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What to Expect on a runDisney Race Day

02/5/2018

You have put in the training miles. You have packed for your Disney trip. You have prepared for race day. Now the time has come to head to the start line for your big event!

What to Expect on a runDisney Race Day

No matter if it is your first runDisney race or your fiftieth, there are sure to be some butterflies on race day. Here is a glimpse into what you can expect on a runDisney race day, no matter the race weekend or distance!

Early Wake Up Call

Since the race courses include time in the parks, it means that each race starts very early in the morning. Most races begin at 5:30 am, however runners must arrive to the starting area at least an hour prior to the start. Therefore, prepare for an early wake up call! If you are using event transportation from a Walt Disney World hotel, you will likely need to board a bus by 3:30-4:00 am, depending on the race. Make sure you get to bed early, lay out your clothes and gear, set an alarm (or two), and get excited for the morning ahead!

Lots of Fellow Runners

The popularity of runDisney races continues, which means a race can have upward of 25,000 runners! Prepare for lines at the bag security (prior to the starting area), at the port-o-potties, and character stops in particular. That being said, it is fun to experience the race with many other Disney runners! Make a friend or two as you experience each magical mile.

A Magical Send-Off

While most races have a quick starting experience, Disney makes it a show! For each corral (including the newer waves within the corrals), a fireworks display lights up the sky as runners make their way across the start line. There may even be a special character to send off your corral. Enjoy the entertainment as you prepare for your race!

What to Expect on a runDisney Race Day

Characters and Entertainment

It wouldn’t be a Disney event if there wasn’t entertainment along the way! From the starting area to the finish line, there is a lot to experience. From DJs to race announcers, marching bands to Gospel choirs, cheerleaders to your favorite characters – there will be a lot to keep you entertained as you make your way through the race course! Feel free to stop and take a photo with a character, mile marker, or a special spot within the theme parks.

On Course Support

Throughout the course, support appears in many ways. Approximately every 1.5 miles, an aid station will be available, manned by amazing volunteers offering water (and Powerade for the longer distances). There are also many medical stations staffed by medical professionals, who can help with any concerns you may have during the race.  Support also comes in the form of the wonderful spectators, who are cheering, holding fun signs, and encouraging each and every runner they see!

A Finish to Remember

The moment has come – crossing the finish line of a runDisney race! The entertainment and support continues, with photographers, race announcers, and maybe even a character or two. Enjoy the moment as you run down the finish line area and cross that magical finish line!

What to Expect on a runDisney Race Day

There is a lot to experience throughout a runDisney race, but don’t forget the most important part – enjoying every mile along the way!

 

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Filed Under: Princess Half Marathon, Races, Star Wars Half Marathon Dark Side, Walt Disney World, Walt Disney World Marathon, Wine & Dine Half Marathon

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It takes expert planning to incorporate a runDisney event into an already jam-packed family vacation. Magical Miles: The Runner’s Guide to Walt Disney World will guide you through all runDisney events, outlining the answers to questions any participant may have.

Offering advice on resorts, restaurants, race registration, packing tips, spectator information, training, race day information and much more, The Runner’s Guide to Walt Disney World gives participants peace of mind before heading into their first or fiftieth runDisney event. Having experienced runDisney events, Disney resorts and restaurants, along with in-depth research about runDisney events and logistics, the author of Runner’s Guide to Walt Disney World has every aspect of your vacation and race covered.

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