princesshalf

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.

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!

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?

Treadmill Running

January 2, 2018 By Lindy 3 Comments

Does the outside temperature influence whether you run indoors or outdoors?

The treadmill and I have become besties since it feels as if we’re living in the North Pole, not Pennsylvania. When it’s too cold outside for me (below 40 – I know, I know…I’m such a wuss), I run indoors, where every mile I run feels like 5. Last long slow run was 6.5 miles on Sunday, and I kid you not, it felt awful, even while watching a movie on Netflix. But running indoors works for me when working 12.5 hour days. Being out of the house for close to 14 hours with the commute, running at 9 pm in my house simply works for me. At least I’m doing the best I can; I’m giving 110%.

Training for the Princess Half has been going okay. Some weeks I am unable to run 4 days/week, so I’m XT with cycling classes on my Peloton bike. My cycling performance has gotten a lot better, and I’m hoping it will help my running performance as well. Yesterday, my IT band was screaming at me, angry, for pushing on the bike so hard for a personal record, but I got it 🙂

Previous PR was 281 two days ago. Today, 307!

I don’t anticipate a personal record on this half marathon, and I’m ready for that since it’s my first run post-injury/recovery. My goal is to finish strong, uninjured, and best of all, have a great time with my friends.

I’m excited about traveling to a warmer climate, although most Floridians right now will disagree since temps this week have dropped into the 30’s. I still don’t have a running costume made as I don’t have an idea of what I want to dress up as. I’ve run as Cinderella, Merida, Remy, Aurora, Minnie, Belle…I’m thinking Steamboat Willie since he’s my favorite, but I am not completely sure. Toss some ideas at me if you have them.

Hope everyone is keeping warm this lovely and frigid January.

Training: runDisney’s Princess Half Marathon

November 8, 2017 By Lindy 4 Comments

Nothing excites me more than going back to where my love for running Disney started: runDisney’s Princess Half Marathon.

2013 run Disney’s Princess Half Marathon

Disney’s Princess Half Marathon was my first half marathon, actually my first race ever, in 2013. This race will always occupy a special place in my heart. For years, thoughts lingered in my mind that I will never be able to run a mile, let alone a half marathon. It took lots of discipline and a few bouts of crying to get this done. Fearing that people would judge me for being a slow runner, or for taking walking breaks, I trained solely on a treadmill. Little did I know that using the run/walk method by Jeff Galloway would take this new runner to cross a finish line.

Running changed my life. Through running, I have discovered the limitless potential my mind and body have. In the process, I have formed wonderful friendships that are sure to last a lifetime.

This will be my 15th half marathon. I’ve not run in exactly a year, my last race being Disney’s Wine and Dine Half Marathon in 2016. My body is still in progress, and I’m positive it will make a full recovery, but for now, slow wins the race.

The training plan I’m using is from the My ASICS run app on my iPhone to build up miles/endurance. It starts out really slow, which is what my body needs at the moment.

Monday: Run 1 mile at 15:22 min/mi. – Done.
Tuesday: Rest
Wednesday: Run 1 mile at 15:24 min/mi.
Thursday: Run 1 mile at 15:24 min/mi.
Friday: Run 1 mile at 15:24 min/mi.
Saturday: Rest
Sunday: Run 2 miles at 15:24 min/mi.

I got on the treadmill for that 1 mile run and it felt so long, and it was really hard trying not to go faster. I felt tightness on my hip after that one mile run, not sure if it was from the run itself or the fact that I cycled on my Peloton bike for 45 minutes earlier in the day. Trust me when I tell you that after these injuries, I am freaking nervous to run again but I want it BAD.

Have any of you dealt with running injuries that set you back? Any races you’re currently training for?

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 — Disney’s Princess Half 2013

Disneyland as Merida — 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.

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!

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

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

Disney’s Princess Half Marathon/Glass Slipper Challenge Recap

April 1, 2014 By Lindy Leave a Comment

Hi everyone,

I’m finally getting around to posting my recap from the 2014 Disney’s Princess Half Marathon / Glass Slipper Challenge. Life’s been crazy busy!

Another day of waking up at 2:30 AM. I have to give a lot of credit to those people who completed the Dopey Challenge this year – I am not an early morning person at all and can’t even imagine getting up four days in a row at 2-3 AM.

I didn’t have anything planned as far as running gear goes and while one should never try anything new on race day, I did just that, but it’s because I stuck with companies I love and use their products frequently and I know how they fit. My usual two stops at the Expo: Raw Threads and Sparkle Skirts.

Our friends were staying at Disney’s Boardwalk and were hosting a baby shower for one of our fellow runners and we carb loaded there – so much food: spaghetti, garlic bread and cake! Lots of yummy carbs to burn off in the morning 🙂 and hydrated with Nuun (great way to get your electrolytes in).

Sunday morning, we were on the bus before 3 AM. The cafe had these half marathon packs for $10, which included a bagel, peanut butter, banana, raisins, fresh blueberries and an energy bar. I took that with me and once at the parking lot in Epcot, I just sat on the ground and fueled up and hydrated a bit more. Lines for potty were long (as usual) and about 20 minutes to even get in the door!

Here’s a pic of me waiting at the Corral:

Minnie Mouse Waiting Before Entering Corral

I was in Corral G. This year, to avoid crowdedness, runDisney made corrals smaller, and it really helped. Weather was so humid and the fog so dense you couldn’t see past 1/4 mile, at least.

The corrals crossed the start line very quickly – I think they got to G in about 25 minutes or so.

Here we are, finally reached the start line:

Disney’s Princess Half Marathon Start Line

Off we were! It was still very dark out and upon reaching mile 1, just as last year’s Princess Half, were Captain Jack Sparrow and the Pirates of the Caribbean. This year I didn’t stop at any characters; the lines were super long!

We came across parts of the course which narrowed significantly and many runners were forced to either walk or run on the grass. There were more volunteers than usual, which was great. I stopped at almost every water station since the humidity was just awful.

Entering Magic Kingdom area (notice the foggy sky!)

One thing that I enjoy more than seeing characters are the local bands and the community coming together to cheer and support the runners. This was more prevalent during Tinker Bell and it made me enjoy the run a lot more.

This is a band playing on the course. They were so energetic and so talented!

Finally made it to Cinderella’s Castle in Magic Kingdom and thankfully this time the crowd passing through the castle thinned out. Photographers at the castle were dismissing people fairly quickly, hence this cheesy picture I was unable to retake.

Disney’s Princess Half Marathon at Cinderella’s Castle

Made one stop in Tomorrowland for the bathrooms and on my way out of MK!

Passed a lot of characters and still didn’t stop. My only stop would’ve been Stitch and when I passed that mile marker, it was only Lilo there. I was so upset! Stitch may have been on a brief break. Elsa and Anna from Frozen, forget it! At least 20 people in line for a pic there.

Mile 12 and I knew to start looking for Peggy Sue. Peggy Sue is a huge supporter and comes out to support runners at Disney races and at some local races. I missed her last year and when I entered the TTC, I spotted her wheelchair, I knew I had to stop. She gave me a hug, some Twizzlers and we took a pic. I love seeing her and it’s her wonderful spirit that gives us that motivation to finish the last mile. Love her!

Disney’s Princess Half with Peggy Sue at Disney’s TTC

It was a great race and I was so happy seeing my friend at the finish line who was volunteering (she handed me my pretty Pink Coast to Coast medal). Went back to the resort, showered, took a nap for an hour and off to the parks we go! Celebrated with some Macarons from France in Epcot, and a huge dinner at ‘Ohana, complete with a Lapu Lapu 🙂

Celebrating in Magic Kingdom after Disney’s Glass Slipper Challenge

If there’s one thing I learned from running Disney is to just go and have a blast. Don’t worry about your time (but maintain pace to avoid getting swept), stop and take pictures with the characters, with your friends, spectators, whoever. Or you’ll end up regretting not doing this and that like myself.

The 2015 Run Disney Princess Half Marathon registration opens July 15, 2014. It tends to sell out fairly quickly, so be sure to sign up for email alerts. Don’t miss out on the fun! It’s walker-friendly, beginners friendly, so it’s a great race for your first half.

Lindy xo