I highly encourage anyone thinking of participating in a Disney running event to give it a try. They are well-organized runs, full of fun and energy, and they take place in the greatest place on earth.
I'm not a natural born runner, but I became really interested in running a few years ago after hearing discussions on podcasts about Disney marathon weekend. In early 2008, I began to slowly train for the 2009 half-marathon. As much as I trained, even on the day of the half-marathon, I wasn't certain I would be able to complete the race. However, to my surprise it was an easy run (relatively speaking), and I was buoyed by the spectators, marching bands, cheerleaders, and Disney characters cheering the runners on as we ran by them on the course. I loved the event so much I returned to run it again in 2010.
You can find out more about the inaugural Disney Wine & Dine races
here. Race weekend will feature a half-marathon, a family 5K run and kids races, all taking place on October 2, 2010, except for the kids races, which will be held on October 1st. If you are not interested in running the full half-marathon, the race can divided by two runners in a relay. The Wine & Dine half-marathon will feature a brand new course running through 3 Disney Parks and will take place at 10:00 pm. In addition to the thrill and fun of running in the race, runners receive a finisher's medal and goody bag. Runners will have to stop by the official Health and Fitness Expo at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex to pick up their race number and race packet prior to the race. The Expo will feature seminars on running, nutrition, and training as well as have various running merchandise available for purchase.
Good luck on the race.