See Disney World in a Different Way: Try a RunDisney Race!

Are you a Disney fan looking for a whole new way to experience Disney World? Then you should consider signing up for one of the many runDisney events that take place at Walt Disney World every year.

Wine and Dine Half MarathonWine and Dine Half Marathon

Whether you are an avid runner, a jogger or have yet to run a mile, Disney offers a variety of events that will provide you with an unforgettable experience filled with that Disney magic we all know and love.

Beginners Welcome!
RunDisney races are great for beginning runners and first time racers. They have different start corrals according to your expected finishing time so that you won't be getting trampled over by people who are significantly faster than you at the beginning of the race (whew!).

The atmosphere at runDisney events makes it extremely "first timer" friendly. It is more about having fun and simply crossing the finish line than anything else. Also, the courses are relatively flat and easy to run on, so you don't have to be worried about running a course full of steep hills.

Running With Character
Running a race in a costume is no easy feat, but it is another great aspect of runDisney events. And while costumes are by no means required, they are a really fun aspect of the races at Disney.

Even if you aren't wearing one it is fun to spot all the different costumes as you race. Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, or one of many other Disney characters could be running right beside you! Well... sort of! And you just might find some inspiration for your next race!

Have Fun All the Way
Disney is known for its world class entertainment, and runDisney events are no exception. From the fireworks that send you off at the start of the race to the gospel choir that sings you through that last half mile, they work to keep you entertained and enjoying your experience the whole time.

They have characters, marching bands, and DJs to keep you going throughout the course. And perhaps the best part about the races is getting to run through places like Cinderella's castle at Magic Kingdom and the World Showcase at Epcot.

View of Magic Kingdom for a Disney Race ParticipantView of Magic Kingdom for a Disney Race Participant

Takeaways
Another reason to consider a runDisney event is that it gives you access to one of the best souvenirs you can get at Disney: a runDisney medal. Each medal is designed specifically for that year's race. It will be something you show your friends and other Disney fanatics proudly because you earned it!

Where Do I Sign?
Now all that you have to do is decide which race to sign up for:

Are you an adventure junkie? The Expedition Everest Challenge at Animal Kingdom is for you! Do you love food and wine? The Wine and Dine Half Marathon in October, with its after party focused on the Epcot Food & Wine Festival, is perfect! Are you a princess at heart? The Disney Princess Half Marathon in February is your race! Are you crazy enough to want to run 39.3 miles in two days? Try the Goofy "Race and a Half" Challenge during the Walt Disney Marathon Weekend in January!

Whatever race you choose you can rest assured that it will be a magical experience that will leave you wanting more! Head over to RunDisney.com for details! Remember to sign up early; many of the races fill up fast!

Have you caught the Disney running bug? Let us know your experiences in the comments below!

Beth D. wrote on Wed, 05/04/2011 - 14:40:

Beth D.'s picture

I am training for the January half. I have never done one before, so I haven't officially signed up just yet, but once I have a little more confidence in my training progress, I will!

Kasey O'Connor wrote on Wed, 05/04/2011 - 22:00:

Kasey O'Connor's picture

That's exciting! I might be doing that half too :) I have to say that actually signing up gets you a little more focused on your training (or at least for me that was the case).

Rachel W. wrote on Tue, 05/10/2011 - 00:07:

Rachel W.'s picture

Way to go! I can't encourage you both enough. Signing up is definitely the best first step. It keeps you accountable and gives you a long term goal to train up to. I did the January half last year and will be doing the Wine & Dine half this year. The RunDisney series is a great way to stay in shape and have a blast! I promise, you will feel SO accomplished!

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