Throughout a runDisney race weekend, there are many race options to consider. While the longer distance events and challenges are usually the main goal, there are many who want to experience it all.
When you are getting ready to register for that 10K, half marathon, marathon, or challenge, you may start to think about adding on the 5K as well. After all, what’s 3.1 more miles? Here are a few things to consider as you make your decision!
Cost
While the mileage may seem “small”, the cost is not. As of 2017, the cost for the 5K is $80. Included is a cotton t-shirt and finisher medal, along with the race experience. However, if you have multiple family members or friends participating, the cost can continue to skyrocket quickly.
Opportunity for Character Photos
The 5K events are not timed, meaning that the 16 minute per mile pace is not enforced. (Note: Disney does need to get the park opened, so you may be “gently nudged” if you are toward the back.) This allows more time to take it all in, including getting character photos! Many runners will use the 5K to get some character photos and take the longer event a little more seriously. Do be aware that the lines can get quite long for the characters.
Extra Day
Adding on the 5K means that you will need to arrive in Walt Disney World or Disneyland a day earlier. Along with the race itself, you will need to pick up your race packet the day before the race. While spending another day in the parks is fantastic, be aware of the additional costs of hotel, travel, etc.
(Somewhat) Family Friendly
In years past, the 5K was a family event where any age could participate! Over the past few years, this has changed a bit, with an age requirement of 5 years (on the day of the race). That being said, it is still a great opportunity for the younger runners to get involved and experience a runDisney event like the adults! (Note: the Walt Disney World 5K in January is more difficult for families due to the number of Dopey Challenge runners.)
Extra Mileage
3.1 miles may seem small in comparison to the longer events, but it is still an additional amount of mileage to consider! Not only is it the race itself, but waiting in the corrals, walking back to the bus/vehicle, and of course, the day in the park after the race.
Lots of Time in a Park
The 5K events are some of the few races that take place almost entirely inside a Disney theme park! Not only that, but you get to experience the dawn of the day during the race. It’s an experience you will definitely want to enjoy at least once!
Another Early Morning
In all honesty, sometimes the hardest part of a runDisney race is the early morning. If you are planning on running multiple races during the weekend, the ultimate factor on adding the 5K may be including another early morning to the mix. The 5K races tend to start a little later, but the Walt Disney World events will require transit time on the bus (meaning another earlier-than-normal wake up call).
It’s not a decision to be taken lightly and may be different for each individual. Regardless of the race (or races) you register for and participate in, there are many magical miles ahead!
Andreas Devlin says
April 3, 2017 at 11:23 am5k was sold out instantly… I’m traveling from Norway and signed up for 10k. When I wanted to sign up for the 5k run, it was sold out – same day as registration was opened. Big disappointment!
Magical Miles says
April 3, 2017 at 11:27 amI am so sorry to hear that! With the 5K being the smallest in terms of participants, unfortunately it tends to fill quickly (especially in January when the Dopey runners take up a good chunk of the field).