fbpx

Tag: 5K

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!

Beginner's 5K Training Plan

Beginner’s 5K Training Plan

March 19, 2021

DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING I GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH MY LINKS, AT NO COST TO YOU. 

Running is fun and therapeutic.  It is also good for your health.  It is also a great family activity.  I’m going to share with you my beginner’s 5K training plan so you and/or your family can do something together for a good cause and for your own pleasure.

In the past I have shared advice on how to begin running and what you will need to get yourself set up for the sport.  Now, I will share some mental preparation and training info to help you successfully fall in love with the sport.

Don’t Be Intimidated

The first step is to believe in yourself.  Running is an acquired taste.  It can be intimidating at first.  A mile may feel like 10 miles, but that’s ok.  If you need to take a walk break you can.  In fact, that’s how I run.  I use the run/walk/run method.

I began running later in life, so I follow a run/walk/run method to help preserve my body and to allow me to run farther and believe it or not, that method of running can also help you run faster!  But for now, we just want you to get out and run without worrying about your speed.

Follow My Beginner’s 5K Training Plan

It’s important to have a plan.  You can’t just lace up your shoes and run 3 miles right out the door without training.  Well, you can, but your body won’t be happy about it.  I have put together a beginner’s guide for running a 5K so you have a framework to work from and to know how to safely prepare for running your first 5K.

Download this beginner’s 5K training plan, tape it to your fridge and follow the guidance for a successful race day.

Beginner's 5K Training Plan

To help with the intervals, you can set up your sports watch for the walk/run interval settings, or you can purchase a simple battery operated interval timer.  You can set the start and stop time allowing you to time both the walk and run segments.

Each week you will increase your distance and running time by a small amount.  It’s important to take the rest days and to also cross train.  Your muscles, tendons and joints need time to rebuild.

Cross Train

Having a strong core and posterior chain is very important to your success when running.  Your glutes, hamstrings and quads can become weak when you run and don’t do other exercises.  Believe it or not, you end up with “lazy ass” syndrome.

Healthy Heart Habits

In the upcoming weeks I will also share the different exercises you can do to keep your core and posterior chain strong.  The general exercises you can do are squats, lunges, bridges and planks.

Find Your Own Pace

When you begin running, don’t worry about speed at first.  To know if you are going at a good pace, the test is usually how you can hold a conversation while running.  If you are huffing and puffing while trying to talk, then you are going too fast.  Slow it down a little so you can breathe.  If you run too fast at first, you will burn out before you reach the finish line.

It is also helpful to incorporate walk breaks into your run.  When doing so it helps you to maintain a good pace, allows you to finish your distance on the plan, and makes you feel good about accomplishing something challenging such as running!

Don’t Compare Yourself to Others

As in everything in life, comparison is the thief of joy.  I know it is hard not to compare yourself to other runners.  I want to be faster, but that’s not my actual goal right now.  When I train, I am training to finish the race.  If you have a speed goal in mind, we will talk about that in the future.

As a beginner, it’s about completing the race and having a good time while doing so.  You are also doing it to make you feel good and for better health.  Don’t compare yourself, or think that you don’t look like a runner.  Anyone can run.  Runners don’t have to fit a specific mold.  Remember that next time you think you aren’t a real runner.

Listen To Your Body

When you first start running, you are going to be excited to run.  If you are like I was, you may want to run every day.  That’s not a good idea.  You need to pace yourself.  One of the biggest mistakes with first time runners is running too fast, and too often.  When you do that, you risk developing shin splints, IT band issues, or a stress fracture.

Of course when you run, there will be some discomfort afterwards.  It’s important to know the difference between muscle soreness and an injury.  If you do feel like you have an injury, be proactive and go see your doctor.  It’s better to get it managed sooner than later.  If you continue to run through an injury, you will make it worse.  Trust me, I’ve been there!

Are You Ready to Run A 5K Now?

I hope this training plan is helpful to you.  Please share your experiences for your first race, I’d love to hear how you do!  Also follow me on Instagram for my race photos and tips.

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.

Running Goals for 2019

My Running Goals for 2019

February 20, 2019

Now that I already have the 48.6 miles from the runDisney Dopey Challenge under my belt for this year, I am working on my running goals for 2019.  Each year I set goals for which races I want to run locally or in different states.  I don’t have a Fall marathon on my schedule.  I didn’t get into the New York City Marathon this year so I have to consider an option for a different marathon or to decide if I even want to run a Fall marathon.  I do know that I am going to participate in several 5K races and a handful of half marathons in Connecticut.

Upcoming Races

My son and I will be running the Hartford Marathon Foundation Lucky Challenge. He told me he wanted to run these races with me again, and he also wanted to see the medals. Looks like he has inherited a little bit of the bling fever from me!

Where Am I Running To Next

We will run four 5k races in four towns of Connecticut.  These back to back race weekends lead up to St. Patrick’s Day for the final race in the state’s capital.  These races are a lot of fun and we get dressed up in St. Patrick’s Day accessories.

We don’t run fast but we enjoy the time driving to the races, running the races, the great swag, seeing my friends, and even the post race corn beef sandwiches.

Running Goals for 2019

What Are My Goals?

More Half Marathons

I am planning to get a decent proof of time for any future runDisney races. I am training for, and running the Cheshire Half Marathon in April. That is where I have had my best half marathon finish times. It is also the location of my very first half marathon.  I’m also planning on doing the Cape Cod and Hartford Half Marathons.  I may consider the Hershey Half Marathon as well this year.

Incorporate Speed Work Into My Training

It’s going to take some work and dedication to increase my speed for my next half marathon in April. I want to get a finish time between 2:15 a 2:30. It’s a big push goal for me.

But in order to get faster you have to do the cadence drills like Jeff Galloway recommends.  I trained with Jeff Galloway with his e-coaching for my first Dopey Challenge.  I found his training plan to be spot on and I successful with finishing my first and now fifth Dopey Challenge.

Hit The Hills

Yea hills are no fun. But it is a nice change for your body to push yourself up the hills. You need the challenge and it will ultimately make you stronger.  Here are some tips on how to begin running and including it as a part of your lifestyle.

Hit The Gym

You can also incorporate cross training that includes squats and runner lunges that Fitz Kohler offers.  She has great exercise programs dedicated to just runners of all abilities.

How To Register For A Disney Race

Registration for next January’s races opens up on April 19th so I have a little over a month to decide. I don’t know if this year it will sell out. Last year it did not. To register for a runDisney race or to see other runDisney races, visit www.rundisney.com.  During the summer runDisney also does a virtual 5K series. I participated in the first year. Last year the theme was on the Incredibles along with the release of their new movie. I wonder what this year’s theme will be!

Will I Do Dopey Again?

I really don’t know how to answer that! I want to…. so I guess between now and when the registration opens I have to make some decisions and do a reality check. I should also talk with the friends of mine that were freaking out along with me just before the race weekend.

I did have such a great race this year. Despite my fears, I surprised myself with my strong finish. I’ll do some soul searching and think about my intentions while I continue to remain consistent with my weekly running and cross training schedule.

Running Goals for 2019

What races are you running this year? Share them in the comments. I’d love to hear from you!

My Running Goals for 2019

Walt Disney World 5K

2018 Walt Disney World 5K

March 19, 2018

The Walt Disney World 5K took place on Thursday, January 4 at Epcot. The corrals were separated from A through F. Our family was spread apart into three different corrals, from C to E to F. We all began in F so we could stay together.

With the start time of 5:30 we all woke up at 4:00 with the intent to leave the hotel at 5:00. Knowing that we are just minutes away from the race and that our corral would start late since we are the last corral, I chose to leave as late as possible so the kids could sleep. We arrived to the Epcot parking lot at 5:22 a.m. and as we were walking to the corrals the wheelchair athletes were taking off and then the other corrals were releasing. I wasn’t worried though because I checked my Garmin from last year and we didn’t start our race until 6:48 a.m. I knew we had time to spare and to not rush into the race start and corrals. Even with a late arrival we had time to wait in the corral before we took off at 6:19 a.m.

Once it was time for our start Carissa handed the microphone to Adrienne and she got to say “GO!” with Rudy! As we started it was 28 degrees out! Adrienne and Kevin and I wore mylar blankets to keep warm in the corral and had to drop them before we crossed the start line. As we started walking the first mile, poor Adrienne was crying. Her feet were so cold from standing in the parking lot prior to the race and they were itching her. The first mile was rough for her; but then once we got into Epcot her spirits lifted. The distraction of the characters and seeing the sights in the park helped her.

We stopped for pictures with the Vikings in Norway, and Jiminy Cricket in Italy and then continued on throughout the course. Since we were the last racers to cross the start line we didn’t have time to stand in any long lines. However, the characters that were there were:

Flynn and Rapunzel in Germany
Chip and Dale
Kenai and Koda from Brother Bear
Horace Horsecollar

We finished the race in 1 hour 10 minutes and we couldn’t wait to get into the warm car and get some breakfast! I enjoyed this race as much as last year. The race course take place mostly in Epcot and there are a lot of character stops.

As much as I love doing this race with my family, I don’t know if they will be joining me for it any more.  My son will be in middle school next year and my parents probably won’t be joining us for this trip.  However, if I do Dopey one more time, I’ll get the chance to run this race.  I have a lot to think about for the upcoming year.  So we will see what happens!

Disneyland Half Marathon Medals Released

July 25, 2017

The new runDisney medals were released on Monday for the Disneyland Half Marathon weekend.  With just over a month left until the race, things are starting to come together in regards to the theme for the race.  This means I need to get my head around some costume ideas!

Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend Sponsored by Cigna Race Themes

Based on the images on each medal the themes for each race is the following:

5K – Incredibles

10k – Monsters Inc.

Half Marathon – Toy Story

Attention Dumbo Double Dare Legacy Runners!

Good news for Dumbo Double Dare legacy runners!  I read the fine print and answered a question I had been wondering for a long time.  With the change of the theme moving to Pixar, Dumbo Double Dare legacy runners will be recognized with a special medal.

Since I have never done a Pixar theme for a race before this will be fun and interesting to pull together rather quickly.  Thank God for Pinterest and Etsy!

Do you have any ideas for me?  What will you be dressed up as for these races?

2016 WDW Marathon Weekend 5K

January 16, 2016

My mom and I were walking the WDW Marathon weekend 5K together.  My mom had a knee replacement in March of 2014 and the recovery was hard.  I kept reminding her that her recovery was her marathon and that she was going to achieve it.  After her recovery and physical therapy she was able to walk.  Last Spring she participated in her first non-runDisney 5K with the Hartford Marathon Foundation O’Putnam, O’Niantic and O’Hartford races.  She walked the races but she got them done!  Then during the year she entered in other races as well.  She had a goal, she wanted to register for a runDisney 5K.  She watched me finish my first marathon four years ago and happened to talk to a woman who had a knee replacement and it inspired her to want to do a runDisney race.  She saw the energy and excitement that gets generated at runDisney events and wanted to be a part of it.

This January was her year!  She and I were going to walk the 5K and my dad was going to spectate. After a night out at Hollywood Studios the night before and a busy day with travelling we had to get into bed because we had to set our alarms for 4:00 a.m. I had cinnamon toast and tea for breakfast and was dressed and ready to leave for 5:00 a.m. We arrived around 5:15, took pictures as we entered the runners area, and I stood in line to get my picture taken with Dopey. I hadn’t had the chance to do that last year so I was glad I was taking the opportunity to do it then. It was close to 6:00 and volunteers were warning runners that they were risking a chance of getting to the start if they remained in line. Since I knew we were going to be in Corral E I wasn’t concerned about the time. I took note from my Garmin Connect account of what time we started our race in 2015 so I knew what I had for a reference to start. I tried to find Diana. She said she was going to run ahead on her own.

IMG_8541
We had decided to wear the same outfits and purchased Sparkle Athletic Skirts and ordered matching tops from Etsy that said “A Dream Is A Wish Your Heart Makes”, and wore matching Mickey ears with a white feather boa.  We got a lot of compliments on our outfits! The temperature was just right for this race. As we were turning the corner after the start and heading towards Epcot, the runners who were in corral A were already finished and were standing in their bus pick up area! I found some of my team members from the Mickey Milers and Team Shenanigans in the Corral and we hung together for a little bit and I took pictures with both them and my mom.

The first character stop was Chip and Dale. Then when we entered Epcot we took a picture with Rafiki. We got some photos with the scenery of Epcot along with the ball in the background and then went to the next character stop which was Mittens from the movie Bolt, outside the Americas. Then outside of France we got a picture with Marie the cat from Aristocats before heading to mile marker 2. After mile 2 and heading to the finish we stopped for a photo with Spaceship Earth in the background and then went towards the Land. We were lucky to get a picture with both Lilo AND Stitch there because Lilo was about to switch out with Stitch but she decided to stick around! After that there were no other character stops. So we walked towards the Nemo ride, back towards Spaceship Earth and around the corner to the Finish Line where my dad was waiting past the finish line.

IMG_8562

IMG_8573

IMG_8599

IMG_8614

IMG_8612

It was a very fun race and I am glad my mom had a great experience with it for her first runDisney race. The weather was good, we got every character along the way and we were not in any danger of not finishing the race.

After finishing the race, we went back and showered and the kids were just waking up. I wanted to go back to the Expo because I didn’t get to see all of the vendors when I was there the night before. So I went there around 11:00 and everyone else hung out at the hotel and my husband took the kids to the pool again. At the expo I ran into Jennifer Hall and talked to her for a bit and then I listened to Jeff Galloway’s seminar about best strategies to survive the Dopey Challenge. The advice I liked was when he mentioned to walk the first few miles of the half marathon and then do the walk/run for a mile. Then walk a mile, then do the walk/run for a mile. That will help keep your legs fresh for the next day.

After the Expo we were heading to Magic Kingdom for the afternoon. It was so much fun. My daughter had her first experience with roller coasters and went on Big Thunder Mountain. I was so nervous for her but she LOVED it! She couldn’t wait to do it again so we had her move to the middle of the train for her next ride. Once again, no fear and she wanted to ride in the back next!

IMG_8631

IMG_8634

IMG_8673

IMG_8702

IMG_8707

We had dinner at the Columbia Harbor House. I wanted to eat something safe the night before the 10K so I ordered a kids meal of chicken nuggets and fries. My dad ordered their pot pie, and my mouth was watering for it once I saw it! I knew that the night of the marathon that would be the meal of choice to celebrate with! After dinner we went on the Haunted Mansion and rode more Big Thunder Mountain.  We had to call it a night at that point, because I had to get to bed for the 10K the next morning. We were back to the hotel by 9:30 and I was asleep before 10:30.

After the races mom was on the hunt to get some memorabilia and an official picture with Pluto!

mompluto

It was a fun day and I was looking forward to running the 10K with PK and Katie and Diana. Stay tuned for the recap of the 10K!

Watch the video of the 5K Race:

runDisney Star Wars Dark Side Challenge Medals Released

December 4, 2015

Are you running the Inaugural Star Wars Dark Side Challenge in April?  I am!  I try to run almost every inaugural event that runDisney launches.  But then that means I have to keep running them so that I can eventually earn legacy status with their special recognition.

Today runDisney launched their medal designs for the Star Wars races in April and they look awesome!  I wish I were running the Star Wars challenge in January in California so that I could also earn the Star Wars Kessel Run Challenge Medal.  It’s all about the BLING!!!

Photo by runDisney

Photo by runDisney

There was another teaser in the email which was the announcements for the registration dates and race dates for 2016 and some for 2017.  As a fellow Mickey Miler, Eddie McCoy pointed out.  There is the caveat at the bottom of the list telling us to stay tuned for 2017 additional race dates.  Wonder what that means!

rundisneydates

Photo by runDisney

Which races will you be running in 2016 and 2017?  I will be running the Dopey Challenge, Princess Glass Slipper Challenge, Star wars Dark Side Challenge, Tinkerbell Half Marathon and the Dumbo Double Dare.  With intentions of doing Wine and Dine when registration opens.

 

runDisney Jingle Jungle 5K

November 24, 2015

This year I did what I considered to be my first runDisney 5K race during the Wine & Dine race weekend.  I participated in the Jingle Jungle 5K race Saturday morning.  I consider this my first 5K because I typically don’t sign up for 5K races during the runDisney race weekends.  The reason for that is because I usually have to fly in the day before the bigger race or the challenge races so I can’t get the time off to participate in the 5K which takes place on the day I am flying.  With this race it occurs on the same day as the half marathon.  The first 5K race that I did run was during the Dopey Challenge last year, but I considered that different because it was the Dopey Challenge.  How does that make sense?  I don’t know but it does to me!

I also wanted to participate in this race because it starts at 7:00 a.m. (one of the latest start times of a 5K race in the runDisney series), and because it runs entirely through Animal Kingdom.  In most of the runDisney races I participate in we run through Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom and ESPN Wide World of Sports.  But not as many races go through Animal Kingdom besides the Wine and Dine Half Marathon, a few miles during the full marathon and the Jingle Jingle 5K.

The morning of the race I set my alarm for 5:00 and was ready and in the car before 6:00.  Because my flight got in after the expo closed on Friday night I knew I would have to pick up my bib at the information tent at the race start.  I had to be sure I brought my license with me or else I wouldn’t be able to pick up my bib.  So when I arrived, I got a great parking spot and walked right over to the information booth and signed a waiver and picked up my bib.  Then I looked around to connect with my other racing buddies.  I spotted the Mickey Milers and their amazing costumes, said hello to them and then found Diana, Christina and Diana’s daughter Kenzie.  This was going to be Kenzie’s first 5K.

milers

IMG_5455

Since this was Diana’s first race with her daughter and they were in corral C I told them I’d stick with the Mickey Milers and hang back in corral D.  She wasn’t sure how long it would take them to get through the race and they were planning on stopping for every picture.

I went to my corral and reunited with the Mickey Milers.  The team was easy to find with Bill Taylor’s “Elf” costume!  Everyone was so creative with their costumes.  I went with my low key approach but should consider stepping it up next time if I decide to do that race again.  I also ran into Mike Rahlmann and his family in my corral so we got a picture together of course!  I always try to grab a picture with Mike when we see each other at our races.

06

Jocelyn and her daughter (left), Pam and Mallory, myself and Mike from the Be Our Guest Podcast

The race started at 7:00 and we passed the start line at 7:10.  The first section of the race went around the outside edge of the Animal Kingdom parking lot and then we entered in through the front gate.  From there we walked towards the Tree of Life, towards Everest and then back stage before we went back to the finish line.

5kmap

There were several character stops along the course and I was happy with the amount that was out there for the 5K.  There was Rafiki, Timon, Chip and Dale, Donald and Goofy, Pluto, and a few others that I didn’t snag pictures of.

It was a very very warm and humid morning so I am glad we took it slow and walked this race.  If this was any indication of how the rest of the race weekend was going to be, we were going to be up against some dangerous heat and humidity for the half marathon.  I was sure to drink a lot of water after the race so that I would be hydrated for the rest of the day.   I finished the race in a little over and hour which was perfect.  We were done by 8:15 and I had time to go back to my hotel to shower for our 10:40 Mickey Milers breakfast reservation at Kona at the Polynesian Village Resort.

I was also glad to see that starting in the last corral and walking the entire race I finished in a little over and hour and there are no sweepers at that race.  My mom is participating in her first runDisney 5K during marathon weekend and had been worried about not finishing the race in time.  There will be plenty of time to enjoy the 5K course through Epcot and even take pictures.  This race was a good way for me to estimate the pace and timing for our January race.

I really enjoyed this race and would consider doing it again.  The downside to it is that you have to wake up early for the 5K race on the same day that you will be starting the half marathon at 10:00 that same night.  If you are good about going back to your room and taking a nap then that works out great.  But like me, I enjoy the social events that take place during the short trips that I have there so I generally don’t take the time to go back to my room and rest, let alone nap.  So I ended up staying up for 24 hours straight.  But again, it’s fun, I see my friends, have a great time and I’m at Disney so sleep isn’t necessary right?!

Yup! A New Star Wars Race Is Coming to WDW Next Year!

August 30, 2015

Remember in my blog post about the new Star Wars Worlds coming I wondered what that was going to mean for the runDisney races?  Well, that question was answered just a week later when runDisney announced a new Star Wars Race coming to the East Coast in April, 2016.  It ties in perfectly with our family vacation plans for next year so I already warned my husband about it!  The races will take place April 14-17, 2016.

The first-ever Star Wars Half Marathon – Dark Side will be in Walt Disney World with a 5K, 10K and half marathon.  Also included is the Ultimate Darth Vader Challenge!  Participate in the 10K Saturday, April 16 and the half marathon, Sunday April 17 to receive the special Star Wars Dark Side Challenge Finisher Medal.  The start of the half marathon will be at Epcot and the finish will be at ESPN Wide World of Sports.  The 5K takes place in Epcot alone, the 10K begins in Epcot and ends at ESPN Wide World of Sports.  This may be a new course from races past.  I’m looking forward to seeing what the information will be regarding the course.

We vacation in Disney in May and it’s a very warm time of year.  This is going to be one of the warmer races in their calendar year; but I’m hoping since it will be starting early in the morning, like all of their races, it won’t be too bad.

 

 

This race was just announced last week and registration opens on September 22nd!  Quick turn around for such a big event!  Who will be registering for this new challenge?

 

 

12
Skip to content