Race Report: 2016 Disneyland 5k

We're home from our California vacation (which started at the Disneyland Half Marathon weekend) and it's time to start reliving our favorite race weekend. In case you didn't know, this weekend is very special as it was our first runDisney race back in 2010. Our whole family has been at this race weekend in some form, and it's a non-negotiable on our race calendar annually. This year was the first year that Katie and Chris didn't join us, but it was for VERY good reason! We have TWO new members of Disney Runs in the Family!!! I'll let them introduce you to our tiniest DRITF bloggers, but for now, I'll just say that they were greatly missed. I cannot wait to head to Disney with all three little ones soon!

The face you make when you oversleep on race morning!

Now, back to that 5k thing. Well, I guess a digression is the perfect way to start this blog post because it's very telling of that race. Do you have nightmares before big races? I do! One that is recurring is that I oversleep and miss the start of the race. I then have to play catch up and it just goes on from there. Well...guess what? On Friday morning, my dreams came true! Wait...what? They say dreams come true at Disney, right? Well, after shutting off my alarm in a sleep-deprived haze (you know, the kind that comes along with traveling with an infant who can't quite get it together in a new place in a new time zone), I never reset the alarm. Come to wake up at 5:21, 9 minutes before the start of the race. Seeing that number on the clock wakes you up really fast! Luckily I was pretty organized and knew exactly where all my running stuff was. I threw on my clothes and went running out the door, leaving Bill, Robby, and my mom sleeping in the dark. No food, grabbed a water, and ran to the start. I missed the whole pre-show, the national anthem, and as I heard, "30 seconds to the start of the 5k" I thought I had made good time...until they continued with "corral B, are you ready?" OH! I had actually missed the start too! Thank God this was only the 5k!

I made it right in time to line up in the back of corral C. I wasn't planning on running fast, but I had wanted to stop for photos and really be able to document the race. Too bad I didn't have time to get any of that together. Believe it or not, this was my first DL 5k. Because of the expense of the races, I don't always register for the 5ks. I know the course changed a little from previous years, but I couldn't tell you exactly how. Actually, I was in such a daze that I can't tell you much about the course. One change that was great was you run through the castle. I know this had previously been a rarity in shorter races. I'm glad they made that change. It's one of the most magical moments of the race, and it's nice that all the participants get to experience this now.

Cars Land Selfie!

Another big change was the medal. It was a medal medal, not a rubber medallion like in years past. Of course, you heard people complaining about that too. You just can't make everyone happy! I do appreciate that they at least are putting a bit more noticeable changes into the race since the price tag is so steep.

And...done!

The course is mainly through the parks and backstage areas. They had the Country Bears out (it was the race theme) plus there was country music playing throughout the course. I'm sure someone else could tell you more about the music. Country music just isn't in my knowledge-base! It was a lot of fun, despite the rocky start. Disney always does it right, and next time, I'll be sure to set more than one alarm!

The new bling-ier bling

Did you run the 5k? Do you enjoy shorter or longer distances at Disney?

It's Time to Register for the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend!

Tomorrow is the big day for all of you "regular" folks...me included...who do not have annual passes or DVC. It's time to warm up the credit cards, get all computers going, and register for the Disneyland Half Marathon weekend!

This year will be Bill's and my 4th Dumbo Double Dare and, of course, our newest addition will be joining in on the fun in his very first runDisney event: the Diaper Dash. This puts HUGE pressure on me to get all of us registered! I have enough anxiety registering just the two of us, heck, even just me, but 3? THREE registrations! I've got to be on my A-game. There's no doubt that Dumbo will continue to sell out fast. I would also expect the 10k and 5k to be quick sellouts, with kids races not far behind. The half--who knows? It seems as if the half marathons have been having some trouble selling out lately, so we'll see how it goes tomorrow.

2015 Disneyland Half Marathon

So how do you guarantee yourself a spot? Here are some great tips:
1. Have your Active.com account already pulled up and logged in on one tab.
2. Have runDisney open on another tab.
3. Be logged into Facebook and Twitter, following runDisney (in case the website crashes, which it always seems to do) and be on the lookout for a link.
4. Have your credit card ready to go.
5. Do this on a reliable computer--I find mobile devices too slow and unreliable!

You'll be put in a queue to register, so don't exit that queue or you risk losing your spot "in line". Finally, I also have some back up travel partners ready to go in case I can't get into the races I want. We've used a bunch of different travel partners in the past, and I can say with pretty good confidence that as long as they are listed on the runDisney site, you should be fine.

Dumbo is our legacy race, so the stress is always on to get registered for this one. Of course, this year, the pressure is also on for the Diaper Dash, since there's only a 6 month window when he can run. My mom was quick to point out that if we don't get in this time, we can always make another trip to WDW for either Wine and Dine or Marathon Weekend. Twist my arm, right?!?!

For now, though, my fingers are crossed and I will just follow my own advice, hoping to get all registered tomorrow! Any other tips to share? Will you be running this year?

Disneyland Half Cigna Blogger Meetup

I had the pleasure of being invited to a blogger event by Cigna, one of the sponsors of the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend. It was so much fun to meet other blogger friends and reconnect with those I've been at events with before.  runDisney people are the best!!!

We met at Napa Rose in the Grand Californian Hotel at 10 and were greeted with chef hats and a warm welcome from Disney and Cigna.  We talked a little about health eating and the importance of spreading the word of health through what we do (hellloooo...this seriously IS my life's calling!). We were split into 4 groups and got to attend 4 cooking demonstrations by some of Disney's best chefs. Someday I have great hopes of working with runDisney on running training or fitness in some aspect...clearly I have NO hope of working with Disney in a kitchen! They made it look so easy!

We started with a delicious chicken with pesto, veggies, and farrow. Yep, I'd never heard of it either, but it was delicious. Chef Chris from Disney's Banquet Dept flew threw the recipe, even butchering a whole chicken in minutes. It would have easily taken an hour for me, but it's definitely inspiring to see someone so passionate about the creative side of cooking!

We followed up with the dessert station where we tried tons of delicious fruits I had never heard of, including cotton candy grapes (what???). They actually tasted like cotton candy. The main ingredient was peaches, of course. The ONE thing I can't even touch because I'm allergic. They did look delicious, and we also learned to make a yummy crumble, which I plan on using for a different cobbler. Don't worry, I had a big spoonful of the crumble to make up for the lack of peaches in my tummy!

Mmmmm...dessert!

Next up was smoothies. We did a pre-workout and a post-workout. They were simple and tasty. I made sure to take meticulous notes, so I'll be sharing both of those in a separate post so you can make them too! I guess this is my level of chef-status...throwing things in a blender!

Finally, we headed to the salad station, where we learned how to make our own dressing, as well as a salad filled with berries, Delish! I definitely need to make my own salad dressing--it not only is healthier, but saves money too. Forget all those chemicals they put in the bottled junk at the store!

Of course, after we finished, the man of the hour appeared: Chef Mickey! Nothing like an appearance by the big cheese to get a bunch of Disney nuts excited. We took some pictures, then sat to eat all of the yummy things we'd been staring at for over an hour. This preggo lady was ready to EAT!!! Not that I had any doubts, but each dish was more delicious than the last. It was a great meal, and a great start to my Disneyland weekend.

I have to give a HUGE THANK YOU to Cigna for hosting such a fun event! I had a blast, and I hope there are more in the future. See you at the next race!

And finally...we EAT!

Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend Preview

Our FIRST DL Half in 2010

We are in the home stretch on our way to the 10th Anniversary Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend!!!  EEK!!!  We are ALL super excited to be running again this year.  My first DL Half was during the 5th anniversary, and I have a feeling I will see many more anniversaries of this race!  It's been our annual tradition since.

So, to get you ready with all you need to know...here we GO!

Expo

Chris & Katie's first half in 2011

The expo is open Thursday (10-8), Friday (12-8), & Saturday (9-4).  Remember, you have to actually go to the expo to pick up your own bib, using your photo ID and waiver.  Unfortunately, you can no longer pick up a bib for a friend or family member.  Yes, it's inconvenient, but I'm seeing this more and more at large races across the country.  If you forget your waiver, no worries--they will have printers available at the expo.  Another fun part of the expo is the speaker series, though a schedule hasn't been released yet.  I'm hoping for a good schedule for Friday, since we don't have park tickets that day.  Of course, the MOST fun part of the expo is shopping!  runDisney has great merchandise, but don't overlook some of the other vendors.  I love finding new favorite running items at the expo, and often there are some great sales!  Remember too, if you are unsure of what corral you are in prior to arriving, your corral information for each race will be listed on your bib.

Anniversary Party
On Thursday night, some lucky runners will be attending the 10th Anniversary Party (my mom is one of them...jealous!).  They will be treated to special characters, parade viewing, and of course, shorter lines for some great rides.  I would imagine this event to be similar to the annual passholder event we attended back in April.  It was a blast, and well worth the extra caffeine to stay up until midnight!

Disneyland 5k
Early Friday morning, runners will be taking off for 3.1 miles of magic through the Disneyland parks. I love these shorter races at Disneyland especially because of how much time you get in the parks. Be sure to get there early enough to use the bathroom and get into your corrals.  You definitely won't need to line up quite as early as you do for the half, but leave yourself time.  I also love to get up early if I'm not running to cheer on the runners--there are always super cute kids running and awesome costumes for this race!

First Dumbo Double Dare
Photo Credit: Sparkle Athletic

Disneyland 10k
Saturday morning, our family will be heading out to take on the Disneyland 10k.  I love this race!  So much park time!  It starts promptly at 5:30 am, so I'd suggest being down in the staging area no later than 5 so you can get into your corrals without having to rush.  Also, if you are worried about being swept, get to your corral early and make your way to the front.  Sweeping starts after the last person has crossed the start line, so any extra minutes will be worth it.

Pasta Party
While we aren't going this year, we have attended the Pasta Party in the past, and it was SUPER fun! If you're going, you are going to want to get there early so you can not only eat, but also take pictures with characters!  When we went, all of the characters were dressed in their sports clothes. We got great pictures. It is a buffet, so come hungry, but be forewarned:  When we went, I ate so much (way too much) and it really effected me during the half the next day.  Remember the #1 rule of racing: don't do anything different on race day (or the night before).  Be careful about what you eat, but of course, ENJOY!

Disneyland Half Marathon
It's the main event!  Prep for an early morning--we usually leave our hotel around 4 (though we'll be at the Disneyland Hotel this year, so we get to sleep in a bit).  Aim to arrive around 4:30, especially if you plan to check a bag and/or have a nervous (or pregnant) bladder and will need to use the bathroom...multiple times.  Yes, I have a ritual.  You will notice many more runners for this event than in the previous two races.  The corrals get packed, so get there early if you want to move up to the front.  I'll also go on my rant here: Go to your assigned corral or move back.  You can't move up. Don't try it, and don't get mad at the volunteers who are enforcing this rule!  I always see runners get rude with the volunteers--it's not necessary and it makes us look bad as a group.

LOVE the coast to coast!

Once the fireworks go off, your in for a few miles in the parks, then you're out on the streets of Anaheim.  Be careful!  There are a few areas with train tracks, poorly paved roads, and of course that slim path right before you hit Anaheim Stadium.  Be aware of your surroundings and please don't run more than 2 abreast, especially in tight spaces.  The weather is looking a little warm, so also be sure to hydrate early and hydrate often.  Don't be ashamed to slow down in the heat too!
When you hit the finish line, it's time to celebrate.  If you are a Dumbo runner, don't forget to grab that medal, and of course, get that Coast to Coast too!  Celebrate, take pictures, and relish in this HUGE accomplishment.

I'm getting butterflies in my stomach just thinking about the fun ahead of us this weekend! PLEASE...if you see us in the parks, come say hi!  We've got AWESOME costumes planned for the races, so hopefully we'll stand out.  It's time to get packing.  We'll see ya real soon!!!

Race Report: 2014 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend--Disneyland 5k

It was Friday, August 29, 2014, the morning of the Disneyland 5k and I awoke extra early. I was excited to run my first "solo (without my daughter pushing me)" race along with 5,999 other runners.  My alarm was set for 3:30 am, but I was wide awake by 3:10 (still on East Coast time).

I donned my modified Lilo outfit, had a quick bagel thin and peanut butter, and was ready to go. Chris and Katie (coincidently) were staying at the same hotel and graciously offered to meet me around 4:15 to walk me to the race (our extended West Coast family is really awesome!)  They left to meet Aly and Bill and I set off for Corral A. (As I waited for the start, I rec'd a text telling me where the 4 of them would be chEARing.)



Time passed quickly and you could feel the excitement in the air.  Carissa and Rudy kept the crowd going, along with Lilo and Stitch.  Then a surfer came out and led a "surfer themed" warmup.  The next thing you knew, it was time to go with a burst of confetti!

This was my first race at Disneyland. When we entered California Adventure just before mile 1, I found myself slowing down and "looking" It was the first time I saw Cars Land and because of my love of Disney, I was kind of distracted.   Then, I remembered why I was there!  

Course on RunKeeper

My RunKeeper app was set to a walk/run pace and I surprised myself by maintaining this through almost the entire race.  The miles went by quickly.  I'm sure this was because most of the miles were in the park which was really fun.  It was way more humid than I thought it was going to be so I took advantage of both water stops.  

As I was passing under the monorail near the spot where my family was supposed to be, I spotted them holding up a sign and cheering me on. I think that gave me the final push I needed to finish strong.

I received my medal from one of the many wonderful volunteers (Thank you, volunteers!) and went to the tents to meet my family. 

My regret:  I didn't take any pictures on the course!  I was so concerned about "getting it done", I never stopped.

My accomplishment:  I PR'd my 5K!    After looking at my stats, I know I will do fine in my first 10K in May.   Tinkerbell here I come!

My runDisney Love Letter

My heart is so full right now after an amazing Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend.  Somewhere in the middle of the half marathon, I started to come up with this blog idea.  Don’t worry…specific race reports are coming soon, but I wanted to start with a few love notes.

Dear Expo,

Last year, you were so disappointing, but wow, what a difference a year makes.  Thanks for being controlled, stocked with merchandise, and full of space to walk around.  Thank you for listening to the fans and making the adjustments needed to make the expo a fun experience.

Dear New Balance,

Thanks for finally figuring out a process that works.  I registered and you texted be back right away.  I had a return time, and when I got there, there was plenty of help to get me the shoes I wanted. 

Dear race organizers,

Thanks for splitting up the 5k and 10k.  We were able to cheer on my mom, then she cheered for us.  There was no mistaking where to line up or who was going where.  Three early days were tough, but the smoothness was worth the early alarm.  Heck…thanks for the smoothness with everything—this weekend went off without a hitch for us!
 

Dear volunteers,

Thanks again for all you do to keep us safe, hydrated, fed, and happy before, during, and after our races.  You are always great!  A special thanks to those who were diligently checking bibs at the starting corrals.  I’m sorry that some runners were rude to you, so I wanted to give you a special shout out.  It’s not an easy job, and I really appreciate that my corral was full of runners that actually were supposed to be there. 

Dear fellow runners,

Wow…thanks for the support!  I wish I could personally thank each and every runner that ran past me giving me a high-five or a few words of encouragement.  I really, truly didn’t think I’d make it.  I mean, it wasn’t the smartest move running a race 6 weeks-post knee surgery.  Every person saying “great job” or “keep it up” got me one step closer to the finish.  I can honestly say I couldn’t do it without the support of everyone on the course.

Dear family (you know…those other Disney Runs in the Family folks & the family supporting from home),

Thanks for being there!  Thanks for pushing me in a wheelchair so I could save my legs.  Thanks for cheering.  Thanks for running too and making this a family affair.  Thanks for finding a table at Trader Sam’s.  I gotta say…by blood and by marriage, I have a pretty amazing family!

And finally…

Dear Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend,

Thank you for bringing me back to life!  Being injured and having surgery can really get you down.  I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t feeling a bit depressed and hopeless through some of the last 3 months.  What I’ve been through is in no way even close to being the worst that could happen, and I’ve seen people be much braver through much worse.  For this little blip of time, though, for me, it’s been hard.  I finally feel one huge step closer to my normal.  And for that…I’ve got lots of LOVE!

Hope all the runners had as great of an experience as I did!  I can’t wait to share more details in the race reports!

It's the Final Countdown

Dodododo….dododododo…dodododo… (You know you were singing it too).  It’s the final countdown to the 2014 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend.  Holy cow!  How did that happen?!?!?!  My summer, which for the past 5 years has been filled with training for this race weekend, was a total disappointment, filled with injury, surgery, weight gain, and lack of any preparation.  I don’t even have my costumes ready—and that’s not like me at all!  Usually at this time I’m going stir crazy because I’m tapering and have a ton of extra time.  But nope, not this year!  This year I’m not prepared at all and heck, what’s there really to taper from?  I haven’t trained a lick! 

At this point, the question has to be asked, “Should I even run this race?”  Yes, I use the term “run” loosely, because I know 100% that I won’t be running most of the race.  There are a few reasons I don’t want to DNS (did not start) this race: it’s my Coast to Coast to go with my amazing Dopey Challenge, Dumbo is supposed to be my Legacy race, and ALL of Disney Runs in the Family will be running.  Considering we live in 3 different states, that’s pretty rare!  You see…I can talk myself into “needing” to do this race in a heartbeat. 

 

The honest truth is I’m not even sure I can finish.  I’m a stubborn person, but I don’t know if that’ll be enough to get me through. 

I’m nervous, not packed, and in no way ready to go.  My costumes aren’t even finished.  This is not like me at all, but hey, I’m sure once we get there it will be fine (right…tell me it’ll be fine…).  So, for those of you traveling, safe travels.  I hope I get to meet some new friends.  Be sure to connect with us through Twitter (@DisneyRunFamily) and Instagram (DisneyRunsInTheFamily) to keep up with all that’s going on this weekend.  And please, if you see me around, come say HI!  I’ll be the SLOW one on the course! 

Throwback Thursday: 2013 runDisney Meet-Up/Tweet-Up

Less than a month to go!  I love reading race reports from previous years to get my psyched up for this year's race.  Here's another Throwback Thursday for you.  If you missed the others, check them out HERE & HERE & HERE & HERE.  This one's a little different; it's about the meet-up, which runDisney has stopped offering (insert hysterical crying, whining, pouting, etc here).  I was very lucky to get into the last west coast meet-up.  runDisney, if you're listening, bring it back!  This was such a truly magical way to start the race weekend!

Original Post: September 7, 2013-Disneyland Half Meet-Up/Tweet-Up

Holy cow I'm tired!  It's been one week since the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend and I'm still in recovery mode.  Of course, it doesn't help that this weekend coincides with the first week students are back at school, my office person retired, we hired 14 new employees...but I digress...

Here is my recap of the first part of my weekend: the runDisney Meet-Up/Tweet-Up.

Photo credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

This was the first time I got in!  I was so stinkin' excited I barely slept the night before.  It made the 4:30 wake-up call a little hard to take, but the excitement replaced my tiredness (well, except in the pictures...I look VERY tired in all of my pictures!). 

Photo credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

We met bright and early under the Sorcerer's Hat at the Disneyland Hotel.  This definitely would have been the perfect trip to stay at the Disneyland Hotel, but let's face it, with all these races coming up, who can afford it?!?!?!  I was greeted by smiling faces from runDisney, giving me my new tech shirt and swag bag.  Guess I should have taken a picture...  I'm still getting this blogging thing down...
The swag was great!  We got full-size lotion and body wash from H2O, pins from ABC from the new series Once Upon a Time in Wonderland, a park-hopper ticket, buttons, and the bag was a great reusable shopping bag.  I met some fun people from a few Facebook groups I belong to, and before we knew it, we were off and heading to Downtown Disney.

Photo credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

Photo credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

Our first stop was right across the street to be formally greeted by the runDisney staff and introduced to all the celebs joining us (hellllooooo--Joey Fatone, Ali Vincent, Sean Astin...yes, please!).  We were also introduced to all the runDisney staff & consultants.  I have to say, this is one group of happy people!  New Balance then presented their Good Form Clinic, abbreviated.  They talked about how to correct your form to be the most efficient runner.  I actually found myself thinking back to those tips throughout the many runs of the weekend--thank you New Balance!

Photo credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

Ali Vincent is a doll!

Quickly, we were in for our first surprise: the White Rabbit came out of nowhere!  We were late, we were late!  Then off we went on our run.  I chose the "slow" group--figured what was the point in killing myself now.  I had another 19.3 to run after this!  That gave me plenty of time for a few pictures.  And the first moment of--damn, I should have brought a good camera, or a least not had my crappy phone with me.

My 16 year old self just died!

Jeff Galloway led our group in a 30/30 run-walk-run.  I know people do it, but I would seriously never make 13.1 miles going 30/30...I felt like a crazy person--run--no walk--no run--no walk...lol :)

We got to run through Disneyland and California Adventure.  Okay, I know some people on the run are used to this and all, but afterwards, I couldn't find myself in any pictures because I was floating away, mesmerized that I was in Disneyland practically all alone!  (p.s. If I ever get to go again, I will run in the front to get some good shots!)

runDisney planned some other fun surprises--photos with Alice and a spin on the teacups, of course with no line!

We ended the run in California Adventure where we had breakfast and were treated to great speakers.  I have to give it to them--all the celebs and runDisney folks were so inspiring and all gave great bits of advice. 

Here's the rest of the morning in photos:

Photo credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

Photo credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

Photo credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

Photo credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

Photo credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

Photo credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

Photo credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

Photo credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

Photo credit: Jimmy DeFlippo

THANK YOU runDisney for the most magical start to a race weekend I've ever had!  I hope to be back--I'll start stalking the blogs now for January! 

Bibs & Corrals for the 2014 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend

Yesterday, runDisney officially released the waivers (containing bib numbers) and the corral chart.  What does that mean for you?  Well, you will want to log on using your name and birthday to find and print your waiver.  This will not only give you a chance to read it and know what corral you are starting in, but it will save you time at the Expo.  When you already have your waiver printed, you go straight to package pickup.  Go here to print your waiver: 

http://trackshack.com/disneysports/w14dl/verify.php

Remember, you will need a waiver for every event you are participaing in!  In the past that even included ChEAR Squad and the pasta party (though those are not online yet; check back soon).  Dumbo Double Dare counts as one event, even though it's two races.

At the bottom of the waiver, you will see a bib number.  For the Half Marathon and Dumbo, you can find where that lands you in the starting corrals.  Here are the charts:

Okay...but what does this mean?  Well, this should help you in a few ways.  First, you will know ahead of time what group to be looking for when it comes to the morning of the race.  Hey...it's early...you might not even be awake yet.  Any help you can get, right?  

Second, and more importantly, it gives you a better idea of how much time you will have before the start of the race.  Corral A?  You are going to want to get to your corral around 5:15.  Corral J, you have plenty of time (45 minutes-1 hour) after the official race start before you are off and running.  Remember, though, if you are checking bags, they all need to be checked no later than 5:15, regardless of your corral.  Now, if it were me and I was in corral J, I would still be in the staging area by 5:15 to join in on the festivities.  Disney always does it up BIG!  That's why we love running Disney.  

If this year follows recent suite, there will be about 3-5 minutes between earlier, smaller corrals.  5-10 minutes between the latter corrals.  This allows some spreading out on the course, but there will still be some congested parts.

Final note for those running for the first time or those who are very nervous about their time and finishing under the 16 min/mile pace (ya know...like, let's say, someone who just had knee surgery 11 days ago maybe...).  Try to line up at the front of your corral if you are toward the back.  Every little bit of buffer time helps.  The "balloon ladies" who keep the pace are the last to cross the start line.  They then maintain a steady 16 min/mile pace.  All you need to do is stay ahead of the balloon ladies and you're good.

So...where are YOU?!?!?  Will I see you in Corral B?  The rest of the family is spread out in other corrals too.  If you see us (okay...I can only speak for myself, so if you see ME), say hello!!!  I'd love to chat during the race.  Now go print those waivers and put them in a safe spot!!!

Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend FAQs

2010--our first race!

One month!  Here we are, just one month away from the West Coast race that started it all: the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend.  For me and the hubby, this will be our 5th Disneyland Half Marathon and 2nd Dumbo Double Dare.  Chris and Katie have run twice, and Joann, she's our first-timer for this trip.  With this much experience under our running shoes, we thought we'd take your questions on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.  (By the way... do you follow us on those platforms?  Get to it!). So... here we go!  What you're all dying to know!

1.  Where do runners meet prior to entering their corrals?
     The start is on Disneyland Drive between Magic Way and Paradise Way, right outside the Disneyland Hotel.  Trust me, when you arrive there will be no missing the hoards of people headed to the start.  You must line up according to the corral on your bib.  Usually the first few corrals are lined up right in front of the start line, but later corrals wind around.  Just follow the signs and you'll be good.  runDisney policy states that you cannot move up to a higher corral, however you can move back if you want to run with a friend. 

2.  What time do runners usually arrive?
     All of the races (except kids races) during this year's Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend start at 5:30 am (yep, it's really that early).  As a runner, you will want to arrive at the pre-staging area by 5.  Unlike some other races, Disney usually goes off right on time--no delays.  Expect the sky to light up with fireworks at exactly 5:30.  If you are checking a bag, you must have it checked no later than 5:15, but I've found that checking a bag is really simple and organized.  You must use the clear plastic bag provided to you during the expo.  Give yourself time, though, because the pre-staging area is HUGE.  If you're anything like me, a trip to the port-o-potty is a must, so leave time for that too.  I personally think if you are in your corral by 5;20, you're good, but be warned--it's like cattle being herded into narrow walking spaces.  It takes time!  Remember, the corrals are let off one by one, so if you are in the later corrals, you have more waiting to do.  One last note, be sure you have enough time to get from your hotel to the staging area, and if you're driving, account for traffic and road closures.

3.  What is it like to do the races alone?
     I have had the privilege of ALWAYS being at these events with family, however I almost never run with them.  If your family isn't on board, meet up with some friends and make it a no-family trip!  Plenty of people do that.  In fact, I may be meeting up with a friend I haven't seen in over 10 years at a few upcoming races.  Don't have friends who want to run with you?  First, ask around!  I actually have a great friend that is doing the Star Wars 10k for her first race, and another who might (c'mon Shannon... do it!) do Tink.  Wanna know a secret?  I've even asked my husband if he wouldn't mind staying behind--I would love to do a "friends only" weekend.  I've met so many people online and in person through runDisney and would love to have a runDisney geek-out weekend!


4.  My hubby and kids are coming to watch.  What are their options? 
    First you have the option of purchasing ChEAR Squad packages for your family.  You can find out more about those on the runDisney website.  There's no need to do that, though.  There are plenty of places where you can watch for free!  First, the starting line is a sight to see: characters, music, fireworks.  You definitely want them at the start.  Then I would suggest moving to the area between Disneyland and DCA.  The runners run straight through from one park to the next.  That's usually around mile 2-3, so that leaves time for them to get some breakfast in Downtown Disney before heading to the finish line (which is right by the start).  They get to see you 3 times without much walking.  Couple of tips: be sure they know your pace and the expected time you'll be arriving.  Yes, I'm even going to suggest that you carry your cell phone and call ahead to be sure you are both clear as to where to meet.  Have them wear distinguishable clothes so you can pick them out of a crowd.  Signs, balloon, noise makers, whatever they can think of to stand out in a crowd.  For little ones, definitely take the stroller; remember, it's early!  If anyone wants to get more adventurous, all parts of the course are open to spectators except the parks and stadium. 
5.  Is the course hilly?
     Not really!  Great news, right?!?!  There are a few overpasses that feel like mountains compared to the flat rest of the course.  I think the worst part is right after the Honda Center where there is a narrow dirt path.  Please, please, please, be cautious in this area and exercise ALL runner etiquette. 

6.  Is there something special you need to do to get into the Dumbo Double Dare?
     When registering, the Dumber Double Dare is it's own race.  You have to register for the Dumbo Double Dare to qualify for the special challenge medal.  If you just register for the 10k and Half, you will not get the DDD medal.  Note: DDD is the first thing to sell out, so you have to be ready to go right when registration opens, usually about 9 months prior to the race. 

Do you have more questions? Ask below!  We are almost "experts" at this race!  Also, don't forget to check out the official race guide here: http://as1.wdpromedia.com/media/rundisney/pdf/disneyland-half/2014/DLHM14_Program_Online.pdf

Photo credit: runDisney