Hi Christine!
Congratulations to you and your daughter for
starting to run! What a wonderful and healthy thing for you guys to do
together. I know you will make many wonderful memories out on the
roads!
I have to admit that my love for Disney World is what led
me into the sport of distance running. I had competed in a few local
5K's before, but the 2009 Princess Half Marathon was my first distance
race, and I was instantly addicted!
For a mother/daughter running
team, I really think the
Princess Half Marathon would be a great first
long-distance race. The 2013 Princess Half Marathon is at the end of
February, so that may be a little soon. I would suggest finding
some local 5K's in the next few months. Then, when you are comfortable
with that distance, sign up for some 10K's. (10K's are usually easier
to find in summer months) This will have you training all through next
year, and then you will start adding distance and work your way toward
the 2014 Disney Princess Half Marathon. With a full year of training
and several race day experiences, you will be less nervous about the
half marathon and be able to enjoy it more.
The Princess Half is
more fun than I can describe. It's mostly women, and you will see more
tiaras, tutus, glitter, sparkles, and excitement than you thought
possible! It's my favorite race to do with my girlfriends, and in fact,
there are nearly 20 of us signed up for the one next year.
If you haven't already, be sure to check out
Jeff Galloway's training guide. He is Disney's offical trainer, and he advocates a run/walk/run method that a lot of runners use. I use it and love it!
Please let me know if you have any other questions!