Hi Jenni from Kentucky! I sure hope you're a Cats fan:)
I was actually in Louisville for my son's soccer tournament during the Kentucky Derby Mini Marathon, and I was so mad at myself for not running it!
I do think that the Princess, or any Disney Half Marathon, would be a great entrance race for your half marathon distance. It was my first half marathon in 2009, and I think that the great entertainment and magic of Disney definitely played a roll in making it enjoyable for me. I hadn't been a runner for long, and really thought it would be my first and last distance race. I just wanted to run through that castle one time! But instead, it was an awesome experience that has made me love running. (Disney is still my favorite place to run, but I like doing other races as well)
A large percentage of runners at every Disney race are first-timers. I think the laid-back atmosphere, the fun and exciting course, and the race's friendliness towards all level of runners and run/walkers is what makes it so great for first-time half-marathoners. Plus, it's a GREAT excuse to go to Disney World:)
Be sure to check out
runDisney's official trainer, Jeff Galloway, and his training plans for the races. I use his run/walk/run interval method and it was definitely the key to me being able to run long distances!
I hope this helps and I hope you decide to sign up! Let me know if you have any other questions.