Hi Robyn,
Welcome to planDisney and thank you so much for asking us a question!
I don’t want to get too sentimental but participating in my first
runDisney event in 2017 truly changed the course of my life. I was never much of a runner (or an athlete, for that matter) before that race and I used to make jokes about how I only ran if I was being chased or if I was running towards nachos… The
training programs developed by runDisney with Jeff Galloway introduced me to the run-walk-run (interval) method and empowered me to run my race at my pace. A runDisney race truly is a unique event, one where Every Mile is Magic, and I’m thrilled to hear that you’re thinking of joining the Disney running family!
While I typically stay at a
Disney Resorts Collection hotel during runDisney event weekends, I’ve stayed “off-site” for some of them, so I can confirm that you don’t have to stay “on-site” to participate. However, if you haven’t participated in a runDisney race before, I strongly recommend that you stay in “on property” to really maximize and simplify your experience.
First, complimentary
Disney Bus Transportation takes you from your hotel directly both to the Race expo (where you can pick up your bib and purchase some cute runDisney race merchandise) AND to the races themselves quickly and efficiently. Efficiency is critical with a 5 am race start, so having access to reliable transportation is key. Second, most on property hotels have special food offerings for runners, including a “grab and go” food box available early in the morning, which is also a big help on race days. Finally, often many of the Disney Resorts Collection hotels add an extra layer of Disney Magic to the running experience, either with special photo opportunities, runner support (like stretching programs, runner yoga) and even character opportunities.
Runner tip: While you may be able to show up shortly before the scheduled start time for local races, this is NOT the case for a runDisney race. I recommend that you arrive at least 90 minutes before your race’s scheduled start time or that you take one of the first buses to the start line from your Disney hotel. There are loads of character opportunities and food offerings when you arrive, even in the wee hours of the morning. Plus, for some races, there can be a bit of a walk to your start corrals, so you’ll want to have plenty of time to arrive and get settled.
I hope my answer helps you plan a truly magical “run-cation” Robyn! Please don’t hesitate to come back and see us if you have any other questions.
Have a Magical Day,
Lynne