Run Disney

Race Recap: 2018 Disney’s Princess Half Marathon

March 27, 2018 By Lindy 1 Comment

Disney’s Princess half marathon is a wonderful experience for novice and experienced runners, and those of us in between. It is the perfect girlfriend getaway vacation, filled with the magic of Disney.

Disney’s Princess Half Marathon was the race I first ran back in 2013 and the race which sparked my love for running. A few weeks ago, I went down for the 10th Anniversary of run Disney’s Princess half, but also my 5th running anniversary, where I met up with my best running girlfriends for a weekend of eating, drinking, and running Disney. I booked the hotel rather late, and all that was available was All-Star Movies. While it isn’t my favorite resort, I’ll take staying in the parks rather than outside. It’s so much easier to get around and not have to rent a car or Uber.

Unless there are items I am interested in buying at the expo, I typically avoid going to the expo on day one. The crowds are insane everywhere! Once you arrive at ESPN Wide World of Sports (there are buses running frequently from all Disney World resorts), there are two stops: one is to pick up your bib and race shirt; the other building has the expo merchants. This year, I noticed they had a building dedicated to carrying all runDisney merchandise.

I’ve been extremely busy and had no time to put together a race costume and most likely will not have one for Star Wars, which is a bummer. I looked around at the expo and did see a few items that would work well for a costume but being that I didn’t go on day one to the expo (wasn’t planning on buying a costume), everything in my size was sold out. My friend was coming down a day later, so I asked her to pick up an Eagles hat at the airport, and I quickly threw an outfit together – a dark green Lululemon top and black skirt. Combined with the hat, I decided I would run as an Eagles Princess; fitting since they just won the Super Bowl. Go Eagles!!

I spoke with Jeff Galloway, Olympian and creator of the run-walk-run injury free program and asked for his advice. If you’re ever at the expo, please pay him a visit. He is truly the most genuine and nice person and gives great advice. I explained to him that I’ve had my share of injuries in the past 2 years and that my last run was 6.5 miles on Christmas Eve. His suggestion was to run 15 seconds and walk 30 seconds.

With Olympian Jeff Galloway

Race morning came and my friend and I had some fruit, coffee and some carbs. The resort had free coffee on race morning, which was really nice. Disney suggests runners taking bus transportation to the start line board buses no later than 3:30 AM, and monorail passengers board no later than 4:00 AM. Since my friend missed the expo, we had to stop at runner relations in the morning to pick up her bib, so we boarded the bus at 3:00 AM. The weather was a bit cool, but it was expected to be warmer than usual for February, and warnings were placed everywhere reminding people to hydrate and dress appropriately for the warm temperatures.

Corrals were going off every 5 minutes or so. Race announcers Carissa and Rudy were great at keeping the crowds entertained and informed when their corral would take off. My corral took off 45 minutes after the elites/A corral. My Gymboss timer set for the run/walk ratios that Jeff Galloway suggested and started run/walk after a quick 5 minute warm up.

I was feeling great and decided to increase the run intervals to 30 seconds (bad idea). I felt my hamstrings start to burn a bit, and before it got worse, I stopped at the first medical tent and rubbed Biofreeze on my hammies. Once that kicked in, I was good, until my right foot started to ache. I’ve never had issues with my feet while running, so this struck me as odd and concerning. I stopped at the second medical tent briefly, sat down and massaged my foot for a minute and was back on my way with no other issues, thank God!

Magic Kingdom

I was doing great time-wise. Aside from those two medical tent stops, I stopped to use a real bathroom (wait was over 10 minutes but SO worth it), because let’s face it, no one wants to use a port-a-potty unless deemed necessary. Stopped for a photo op shortly after mile 11, because Jack. Enough said!

Run Like you left the crock pot on -“This is Us”

It sure wasn’t my fastest half time, but it wasn’t my slowest either. I’m extremely proud of myself for finishing despite the fact that I didn’t train for it. I really have not been motivated, and the fact that winter doesn’t seem to want to leave doesn’t help either.

I have two races coming up so I am training for those. They are: Star Wars half and the Broad Street Run, America’s largest 10-miler and one of my favorite races ever. Stay tuned.

P.S. What’s on your race calendar for 2018?

Oh, hi there! It’s been a while.

May 8, 2017 By Lindy 7 Comments

It’s been a while, friends, and I’ve missed being here talking to you about my running or traveling adventures. Yesterday, I found myself at work, crying while watching the live broadcast of the Broad Street Run on the TV in the break room. This is why.

Countless visits to the sports medicine doctor, multiple X-Rays, acupuncture, chiropractor visits and physical therapy has left me in a state of frustration. I’m seeing a new physical therapist and for once, I am experiencing positive changes, although it isn’t without experiencing both physical and emotional pain. Janet, my physical therapist, cleared me for running and has suggested a goal for me to run a 5K in 3 months. This makes me beyond excited.

The pain I experienced while running was on my left hip and IT band, with some minor pain on the right knee. MRI showed normal hip scan, however, it showed chronic bilateral hamstring tendonitis. This explained the hamstring pain I felt whenever I went to my beloved Flywheel classes, and it was always when off the saddle. I stopped going to Flywheel and stopped running and giving up both pained me immensely.

But I’m really stubborn…I mean, REALLY stubborn.

Since I was cleared to run, I deleted a 5K and added another 5K. I also added a half marathon: Disney’s Princess Half in February. Not only it is the 10th Anniversary of the half, but my 5th running anniversary. That’s my girls trip, and I cannot wait!
Back to the stubbornness part. Not only did I sign up for a half marathon, I bought a Peloton bike.

This bike is beyond amazeballs! I fell in love with spinning years ago and now that I’m able to do this from the comfort of my own home is fantastic. I’m taking it easy and concentrating on endurance classes, which focus on heart rate training and ensuring to spend less time off the saddle. Hopefully that will be helpful when it comes to training for races.

So, where have I been?

In February, I went on a last minute trip to Disney World. Last month, had a blast from taking an 8-day trip to Puerto Rico with my sister. This year, I have a few trips planned – Montréal, Seattle, DC and back to WDW in September for a week. I’ve also been working, a lot, and currently studying for my neonatal nurse certification (RNC-NIC)

On a flight to San Juan 🙂

I just want to take a moment to thank all of you who reached out to me on Instagram and Twitter as well as the emails you’ve sent just to check in.

It means a lot to me, so thank you! <3

Have a wonderful Monday!

Galloway Blogger Tips | Training Plan

September 16, 2015 By Lindy Leave a Comment

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Here are some useful tips from Jeff Galloway on the importance of having a training plan.

THE TRAINING PLAN

WHY SHOULD I HAVE A TRAINING PLAN? When using a proven strategy, a runner gains control over fatigue while improving motivation. Those who follow the right training plan, for the individual, tend to improve more, with less injury risk.

WOULD BEGINNERS BENEFIT MORE FROM A PLAN Unfortunately, most beginners “run as they feel” or follow conflicting advice. This leads to confusion and more aches and pains. The right schedule will systematically increase the type of running needed for a goal, with strategic rest for rebuilding.

KEY TRAINING ELEMENTS:

1) A longer run builds endurance,

2) A hilly run builds strength,

3) Scenic or social runs insert fun and keep you coming back for more.

WHAT IS ADDED TO A PLAN IF THE GOAL IS TO RUN FASTER? The right training plan will gradually increase the speed repetitions needed for the individual goal. Easier days and rest days must be inserted before and after speed workouts. To avoid injury, the pace and the increase must be realistic for the individual.

EVERY OTHER DAY! Most runners—especially beginners—run best when they run every other day. This allows for the “weak links” to heal. The very slow long run is usually on the weekend, when there is more time available. Hills and fun days can be run on the short runs during the week (for example, Tuesday and Thursday)

SHOULD I EXERCISE ON NON-RUNNING DAYS? While you don’t have to exert yourself on non running days to improve your running, exercise will energize your mind, and improve your attitude and vitality—while burning some fat. So I recommend any exercise that does not fatigue the calf muscle, such as recreational walking.DOES VARIETY HELP? Changing things a bit can improve motivation. You don’t have to change the “mission” on specific days, but alternating some of the courses or running with different groups can make each day more interesting.

WHAT ARE VARIOUS MISSIONS, FOR VARIOUS DAYS? Each type of run bestows a different benefit. Hill runs build strength. Drills that work on cadence, gentle acceleration and gliding will improve your running form. Long runs produce stamina and endurance.

WHAT SHOULD I DO THE DAY BEFORE AND THE DAY AFTER LONG OR FASTER RUNS? Take it easy on these days. Do little or no exercise, don’t over-eat, drink 8 glasses of water/sports drinks, and focus on how you will enjoy the next run.

SHOULD I SKIP THE REST DAYS—TO IMPROVE MORE QUICKLY. Not Recommended! It is during the days off from running that the running body rebuilds and improves. While some runners can get away with running short and slow runs on rest days for a while, these “junk miles” can compromise recovery and lead to injuries.

IF I DON’T LIKE A WORKOUT CAN I SUBSTITUTE? Following a consistent plan is more likely to lead to success and improve motivation. Those who pick various elements from different schedules experience more burnout and injury.

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When I first started running, I ran by “feel”, not having an actual plan in place. While this allowed me to finish a race, I wasn’t finishing strong and caused a lot of injury to my body (ankle sprains, continuous IT band issues). Having a training plan along with a running coach, I lowered my half marathon time from 3:04 to 2:37 and I’m feeling much stronger every day. I’m currently training for the Philadelphia Half Marathon in November.

Do you run with a training plan?

2015 Disneyland Half Marathon/Dumbo Double Dare

September 15, 2015 By Lindy Leave a Comment

Little over a week ago, I flew out to sunny California to participate in this year’s Dumbo Double Dare Challenge at Disneyland. A few weeks ago I didn’t know I’d still be going – IT Band syndrome and family issues halted both training and planning. I’m really thankful things work themselves out because I truly needed to get away.

My friend Michelle and I arrived on Thursday, but we didn’t get to the Expo until Friday morning. To my surprise, the Expo was not opening until noon. Lines were everywhere! I don’t recall the Expo opening that late during other race weekends, but I could be wrong. You were allowed to line up downstairs at bib pickup though, and because of the heat, they opened at 11:30.

Entrance into Disneyland Half Expo

Bib Pickup was quick and easy and there was someone going up and down the waiting line checking waivers and identifications, expediting the process, which helped tremendously. Picked up Disneyland Park tickets from GET Sports (I’ve used them every time and they’re amazing), and proceeded upstairs to pick up the race packet at the Expo. The Expo was crowded, lines were huge, so I just grabbed some Sport Beans since they didn’t have any Honey Stingers, and a few Sparkly Soul bands and left.

Disneyland 10K – This was my first 10K in Disneyland, and I was excited because everyone I ran into said that the 10K in Disneyland is their favorite course. The ART buses were picking up at my hotel at 3:57 and 4:27 AM on Saturday morning. I always like to get on the earlier buses just in case. Met up with a few friends at the Disneyland Hotel and walked over to the corrals. I was on C.

This 10K wasn’t overly crowded. The morning was a bit chilly, so I kept my sweater on for most of the race.

Here’s a course map of the 10K:

Disneyland 10K course map

The Disneyland® 10K starts on the streets of Anaheim, passing through the Grand Plaza of the Anaheim Convention Center before entering Cars Land at Disney California Adventure® Park. Continue into Disneyland Park, down Main Street, U.S.A. before completing the final stretch of the course through the Downtown Disney® District and arriving at the finish line next to the Disneyland® Hotel. Source: runDisney

At the start of the Disneyland 10K:

I enjoyed this course a lot. I was conserving a lot of energy for Sunday’s Half Marathon, therefore I made it a goal to just go out and enjoy the course and not worry about time. Loved running through both parks, which looked absolutely beautiful at dawn.

Running through the Tiny Castle

10K Finish

Disneyland Half Marathon was held on Sunday, September 6th. I set my alarm for 3:00 since the bus pickup was at 3:45. I was already awake, worried as usual, but there was doubt plaguing my mind that I could run this. I kept thinking about what my coach said, and she was really worried about me running the entire weekend since 1) I was undertrained and my longest run was 8 miles, and 2) I was just coming back from IT Band issues. So, I hit snooze and in my mind, decided I was going to sleep in and not run. But I’m so damn stubborn….

The last time I ran this race was in 2013, when temps soared to the high 90’s that week, which made me dehydrated and ill. I was a bit nervous about that happening again. Thankfully, while it did get warm fairly quick, it was not as bad as it was then.

I was in D this year due to a 2:37 half PR. The corrals were extremely crowded and people were hopping the fence to get in front. I think they should consider spacing the corrals out like they do for Princess. Corrals went from A-G for the Disneyland Half, with anyone who placed under 2:35 in A-C, everyone else from D-G. This was a problem for me because although I am not a super fast runner, I’m not slow either, but I was stuck with slower runners and walkers and during the first few miles, had to walk because I had nowhere to go.

Disneyland Half Course

Once the course opened up, I was able to run. It seemed the whole community of Anaheim was out that morning. Loved running through the vintage cars, the dancers and cheerleaders, and although the sun was up and beaming early on, it didn’t get uncomfortably hot. The folks at MousePlanet were so kind to have cold, fresh orange slices, and candy, as well as wet sponges on the course. They were uplifting, and I’m really thankful for that pick-me-up!

Disneyland Half Marathon

Once I could run, I ran 3:1 intervals and stopped at every hydration station, always remembering to thank the volunteers and spectators for coming out. When I ran this in 2013, I walked up the hills, and this year, I ran. I’m so happy with the progress I’ve made, and thankful for Coach Kristy who makes the impossible, possible.

At the finish, you got your Disneyland Half Medal and if you were taking part in the Dumbo Double Dare Challenge, you were directed to a station where your bib number was looked up and if it matched up with the pic they took at the Expo, you received your Challenge medal.

DDD Finish

Overall, the energy was amazing, and aside from the overly crowded corrals and first few miles, I enjoyed myself and had a wonderful time. Running in Disney is just magical 🙂

runDisney Dumbo Double Dare Challenge Bling

Lindy x

Disneyland Paris Half Marathon

February 22, 2015 By Lindy Leave a Comment

It’s Official!

Source: Disneyland Paris

runDisney announced during this morning’s Princess Half Marathon that there will be a half marathon scheduled for September 2016 at Disneyland Paris.

This is exciting news indeed! It’s too early for me to even consider it, but I’d love to go to Paris again! Paris is a gorgeous, charming city full of excitement, and rich in art and history. I’ve visited in 2005 and just had the most amazing time and ate the most amazing food in the world. Seriously, I just crave going back.

Click on the image above to be transferred to Disneyland Paris where you can sign up for their mailing list and receive updates including when registration will open.

Will you be running the Disneyland Paris Half Marathon in 2016?

Motivation and Training Tips from Jeff Galloway

February 9, 2015 By Lindy 1 Comment

Happy News!!

I have been chosen as a Jeff Galloway blogger! I will be sharing running tips from Olympic runner Jeff Galloway with you.

In case you don’t know who Jeff Galloway is, he’s a former US Olympian and founder of the Run Walk Run method that has allowed thousands to achieve their running goals. He is also the official training consultant for runDisney races.

This week’s tips are on motivation and training, two huge factors when it comes to running.

Lindy with Jeff Galloway

My first encounter with Jeff was in 2013 at the Disneyland Half Marathon. I had been chosen to attend the Disneyland Half Meetup, a wonderful opportunity to meet with Jeff Galloway and other celebrities (Sean Astin, Joey Fatone, to name a few!) and run across Magic Kingdom, followed by breakfast and a Q&A session. I was surprised at how approachable Jeff was – he gave me a hug, we posed for a pic and I told him that my goal was to complete a marathon. The problem? I was lacking motivation.

Mental Training for Runners – Jeff Galloway

Jeff asked me what my last race finish time was and gave me pointers on how to train for my marathon.

Here are this week’s Galloway tips on motivation and training:

When paced correctly, running delivers the best attitude boost you can get. Sustain this by pacing yourself gently during the first mile or three.

A well-paced run enhances vitality for the rest of the day. Start each run at least 30 seconds a mile slower than you will run at the end.

If you have a Run Walk Run strategy that is right for you on that day, it’s possible to feel good after every run-even the marathon.

Running is the best stress reliever I’ve found. Research shows that running tends to activate the conscious brain which over-rides the emotional subconscious brain and manages the negative and anxiety hormones during and after the run.

Research shows that as runners get faster, their stride length shortens. A quicker cadence is the mechanical key to faster running.

The finishing of a run that is longer than you’ve run in the last 3 weeks can bestow a sense of achievement that is unique and empowering-due to positive brain circuits that are turned on.

You can’t run a long run too slowly or take too many walk breaks. You’ll get the same endurance based upon the distance covered.

Using the Jeff Galloway run-walk method, I have been able to complete 8 half marathons and a full marathon.

QOTD: Have you used the Galloway run walk run method to train and/or on your races?

Lindy x

Tips for running runDisney’s Princess Half Marathon

January 14, 2015 By Lindy 2 Comments

Disney’s Princess Half Marathon is a magical race and one that holds a special place in my heart. It was my first race (yes, you never forget your first!) and while I’m saddened not to be running this year, I thought I’d share some tips that can help make this event for you even more magical.

1. Arrive Early

Disney’s Fit for a Princess Expo – Try to arrive at the expo on the first day if you want a chance to purchase official runDisney race merchandise as it is known to sell out fairly quickly. Disney Parks Blog usually updates prior to race some of the items offered for sale. If you’re interested in any items, I suggest to go to that merchandise tent FIRST, then visit the other vendors. Trust me when I tell you I missed out on so many things I wanted.

Races – All Walt Disney World Resorts including Swan and Dolphin, and Shades of Green, are host resorts, meaning that transportation to and from Disney’s Fit for a Princess Expo will be provided as well as transportation to the race start and back to the resort from the finish line. Buses start around 3 AM, and please, please arrive early. I was on the buses no later than 3:30 AM, and while race start isn’t until 5:30 AM, some bus drivers have gotten lost or stuck in traffic. There’s nothing worse than thinking you’re going to miss start time when you already have the race nervousness going. Leave early, take your pre-race meal with you (most resorts have marathon boxes with bagels, fruits, etc.) and find a spot to sit and stretch, eat your meal, use the port-o-potty, take pics with friends, etc. If you purchased a race retreat, you’ll have access to a private potty, and eat breakfast under a heated tent. I did this during my first Princess Half and it was so worth it!

2. Plan on running in costume

Running 13.1 or 19.3 miles through Walt Disney World in costume makes it much more fun. My first Princess I ran in Cinderella costume (she’s my favorite princess) and I’ve run as Minnie, Merida, Remy from Ratatouille (for Wine and Dine Half), and Tinker Bell. Look at Pinterest for some ideas! It’s so much fun planning and making costumes, but be sure to run in it before race time. You don’t want to find during the race that the costume chafes your skin, rides up, etc. That way you’ll be prepared and ready to go.

Disney’s Princess Half 2013

Disneyland Half Marathon 2013

3. Take your phone/camera for pictures

Disney knows how to put on a race. From fireworks after every corral starts, to character stops throughout, make the most of your race and take pictures. Photographers take pictures at character stops, including the beautiful Cinderella Castle stop and VoluntEARS can also take pictures with your phone. Don’t forget to use an armband, and if you’re placing the phone in your pocket, don’t forget to put it inside of a sandwich baggie so that sweat or rain (hope not!), it doesn’t get damaged.

With Lilo and Stitch

4. Run Disney for fun

This one is up to you, but I’ve runDisney multiple times and learned to run Disney primarily for fun, not time. There are many reasons that bring you to the start line, so get out there and enjoy it. The entire weekend, the 5K, Enchanted 10K and the Princess Half Marathon is beyond magical. Run with friends, or run solo, but make the best of it. Stop at character stops, jump high in front of the Castle and just have a blast. The spectators are wonderful, and the voluntEARS are amazing.

5. Wear your medals with pride around the parks.

You’ve earned it! I wear mine to the parks the day after and take pictures throughout the parks with them. Love when people as well as cast members congratulate you on your accomplishments. It’s really motivating and uplifting!

An excited Princess 🙂

I’ll be excitedly cheering for you all from the City of Brotherly Love, as well as following all your tweets and Instagram posts.

Have a magical race!

Lindy x

runDisney’s Wine and Dine Half Marathon 2014 Recap

November 19, 2014 By Lindy 1 Comment

runDisney’s Wine and Dine Half Marathon was a race that I’ll never forget. Has it replaced my favorite runDisney race (Tinker Bell)?

It was the first Wine and Dine Half for me. It’s a night race and I had to switch my thinking and planning. I’m used to carb-loading the evening before, waking up at 4 AM, or in runDisney’s case, 2 AM, etc.

Flew out Friday to Orlando and stayed at the Magical Disney’s Polynesian Resort. Just the thought of having Tonga Toast (Kona Cafe), Dole Whip (Pineapple Lanai) and Stitch (‘Ohana) in the same resort made me feel giddy. I’m a kid at heart! 🙂

Went to the Expo on Friday afternoon at ESPN Wide World of Sports and to my surprise it wasn’t overly crowded. I didn’t have to wait in line for anything – packet pickup, race shirt, or even the runDisney Merchandise area. Considering that all of the runDisney Expos I have attended have been agonizing, hours-long events, I was more than delighted to be in and out.

If you liked runDisney on Instagram, you got one of these:

runDisney Wine and Dine

Since I had to switch planning, we planned on sleeping in Saturday and going to Epcot for lunch at Tutto Italia to carb-load, followed by a nap until it was time to take the bus to the race start. My friend Becky and I headed to the buses and hung out at the corrals for a while before separating – I was in G, she was in K.

runDisney Wine and Dine Half – Waiting before entering corral

It started to rain around 9:30 PM and I was just hoping it would stop. It was 63 degrees at start time and drizzling. Corrals crossed the start five minutes apart; I think the G corral crossed around 10:35 PM or so. We exited ESPN Wide World of Sports and made a left out of the complex into Osceola Parkway and run there for about 3.5 miles before entering Disney’s Animal Kingdom. In the parking lot before entering AK, there were two characters from Disney’s Electrical Parade – the turtle and the bumblebee, all lit up and glowing.

Animal Kingdom was beautiful. I stopped once to use a real bathroom and to warm up a bit. AK was dark, with paths so narrow you were forced to walk at times. I remember turning the corner and seeing the Tree of Life all lit up. I didn’t take pictures because I didn’t want my phone to get wet, but the sight was gorgeous. We ran past Expedition Everest and then back out on the highway. AK is one of my favorite Disney Parks, and I truly enjoyed how magical it was to run through it. Took a picture with Pluto on my way out.

Back on the highway, we ran opposite direction in which we entered AK. The rain got heavier, yet we saw some folks in the middle of the highway, cheering with signs for us. That was amazing! The spectators make such a huge impact on us runners. My friend Becky, when she finished, she said that there were times when she felt she couldn’t go on, but it was those spectators yelling out her name, encouraging her that got her to the finish line.

We ran another 4 lonely miles in the dark on the highway before entering Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The rain wouldn’t let up. I kept hearing people yell, “puddle”, but it just didn’t matter anymore. My clothes were soaked and my feet were wet and cold. I’m pretty sure I stepped on at least a dozen puddles. My headphones kept sliding out of my ear canal.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios – I believe we ran through the whole park. We passed Toy Story Mania and Woody and Buzz were out but the lines were too long. Once you got into the Streets of America, it was all lit with holiday lights, music and even snow, which took my breath away. Seriously, the most beautiful scene in a race, EVER.

Exited DHS and ran through the DHS/Epcot connector. Into Boardwalk (where it was a bit slippery!), past Yacht and Beach Club, when I found the best spectator ever, Peggy Sue, sitting in her wheelchair in the rain, with her bag of Starbursts and Twizzlers, God bless her! I just started bawling; she truly made my day!!

runDisney Wine Dine Half at Boardwalk with Peggy Sue

Entered Epcot, where we ran past the United Kingdom and Canada, into the main corridor, past Spaceship Earth (you awesome spectators were loud, thank you!!!) to the finish. I love how you can’t see the finish line but it’s so close you can feel/hear it. There was a beautiful light display right before you made a left turn into the finish line.

Heard the announcer call my name and that got me pumped up. High-fived Mickey at the finish line, grabbed my medal and determined that having finished this race meant much more to me than any other race. The dark course, the rain and the cold didn’t stop me, even when I was heavily tempted to get inside the sweeping buses that idled on the highway.

I was less than pleased when finishing the race, cold and shivering, we had to wait over 20 minutes for gear pickup. The voluntEARS were awesome and trying to expedite the process but that didn’t really help. The changing tents were crowded, with another long line to enter, so I skipped it. Here’s when the situation got even more annoying – to enter Epcot, you had to have your bag checked, again! Yet another crowd of long lines for bag check and another to check wrist bands for the finish line party. If you got a drink at the finish from your voucher, you had to dispose of it before entering Epcot. This made a lot of sense to me…sigh.

My friend Jillian was waiting in front of Soarin’ and I changed in a bathroom there and went into Soarin’. There was no line/no wait for Soarin’ and that made me really happy. One girl who’d finished the race was waiting to get on the ride when she passed out. Nurse instinct was to run over and help her. I think she was dehydrated and hypoglycemic. I hope she ended up ok.

The finish line party would have been awesome had it not been for how miserable the weather was. My left ankle was swollen, with pain radiating to my shin. I had tostones with mayo-ketchup in Puerto Rico in Epcot and waited for Becky, who was limping from the blisters on her feet. No food and drinks around the world for us as planned – ugh!

Did it replace my favorite Disney race, Tinker Bell? Maybe. I loved Tinker Bell because it was a smaller race, but Wine and Dine was smaller as well. I’d say that out of all the runDisney races, Wine and Dine Half’s course was my ultimate favorite. I think that I would’ve enjoyed the race much more if it wasn’t for the weather (nobody’s fault, really, and besides Florida hadn’t had rain in close to a month!) Needless to say, I’ve decided that in California, Tinker Bell is my favorite runDisney race and in Florida, Wine and Dine.

I must admit, that the most rewarding highlight of the race was seeing my friend Becky finish. This was her first half marathon, and she finished in the cold rain and with blisters on her feet. I loved hearing how much I’ve empowered her to get started with running and I couldn’t be prouder. It’s rewarding to learn how much of an impact you can make in someone’s life on a daily basis. I don’t blog too much and I know not too many people read this space, but I hope that even if it’s one person who’s life I’ve changed, that I continue to have the ability and the means to do that.

Celebratory Post-Race Meal: Cinderella’s Royal Table Lunch

Post-race celebratory brunch at Cinderella’s Royal Table

With a swollen left ankle (me) and painful foot blisters (Becky) we can say, we did it! See you next year, Disney!

P.S. Thank you to Jillian for being such a good supporter, to the voluntEARS and spectators for making this race magical.

Getting Ready for Run Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon

October 20, 2014 By Lindy Leave a Comment

Happy Monday, friends!

Just 3 weeks until Run Disney’s Wine and Dine Half Marathon weekend and I couldn’t be more excited.

For starters, it’s an anniversary year (5th!) and the finisher’s medal is sweet:

Second, the race is held during Epcot International Wine and Dine Festival, a foodie’s dream! Taste your way around the world sampling food and drinks. The finish line party ticket is included in the race registration, and finishers can enjoy Epcot until the wee hours in the morning. Spectators can buy a ticket to the finish line party and join you 🙂

Third, my costume is coming together (I’ll post pics as soon as I’m finished) and I’m seriously in love with my custom-made tutu from the fabulous Lesley from Greater Fitness, which I took for a spin last night on a 4-mile run, along with my new top from Lululemon. Still need compression sleeves and fuel to purchase and I’ll be all set. It’s my last runDisney race for a while, so I need to make it worthwhile.

Training is going great aside from trying to squeeze in runs on days that I am working. I have to be up for work at 5:15 AM and I refuse to wake up any earlier to run, even if it’s indoors. If I run after work (8:30 or after), I’m wide awake and can’t sleep. Last night I ran 4 miles at 7 PM, went to bed by 10 and was wide awake at midnight. Early afternoon runs work best for me, though I know it’s not always doable. I hate when my training takes a hit. Goal is to find a trainer I can work with for 2015 races. Bucks County Half Marathon was my PR half and my goal is to beat that by 15 minutes.

Anyway, back to runDisney’s Wine and Dine Half, have you run this before? Will you be running it? I’ve never done a night race before, but I can tell you I’m really excited 🙂

Registration Day for Run Disney Princess Half Marathon and Glass Slipper Challenge 2015

July 15, 2014 By Lindy Leave a Comment

In just a few hours, general registration will open for the 2015 Run Disney Princess Half Marathon and Glass Slipper Challenge. If you’ve always wanted to do this run, don’t wait to sign up. This year’s (2014) Glass Slipper Challenge sold in just a few hours!

Here’s what you need to know:

Sign up for an account on Active.com and if signing up multiple runners for the races, have all their information ready to go and have your credit card handy.
The Princess 5K and Kids Races may have a ‘Frozen’ theme. (Rumors heard on the Twitterverse!)
During the Princess Half Marathon weekend, a Castaway Cay challenge has been added.

From the Run Disney site:

“On Monday, when weekend is over, set sail on board the Disney Dream for a 4-night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral. You’ll sail to Disney Castaway Cay for your 5K run along sandy white beaches, past swaying palms and sparkling turquoise lagoons, with magical Disney moments to surprise you along the way. It’s a runner’s paradise in a spectacular island oasis. Best of all, as a runDisney guest on board the Disney Dream, you’ll receive VIP treatment with exciting activities, special merchandise offerings, and featured menu items.”

In order to complete the Glass Slipper Challenge, one must register for the Challenge itself. If the Glass Slipper Challenge sells out, registering separately for the Enchanted 10K and the Princess Half and finishing both races does not count as the Glass Slipper Challenge and you will not receive the special Glass Slipper Challenge medal. Please keep that in mind when registering!
All Walt Disney World hotels are host hotels for the Princess Half Marathon Weekend. This means that transportation to and from Epcot is available and will transport runners to the start line.
Be patient! If you can’t get in immediately at noon on July 15, 2014, keep trying.

It is an amazing fun-filled, magical weekend. It was my first half marathon and will forever hold a special place in my heart. It was an empowering experience. It’s a great race for beginners, too!

Registration opens at noon today!!! Now go plan your running costume! 🙂

Recap of my Run Disney Princess Half Marathon (2013)

Recap of my Run Disney Princess Half Marathon 2014 and Glass Slipper Challenge

See you at the races!

QOTD: Will you be registering for the Princess Half Marathon race weekend?

Lindy x