Are you planning to run Disney’s Princess Half Marathon? The race is one of the signature events hosted by runDisney that also includes the Walt Disney World Marathon, Disneyland Half Marathon and Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon. I have had the pleasure of running this race, and it was great fun. While nothing could be better than running a race at the happiest place on earth, here are a few tips to ensure that your experience is even more enjoyable.
Early Start– The race starts at 5:45 a.m. and the
cutoff time for runners to be in the starting corrals is 5:00 a.m. If you are staying at one of the Disney
hotels, shuttles begin leaving at 3:00 a.m. Though the idea of eating at or
before 3 a.m. might be hard to stomach, you should definitely have something to
eat to perform your best in race. Since
hotel dining options will probably not be available at such an early hour, be
sure to make the necessary provisions for your early morning, pre-run meal.
Expo – The Fit for a Princess Expo is
overflowing with vendors, workshops and more.
There are also fairy godmothers from the Bippity Boppity Boutique there
sprinkling fairy dust help turn you into a Cinderella ready for the ball, or in
this case, the race.
dolled up, so do. You’ll find runners in
tutus, sparkly running skirts and tiaras.
Even the guys who run the Princess Half Marathon get into it and dress
up, sporting their tutus with pride and a sense of humor.
Street U.S.A., past Epcot, through Cinderella’s castle and all along the way,
you will run into Disney’s wonderful cast of characters. This is not the race to seek a PR, instead
embrace every PO (photo opportunity) along the way. How often do you have Belle or Snow White or
Jack Sparrow cheering, or jeering you from the sidelines? Keep in mind that while you may not be aiming
for a PR, runners must maintain a 16-minute per mile pace throughout the race
or risk being picked up and transported to the finish.
the Magic Kingdom and finished what may possibly be the most fun you’ll ever
have during a race, you’ll receive what may possibly be the most spectacular
finisher’s medal. In previous years, the
medal is shaped like a tiara, encrusted with faux jewels.
