Hi Jonni,
Thanks for visiting Disney Parks Moms Panel.
I'm already chEARing for you and your first
Disney Princess Half Marathon! I've run several runDisney events, and while I haven't raced a runDisney half marathon myself, my very favorite princess and wife has completed a number of runDisney half marathons at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. I'm happy to share her insights in hopes that your every mile truly is magic. First, the tips. Be comfortable with your training plan to keep the 16-minute-per-mile pace. My wife follows the run-walk-run method taught by Official runDisney Training Consultant Jeff Galloway. Be sure to stop at water stations along the race route to stay hydrated. Be sure to know where the race route theme park rest rooms are located because, well, they're simply more comfortable then roadside facilities. Next, photos. Look for photographers along the course as they'll be capturing your royal run (so SMILE!). Character photo op spots change from race to race, but you can usually count on fun meet-ups inside the parks. If you can stop for a perfect pic in front of Cinderella Castle, take the time. There are typically lots of fun photo ops with characters at the post-race area, and that's always a great way to relish your race and show off your medals. Now for the don't-miss. Don't miss the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo, an incredibly high-energy scene where you can purchase official runDisney merchandise as a cool way to celebrate your Disney racing style. The most important don't-miss, I think, is just this: don't miss having FUN! My wife will tell you that she is not a runner, she is exclusively a runDisney runner because you find yourself surrounded by a Disney-styling, fun-loving, amped-up multitude of instant best friends who celebrate your success.
Jonni, congrats on taking on your first Disney Princess Half Marathon!
Jerry