  • Short sleeve shirts (layering pieces)
  • Long sleeve shirts
  • A throwaway sweatshirt and/or shirt
  • A winter hat
  • Gloves
  • An extra zip up hoodie
  • A bathrobe works very well as a warm layer and easy to shed once the race starts
  • Fleece towel from Wal-Mart that you can easily toss
  • I have seen runners with a towel or blanket from the hotel!

Weather Running Accessories

Without knowing FOR SURE if the weather is going to be what they truly predict, we do have to plan for anything.  Especially if you have run the races in the past two years.  I now will be packing the following additional items just in case.  Even if the forecast shows a perfect 70 degrees and sun all week, I don’t want to take my chances.

I pack the following portable items with me as essentials on race day to have at the race start and finish.

  • Rain Poncho – you can purchase them at Rite-Aid for $1.00 each.  They are folded up nice and small so you can keep it in your race belt.
  • Heat Wrap – The foil mylar thermal blankets you get at the end of races are also sold in stores.  They are usually in the camping section.  I purchased them in bulk on Amazon and have plenty.  I sometimes bring extras with me on race morning in case my friends need one.
  • A plastic bag (grocery bag).  I use this bag on race morning to carry my phone, snacks, water, banana and whatever else I may need that morning.  Then just before the race starts I empty it in the garbage and squish up the bag and tuck it in my race belt.
    • This bag becomes very useful at the end of the marathon when you have your medal(s), a bottle of water or Power Ade, banana, snack box, heat shield and/or cooling towel.
    • It’s especially important should you need to go to the bathroom.  You can leave it all in the bag outside the potty!
  • A Trash bag – If the forecast is sounding like heavy rain, Disney will still start the race.  Grab some large trash bags from the hotel and wear them as a poncho on race morning.  Do your best to stay as dry as you can while you are standing in the corrals waiting.  If it is raining hard on race morning you can wrap your shoes in bags to keep them somewhat dry.
  • Hand Warmers – you can load up on them now at Target in the dollar section or Home Depot sells them in boxes.  Again another compact item that you wouldn’t be sorry you brought with you just in case.
  • Gloves – They don’t sell a lot of gloves in Florida.  It’s not something you can find easily.  Two years ago we noticed socks all over the side of the road during the marathon.  People were using socks for gloves.  Since it was so cold for so long they didn’t start shedding them until around mile 8.
  • Newspaper – to stuff into your shoes if they get wet at a race.  They will be dried out overnight!

The items listed above contain affiliate links.

Bag Check At The Race

Dopey Challenge Packing Tips

This is an example of bag check from the Tokyo marathon.

I left a bag at bag check for my first marathon.  Since then, I don’t really need to check one.  But some people would like their desired items after the race.  To do so, you check your bag at the race start.  Each section represents the first letter of your last name. Then you leave your items in the runDisney plastic bag (this is the only bag they will allow). 

At the end of the race they match your bib number to the bag and you can have your things.  Some people like to have the following after the race:

  • Flip flops
  • Powder
  • Deodorant
  • Dry Shirt
  • Action Wipes or baby wipes

If you follow these tips and have these items with you prior to the race start you are one step ahead of the game!  It’s better to have it with you, then to have to worry about getting a ride to a nearby store and buying throwaway clothes, which usually sell out once people see the forecast is colder than expected.  

Have a great race and I’d love to see you out on the race courses!  Check out my Facebook Page to follow along with me this week!  Please leave your instagram or Facebook page link in the comments so I can connect with more runDisney friends!

Helping a Soldier Readjust to a Civilian Job

Helping a Soldier Readjust to a Civilian Job

December 30, 2018

Despite being diagnosed years ago with scoliosis (a curvature of the spine), Jordan Stubblefield, age 27, used to be very physically active. In fact, he has served in the Army Reserves for over 10 years, including two recent active duty tours in Afghanistan. Now Jordan is readjusting to his full-time civilian job as a senior software developer.

Helping a Soldier Readjust to a Civilian Job
Jordan Stubblefield, military vet readjusting to a civilian job with the helop of Cigna and Achilles

However, the change to a sedentary lifestyle and sitting at a computer for long hours every day has put pressure on his spine and aggravated his scoliosis, causing severe back pain. Looking for a way to keep doing a job he enjoys, Jordan asked his employer about making some changes to his workspace.

“I was no longer physically active without the disciplined approach to exercise that full-time military service gave me. I’m sitting most of the day now. My scoliosis didn’t really bother me when I was active, but I began to get severe back pain once I found myself behind a desk every day,” said Jordan.

Jordan’s employer put him in touch with Cigna. Cigna’s vocational coaches not only help customers who have a disabling illness or injury with their return-to-work efforts, but also provide pre-disability support services to individuals who are experiencing pain or discomfort doing their day to day job tasks. The goal is to prevent the situation from escalating and reduce the likelihood of a person needing to go out on a disability claim.

Jaclyn Sphon, a Cigna vocational coach, helped facilitate with Jordan’s employer adjustments to his work station equipment and helped him reintegrate fitness back into his routine. She also offered him the opportunity to work with Achilles International through Cigna’s customer referral program. Achilles International is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping people with disabilities participate in athletic events. An Achilles personal trainer provided Jordan with a customized workout plan to gradually and safely increase his physical activity, strength and stamina.

“When I brought my workplace accommodation request to my employer, I had no idea of all the resources that would be made available to me through Cigna. Receiving personalized attention from my Cigna vocational coach and Achilles International has helped me get back to feeling at 100 percent and start a gym routine again,” said Jordan.

To celebrate Jordan’s progress, Cigna offered him the opportunity to participate in the Walt Disney World® 5K presented by Cigna on January 10 as a member of Team Cigna.

“For Cigna customers, participating in a race represents a healthy milestone on the road to recovery. We believe that, as you gain –and in Jordan’s case regain –physical strength, you’ll also build confidence, which can positively affect all areas of your life, including your work performance,” said Ryan Bruce, manager of the Healthy Working Life Program at Cigna. “It was an honor for the Cigna team to work with Jordan and help him readjust to a civilian job after his active service to our country.”

“It was surreal to receive an invitationfrom Cigna to participate in the 5k at Walt Disney World. It will be a first time visit for me, and I’m excited to have the opportunity to celebrate my progress in this way. I’m also incredibly grateful for all the support I received to literally get me on my feet and moving again,” adds Jordan.

Overcoming Physical Challenges to Literally Get Back on Her Feet

Overcoming Physical Challenges to Literally Get Back on Her Feet

December 30, 2018

Makeda Lovelace, age 44, from Douglasville, GA, is constantly on her feet –whether it is in her role as a mother to three lively boys or working in the hospital emergency room as a medication history specialist. So when she first began experiencing severe pain in the bottom of her right foot in October 2017, Makeda tried to ignore it so that she could keep up with her busy schedule.

However, this Airforce veteran of 17 years soon found that she couldn’t ignore the pain any longer. During a motorcade parade in support of miltary women, Makeda found she was unable to walk on that foot at all. And she was no longer able to perform her job at the hospital.

Makeda’s health care providers suggested less invasive treatments to begin with –physical therapy, accupuncture, and immbolizing the foot for several weeks –but the pain continued. Then, in Spring of 2018, Makeda underwent surgery. The successful procedure required her to stay off her foot for eight weeks to recover.

Overcoming Physical Challenges to Literally Get Back on Her Feet

“Being out on a disability claim because of my foot was so frustrating. I’m the primary income in our family of five so I was very anxious to get back to work as quickly as possible. I was surprised to learn about the support available through Cameron, one of Cigna’s vocational coaches. He helped with my recovery and getting back to work by providing insights on the types of conversations I should be having with my doctor and employer. I always looked forward to seeing Cigna’s name on my caller ID and catching Cameron up on my progress,” says Makeda.

“Cigna’s vocational coaches partner with customers like Makeda who are unable to work because of a short-term or long-term disability, and together they create a personalized program for health improvement with the primary goal of returning to work,” says Ryan Bruce, manager of the Healthy Working Life Program at Cigna. 

A Cigna vocational coach helps provide access to additional rehabilitation resources,  assess if assistive devices are needed to perform work, provide mentoring for improving physical strength and stamina, and give referrals for mental and emotional wellbeing support.  

Cameron coached Makeda on completing her physical therapy exercises in a structured way so that it was easier for her to track her progress and focus on her return-to-work goals. He also helped her make adjustments to her physical movements once she returned to work – tips that could help reduce the amount of weight on her foot. 

Cigna also offered Makeda the chance to participate in its customer referral program with Achilles International, non-profit organization dedicated to helping people with disabilities participate in athletic events. An Achilles personal trainer will provide additional support through a customized workout plan to gradually and safely increase physical activity, strength and stamina.

“For Cigna customers, participating in a race represents a healthy milestone on the road to recovery, but also independence. We believe that, as you gain physical strength, you’ll also build confidence, which can positively affect all areas of your life, including your work performance,” adds Ryan. 

Eight weeks after foot surgery, Makeda was able to return to her same position at the hospital with no restrictions.  To mark the health progress that Makeda has made over the course of a year with her foot and working towards weight loss goals, Cigna invited her to participate in the Walt Disney World® 5K on January 10 as a member of Team Cigna. 

“When I received the invitation to participate in the Disney World 5k, I couldn’t believe it. It fuels my motivation to continue to stay on a healthy track. You never realize how important work is to your life until it is prevented. You also never realize how important support is during a disability until you receive it.  It has been very comforting to me to work with Cigna and Achilles International because they understand what I’ve been dealing with,” adds Makeda.

I am 2019 BAMBRbassador

I Am A 2019 BAMRbassador!

December 10, 2018

I received the news last week that I was selected out of the 300 applicants to become a BAMRbassador!  I had to keep it a secet until today.  Do you know how hard that was for me?  I was so excited when I saw the email at 2 a.m. (I had to pee).  What does that mean?  It means I am going to be helping my favorite mother runners, Sarah and Dimity from Another Mother Runner!

I Am A BAMRbassador

Dimity was supporting Sarah and other Mother Runners at the Philadelphia Marathon in 2014.  She was on a bike to get them on several areas of the race course.  I was lucky enough to spot her not far from where Sarah was on the way back from the out and back and was in her pain cave at that point.  So we got a quick selfie and off I went.

I Am A BAMRbassador

What is A BAMRbassador?

I am a “Bad Ass Mother Runner” Ambassador.  I’m sure you must have seen me wearing my Bad Ass Mother Runner hoodie around town.  Sometimes when I was at cub scounts or softball practice I wasn’t sure if it was appropriate to have the words Bad Ass on my sweatshirt.  I practically live in that or my North Branford Softball hoodie.

Back to the question.  As a BAMRbassador I will:

  • Support Another Mother Runner at an AMR booth at race expos
  • Share brands of AMR to my readers
  • Introduce other women runners to the power and assets of the AMR Tribe (as Sarah explained it on the announcement today).

Check out the announcement and see if there are other BAMRbassadors you may know!  I’d love to unite all of us in my own Facebook group. I can’t wait to hear what is in store for me this year!  I’d really love to go to one of their retreats.  In fact, as I start planning my vision board for 2019 I am going to put that on there!  Cape Cod is right in my neck of the woods.  Maybe I can even rent a Chrysler Pacifica to drive it there and perhaps pick up anyone who may want to fly in to Hartford, Connecticut.
I am 2019 BAMBRbassador

Who Is Another Mother Runner?

If you are a runner and you haven’t heard of Another Mother Runner, then you have come to the right place. Because it is my pleasure to make you more aware of their presence and what they have to offer us Mother Runners.

I found Another Mother Runner through Facebook.  I believe a friend of mine had shared a link to their first book (the book links are my affiliate links) and I bought it right away for my kindle.  I couldn’t wait to read it while I was on vacation in New Hampshire.  Then I read their second book as soon as I could.  But for their third book I was so excited because I was going to see them at their book signing in Connecticut!  A few of us mother runners, who also run several if not all of the runDisney races, met up for dinner before the book signing.  It was a fun night out!

me and Sarah at Fleet Feet in West Hartford

What Is A Bad Ass Mother Runner?

In my opinion, it’s any mother who runs. Moms are superheros to begin with.  Whether they delivered the child or adopted.  Caring for another human being is an incredible responsibility.  The criteria that makes you a badass mother runner is that you get out there and you get it done.  Despite everything you have that relies on you; you find that time to separate yourself from being mommy and possibly a wife, and have time to yourself, FOR yourself.

I am A BAMRbassador

My first Dopey Challenge in 2015. I am completing my 5th consecutive Dopey Challenge this January.

That’s part of the reason why I got hooked on running.  I’ll share more of my story over the upcoming weeks; but I do know that running is a gift given to us mothers.  If it is your thing, you know it.  And you crave it.

So feed that craving with some Another Mother Runner Podcasts while you are running, or working, driving, or if you can escape to your bathroom for a little bit (oh who am I kidding?!  Mom’s can’t do that!).  But that’s another reason why we run.  To listen to whatever we want or not listen to anything at all except your breathing and the sound of your feet hitting the pavement.

Have you heard of Another Mother Runner before?

Please leave me a comment and let me know if you’d like more information about AMR!

Or share my tweet and help me spread the word!

Pam Frost is a BAMRbassador! #BAMRbassador Share on X

NYC Marathon Taper

How I Prepared for the NYC Marathon

November 4, 2018

November 1 is here and that also means that very soon around this first weekend in November, the NYC marathon is run. A year ago today I was preparing for the start of the NYC Marathon. Last year I made a last minute decision to head down to NYC for Marathon Friday and visit the Pavilion and see the finish line.  This was a good decision because I got a better lay of the land and the subway system.

How I Prepared for the NYC marathon=This exact day last year I was on the train once again to check in to my hotel, go to the expo and have dinner with my friend Linda Ambard.  It was the day before the race and I wanted to make sure I knew where I was going, what time I had to be there and where my family would be able to see me.

A year ago today, I was getting butterflies because the NYC marathon is an entirely new set of logistics for me! A year ago, I was trained. I had fought a bit with my training schedule but was able to manage a safe increase in mileage to be able to fit in a 20 mile run prior to the marathon taper.

Knowing my family was going to be there to cheer me on and see me in three places along the race course meant the world to me.  And our friend Lyla’s dad was also coming to cheer me on.  That also meant the world to me.  Bill also knew how to get around so that was very helpful to my family as well!How I Prepared for the NYC Marathon

What Am I Preparing for This Year?

Right now I am training for the 2019 Dopey Challenge. My 5th consecutive, and possibly my last. I can say I am running, but I can’t say that I am training. I should be training, but I have had more life and work/life juggles to manage this year. And with it being such a critical year that I succeed with my business, I had to let some of my training days slip a bit. I am still at a point where I can recover from that lack of diligence and get back to a firm schedule.  But I have to also consistently ramp up my mileage to at least get in a 20 mile run.

Where Was I then?

This time last year I was full of nerves and anxiety.  But the race was a good focal point for me to set my eyes on a goal.  I had always wanted to run the NYC marathon.  I still haven’t written about my experience yet, but I will.  It was a very important achievement for me.  It began with my diagnosis with kidney vasculitis.

I was unhappy a year ago.  I felt like I wasn’t working where I needed to be.  I wasn’t living my purpose. I was working to please people but I wasn’t happy with what I was trying to make work.  I was in a field of work that just wasn’t the right work for me.

Where Am I Now?

I am in a place of determination, curiosity, fervor with my head down, and soaking in as much as I can learn through my eyes, my ears, and by trial and error.  I am making great friends and have rekindled relationships with old friends.

I am so grateful to the help I have received from my dear friend Claudia.  She has been in the business for a very long time and I have known her for several years.  She has taught me some valuable lessons and exposed me to great opportunities.  I will always be grateful for our friendship.

I am also extremely grateful to my family who are helping support my decision to try to be on my own and work as a self-employed blogger and consultant.  We have made many sacrifices when I lost my job.  But I am working so hard to make my dream a reality.  They have been patient when there are nights that I work late because I am figuring something out, or because I am on a conference call.

I appreciate them but also need to remember that they are more important than work.  Sometimes I am so deep in learning something new that time gets away from me and I realized that I didn’t get to have family time with them.  And that’s when I feel extremely guilty.  I hope they understand and learn work ethic from me.  But I also need to show them a good example of work life balance.  I’m working on it.  It’s a critical time for me to make a good name for myself and deliver to my clients.

I’m Moving Forward and Not Looking Backwards

Even though my running/training needs some work, I have been getting out for a run, but I’m not getting enough long runs.  When I did my 7 mile long run I felt amazing.  I need to get another long run in as soon as I can.  I also noticed that when I stopped work to get my run done, I felt less guilty about making time for myself.  So it just needs to fit back into my life again like it did before.  I need to stop and take time out for me and my family.

2018 runDisney Virtual Shorts

runDisney Virtual Shorts Are Coming Back For The Summer!

March 21, 2018

With the release of The Incredibles 2 movie this summer, runDisney is hosting the 2018 Virtual Shorts Series again.  You can choose to run one, two or all three of the virtual 5K races and earn an incredible medal for each one OR earn a special series medal in addition to all three of them!

The three races have their own themed medals featuring Elastigirl, Mr. Incredible and Violet, and Dash and Jack Jack.  If you participate in each individual race you will receive the respective medal for that race.  If you participate in the Series, you will receive all three medals, a magnet frame, a special series medal PLUS a resistance band and a hot/cold gel pack.

Each race takes place over each month of the summer.  You can walk or run through any 3.1 mile course of your choosing in your own neighborhood, or participate in a local race and use that towards your virtual run.

I participated in the first series that runDisney released of the Virtual Runs in 2016.  With the theme related to The Incredibles 2, I don’t want to miss out!

Registration* for the race will open soon.

5K Participants will receive:

  • Commemorative finisher medal
  • Magnet Frame
  • A Walt Disney Records Spotify playlist
  • Downloadable Race Bib
  • Downloadable Finisher Certificate

June

When you participate in the June Virtual Running Short any time between June 1 – 30, 2018, you will receive the Elastigirl finisher medal.

Cost $40

July

When you participate in the July Virtual Running Short any time between July 1 – 31, 2018, you will receive the Mr. Incredible and Violet finisher medal.

Cost $40

August

With the last run of the summer, taking place August 1 – 31, 2018, you can take home the Dash and Jack Jack finisher medal.

Cost $40

The Virtual Running Shorts Series

Should you participate in all three 5K virtual runs, you will receive each individual distance medal PLUS the Incredible Series Medal.
Note:  To receive the Incredible Series Medal you must register for the Virtual Running Shorts Series when registration opens.

Cost $142

Share Your Incredible Experience

Share your experiences us know how you did using #runDisneyShorts on all social media channels.

Celebrated Charity

The Boys & Girls Club of Central Florida are the recipients of independent donations from runDisney in honor of runDisney Virtual Running Shorts.  When you register* for the runDisney Virtual Running Shorts you will have the opportunity to make a donation to the Boys & Girls Club of Central Florida.   Learn more at www.bgccf.org.

  • *Entry fees for the runDisney Virtual Running Shorts are non-refundable.
  • *Disney reserves the right to refuse the entry into, and/or revoke any registration for, any race for any reason in its sole discretion with refund of any applicable registration fees being the sole remedy of any such refusal and/or revocation.
  • *All races are non-transferable between individuals.
Walt Disney World 10K

2018 Walt Disney World 10K

March 20, 2018

The Walt Disney World 10K is the second race of the Dopey challenge.  It took place on Thursday, January 5 at Epcot. The corrals were the same set up as the previous day’s 5K race.  Since I was in Corral F with my family the day before I also had to start in Corral F for the 10K.  My intention was to run with Team Shenanigans.  So I knew I was going to have to run most of the first 3.5 junk miles before getting into Epcot where I usually find them at the photo stops.

2018 Walt Disney World 10K Pre Race

With the start time of 5:30 I knew I could get up at 4:00 with the intent to leave the hotel at 5:00.  I actually left at 5:10 and arrived to the Epcot parking lot at 5:28 a.m.  I was in my corral at 5:43 and still had plenty of time to wait.  My corral crossed the line and started the race at 6:10 a.m.  It was 36 degrees, warmer than the 28 degrees we had the day before!  But it still felt pretty cold.  I had on several layers.

Character Stops

As usual, this course is the same as it has always been with the first 3 miles along Epcot Center Drive and then through the back stage of Epcot and then we entered the park through Norway.  I didn’t stop for photographs but I did take some as I ran past the photo stops.

The first was the racoon, Meeko from Pocahontas

Walt Disney World 10K
The second was Flik and Princess Atta from A Bug’s Life (they weren’t available for photos at the time)

The third was The Witch from Snow White.

Walt Disney World 10K

As I got into Epcot I kept my eyes peeled for the team.  I spotted them at the first photo stop with Rapunzel and Flynn.  I was so happy to have caught up with the team.  I also warmed up from the running.  While standing in the line for a while I started to get cold.

Walt Disney World 10K

After that we ran to the next photo stop with Pinocchio in Italy.

Walt Disney World 10K

Then we saw Marie the Cat from the Arisocats over in France.

Walt Disney World 10K

At that point the balloon ladies had passed us and we were being warned that at any time we could be swept from the course.  Susanna and I knew we could outrun them so right after the picture stop, we ran the entire way from France to the International Gateway, over to the boardwalk, past Sports Goofy at ESPN, over the bridge near the Swan and Dolphin, and then I caught up with Jackie near mile 5.  Jackie and I walked together and talked and enjoyed the rest of the race together as we went backstage in Epcot over to the UK and through the front of the park.  We went past the large water fountain, under Spaceship Earth, around the front waterfall to return back up under Spaceship Earth.  That’s where the course turns left towards the outside of the park to the finish line.

Post Race

Kenny was passing out medals so we got our 10K medals from our teammate Kenny!  I finished the race in 1 hour 46 minutes.  I do like the Walt Disney World 10K course, despite the road miles in the beginning.  I always enjoy running through Epcot in the morning as the sun is rising.Walt Disney World 10K

I also like this race because I finish early enough to get back to the hotel and have some time to rest.  The Cigna Bloger Meet up usually takes place on the day of the 10K.  I was able to have breakfast, shower and get some work done prior to heading over to the meet up.

2018 Walt Disney World 10K Mile Splits

2018 Walt Disney World 10K

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