Throwback Thursday: 2014 Wine & Dine Half Marathon

It's right around the corner: the 2015 Wine & Dine Half Marathon! I'm bummed I won't be going this year--it's one of my favorite runDisney events and favorite time to go to WDW. I knew it wouldn't be worth it, though, since I'd be running slow and not able to enjoy the BEST part of the weekend-the wine!

For those of you going, here's a Throwback Thursday for you: My 2nd time running, and the race that became comically known as the "splash and dash".  A little rain never hurt anyone, right???

Original Post: 12/22/14

Race Report: 2014 Wine & Dine Half Marathon

I hope I can remember this race!  Yes, it's been way too long and I should have recapped sooner.  I got sucked into the holiday rush and too much work at work.  Here goes nothing!

My Dole Whip Costume...Dry :)

 

We spent the day at the parks, and returned to our hotel room around 5 to get ready for the race.  We were able to lay down for about half an hour before getting ready, which was great since we planned to shut down the after party.  We, along with everyone else running, were looking at the gloomy forecast with sad eyes.  There was no avoiding it.  It was going to rain.  We got ready, not changing much of our plans for costumes and attire.  We were sure to pack some ponchos for afterwards, and just figured we'd suck it up and have fun.  Even as I write this, I'm still not back to where I was with speed, so it was no big deal to just take it slow.

 

The last dry pic of the night

We headed out of the hotel around 7:30 and took a cab to Saratoga Springs.  We stayed off property at the Hilton near Downtown Disney, so this seemed like the best option.  Boarding the bus was easy and we were on our way to meet up with the Mickey Milers.  This race is fun to be at early--everyone is awake and buzzing with excitement.  We had ponchos to keep dry before we started.  Of course, us being totally inexperienced with rain, threw them away because it had stopped raining.  UGH!  How dumb are we?  Once the corrals opened, we stopped one last time for the bathrooms and the lines just weren't moving!  It was the worst we'd seen!  And then it started raining.  Cold, wet rain.  A very nice fellow runner managed to get an extra garbage bag and gave it to me.  I love runners!  They are the best strangers! 

 

We had to rush to the corrals, even missed the National Anthem.  I felt super rushed.  Not sure what the difference was, but I don't remember this last year.  By the way, it was still raining.  I lined up at the back of corral C, knowing I'm slower now than I was when I registered.  I got all my electronics up and running, and soon we were off.  Yep, still raining.  I tossed my garbage bag right before the start.  I guess this was going to be a new experience for me! 

 

I started and stuck to my intervals of 2 minutes running, 1 minute walking.  And it continued to rain.  Luckily it really wasn't that cold, so my tank and pants were perfect.  Thinking about it, it's probably better to run in less in the rain.  I had no choice but to be cautious running.  I'm already cautious--it's amazing what a huge fall will do to your confidence.  This race, though, was even more cautious than I usually am.  I was very careful about my footing and not running too fast.  Then I saw someone fall and it was all over for me.  I was not going to take the chance of injury.  I kept it slow.

 

As for the course, we went through Animal Kingdom first, then Hollywood Studios, then Epcot.  I didn't bring my phone or camera with me.  They would have both died had I brought them out in that rain.  I did notice a lack of characters.  Not sure what they could have done with the downpour, but we all knew it was going to rain--they should have planned for it.  I think my favorite part was running through the costume tunnel in Hollywood Studios.  Just for a few minutes, we were dry.  It felt amazing.  Oh, and those Osbourne Lights!!!!!  This year I decided to walk through.  It never gets old.  Just absolutely beautiful!!!!!  The rain really started to come down at the last mile.  I was glad I was almost done and could change into dry clothes.  That last bend before the finish line is great at Wine and Dine--they have lights and blasting music that really captures the party feel.  Round the corner and I was done.  I made it in 2:31, not lightning speed, but with the weather, I thought it was pretty great.  I collected my medal, fuel, and was off to the bag check.

 

I was one of the lucky ones whose medal did not break (there were many that were broken with the spinner).  I was not, though, lucky when it came to the bag check.  I'm not sure if they were short volunteers or what, but I waited over half an hour in the freezing cold rain after running a half marathon to get my dry clothes.  It was awful!  This was the most unorganized I've ever seen it.  This is my #1 complaint about this race (last year was nothing like this, so I'm going to be optimistic and assume it was a fluke).  Not only was it cold, but as each minute ticked away, it was time ticking away from my party time!  It took over 30 minutes to get my bag.  Once I did, I felt instant relief.  I made my way to a real bathroom and changed.  I know they have tents, but tonight it was just too cold and I was too wet to bother with a sweaty, hot tent.  It felt amazing to be in dry clothes.  I really wished, though, that I had packed flip flops or some other wet-proof shoe.  I had to put my sloshy wet sneakers back on after changing.  Very little time went by and Bill was ready to meet up.  We finished freshening up in front of Epcot, then we were off to the party.

A little rain didn't stop us from partying!

 

Oh, and in case you were wondering, it was pouring rain there too.  If you remember, my goal was to shut down the after party.  I was not going to miss it again!  We put on ponchos and started drinking! 

 

Honestly, I can see how this is a favorite race for so many runners.  I loved the after party, even though we were soaking and freezing.  Because of the rain, not as many rides were open and the vibe was a little low-key.  I joked to Bill that this means we have to come back AGAIN next year.  Don't think that will happen, but I'm sure we'll be Wine-ing and Dine-ing again in the future.  Overall, it was a great race with bad weather, and we loved every minute!  

Throwback Thursday: 2014 Dopey Challenge!

It's Throwback Thursday!  In honor of the start of the training programs for the 2016 WDW Marathon Weekend, I thought I'd throw it back to my favorite runDisney moment: completing the inaugural Dopey Challenge!  Enjoy!  If you're running in 2016, don't forget to download your training plan here: http://www.rundisney.com/training/running/

Okay, here it is!  The final chapter in the race reports from the 2014 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend: the Marathon, and the end of the Inaugural Dopey Challenge.  Check out the first four parts HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE. 

So, we had been in Disney for five days already; I had already run 22.4 miles and walked who knows how many more.  I’d been lucky enough to feel amazing through the first 3 races and had followed my race plan exactly as I had laid it out.  Today, though, was different.  It was the marathon.  This is a no-joke distance that had quite honestly given me a lot of trouble.  I have never run the marathon even close to my “projected pace” based on my half marathon time.  I have never really been proud of my marathon times.  I know, I know, just finishing is a huge accomplishment.  Yes, it definitely is!  But as I continue to run and work hard at this hobby, I was really wanting a success as I would define it.  I had secretly hoped for a marathon PR; no, my previous time wasn’t great, but still, who would hope for that as part of the Dopey?  I think I had mentioned it in passing to my hubby, but that was really it.  I had outwardly set out my goal to be “just to finish” (just…yeah right…that’s 48.6 miles…no “just” for sure!). 

I look terrified!

My morning routine was the same…I’m sure you’ve read enough about peanut butter and jelly.  This morning, though, our room was very quiet.  The bus ride was very quiet.  The walk to the bag check was very quiet.  I was scared.  Really, really scared.  Like, almost in tears, scared.  I had worked so hard for this moment; I don’t think I can do this again if I don’t succeed.  My hubby took some starting area pictures quickly and I went straight through to the starting line.  The bus was a lot later this morning and I was feeling rushed.  2 port-o-potty stops and the fireworks were being released.  I only got into my corral as the race started.  No extra time this morning!  I think this is a function of this race being heavily local.  People just don’t get there as early and it’s just more congested. 

Once corral G got off (pretty quickly, just like the day before), the course was the same as the half marathon to start.  Streets around Epcot, running in the dark.  My race plan for today was a 3:1 run/walk ratio.  Again, I’m not usually a run/walker, so I had to squash the urge to run that first mile.  My head was filled with the voice of Jeff Galloway saying “You’ll be passing people the last 6 miles with a smile on your face.”  I wanted to be that person, so I did it.  I started slow.  I stuck to my intervals. I squashed the urge to run to get out of the crowd.  It was also much cooler this morning, almost perfect marathon conditions.  I was sweating early, but it didn’t feel too bad. 

Our first stop, just like the day before, was the Magic Kingdom.  I was really pushing my running intervals to stay on pace (my Garmin may have been my favorite Christmas present in a long, long time…I love knowing my pace at any given time).  I was keying into my music and quietly watching runners around me.  I talked to a few people, one of my favorites was a woman with Autism, running as part of Autism Speaks.  WOW—she was awesome!  We entered the Magic Kingdom through Main Street USA, same as the day before.  Still magical.  No matter how many times you do it.  As we went through the castle, I saw my mom and hubby cheering as part of the ChEAR Squad.  I slowed for a moment, but they didn’t see me.  I was right on pace and it was too early to stop the momentum.  We were out of the Magic Kingdom quickly and on the road again.

We passed by the Grand Floridian, my favorite hotel that we stayed at many times when I was a kid.  I have so many amazing memories with my family there.  Someday Bill and I will splurge and stay there (we are actually thinking about a 10-year anniversary trip).  There were still parts of the course that narrowed here, and I tried my best to signal for my walk breaks and stay to the right side. 

Quickly, we were at the Speedway.  Actually, it was really quickly.  I hadn’t missed an interval, and was maintaining the same pace, feeling great!  Just like in Disneyland, the cars aren’t my favorite part, but it definitely broke up the course.  The owners of the cars were there, and some of them were very spirited.  It was a lot of fun!

After the speedway, we were off to the Animal Kingdom.  On the way in, I met another runner in the same costume.  We chatted a bit, but she was doing the pictures/experience thing (I did that last year during Goofy) so I ended up losing her within the park.  I love talking to people on the course, but sometimes I get a little shy J  I will say it again, the Animal Kingdom is not my favorite park to run through.  I don’t like the uneven surfaces and the up and down of the course.  I feel like that park is a love/hate relationship with many, and I know of a ton of people that LOVE it.  I’m just not one of them.  On the way out of the park I saw Ali Vincent’s mom waiting for her to come through (she must have been pretty close behind me).  I love Ali Vincent—I got to meet her last year at Disneyland and she is an absolute doll; so inspirational!

Back on the road, and we were halfway there.  I felt good, but I knew that this is where the race started for me.  I feel like I’m at the point where I can run a half marathon any day, but 13.2, that’s HARD.  I had to keep pushing, even though my head was starting to drift.  At the front of the park, there is a lot of narrowing of the course, so I had to slow down a bit, which just meant I had some time to make up.  More miles on the road.  I knew our next stop was the Wide World of Sports, and I knew I’d see my family. 

We entered WWoS around Mile 17, I think.  We wound through a bunch of fields.  It was a great distraction.  I knew my family was at the baseball stadium and was really looking forward to seeing them.  This is also around the time you get the wet sponge/towel…ahhhhhh…it felt so good.  This year I decided to keep it on my neck so I could continue to cool myself down.  Sooooo, this is where it gets emotional.  I looked at my Garmin.  I was doing it.  I was on pace to crush my previous PR.  I mean…crush!  It was that moment that you hope no one is looking, because I totally got the ugly cries.  Get it together, there is still a long way to go!  I had to actually do self-talk because I was having trouble catching my breath, trying not to cry.  I finally took the sharp turn into the stadium, and I saw the great signs my mom made.  I couldn’t stop smiling, and I could tell they knew how amazing my run actually was going.  I was feeling so strong (and for the record, yes, I’m tearing up again even as I’m writing this).

After the stadium, you loop around to hit mile 20 and start to see the waves of runners entering where you just left.  Those runners looked awesome and it was great to cheer each other on.  I know this course well and knew that mile 21 was tough (it’s a killer overpass), and I also could hear the words of many saying “the race starts at mile 20.”  I was running strong, and must have looked good too, because even the green Army men said so!  We were on our way to Hollywood Studios, I kept my intervals, and I passed the straightaway that had given me a ton of trouble on previous races. 

Hollywood Studios flew by.  To be honest, I don’t remember most of it (darn…should have written this sooner).  Yes, I was starting to get tired, but I kept up on the intervals, even if I slowed a few times.  We ran out the front of the Studios and the crowd really perked up.  I cannot thank those who show up to cheer on these mornings enough—it’s a great pick-me-up.  As I ran, passing people, I couldn’t help but hear Jeff Galloway’s voice again…and he was right!  I was passing people all over the place.  People were cheering and were excited watching me fly by.  Wow…I must really look good!  Okay, ugly cries, ugly cries.  Yes, it happened a few more times.   I was keeping on pace. 

Yacht & Beach Club, then the final leg: Epcot.  This was really about to happen; I was about to finish the Dopey Challenge.  Yes, you guessed it, the ugly cries, and this time there were tons of people around.  Hard to hide it.  The countries ticked by and we were off to the finish.  What is that I hear?  The Gospel Choir.  YES!  This was it!  The finish is just around the corner. 

There is was: the finish line.  I tried to catch my breath and gave it all I had to cross strong.  I stopped my Garmin.  Try to hold it together, Aly.  YOU JUST PR-ED THE MARATHON!!!!!!!  Holy *&^% (this is a G-rated blog, but be creative).  My final time: 4:42:12.  Yes, that is a 26-minute improvement over my fastest marathon.  (For the record, my PR was from my first marathon in 2005)  No, I’m not qualifying for Boston or anything, but this was amazing for me.  Talk about trying not to cry too much.  I still can’t believe it. 

I really rushed through the finish chute to get to my family.  I collected my medals, thanked every volunteer I could find, and hugged the volunteer who put the Dopey medal around my neck (while apologizing for my sweaty, smelly self).  I collected my bag and met up with my hubby and mom.  Yes, I cried when I saw them too.  They got it.  My husband has spent many weekend mornings alone while I pounded the pavement.  My mom had to listen to me obsess over training during our daily phone calls.  My hubby kept snapping pictures; I guess I’m not one to show emotion too often, so he had to document this event.  I took many pictures with my medals, and with two of the many people who had supported me on this journey.  I posted on Facebook.  I checked official results, just to be sure that I wasn’t dreaming. 

I could really go on forever; this was one of the best experiences of my life.  I felt amazing through all four races, and I have to give one person credit: myself.  I know that sounds a bit conceited, but I think it’s an important message.  I made this happen; I made this dream come true.  It was a lot of hard work, but I would not have done it any other way.  To be able to get to that finish was amazing.  To feel great at the end was even better.  To be able to walk away with a PR and memories to last a lifetime; it’s indescribable.  To sit here, writing this post, and still tear up, that speaks volumes to how much this experience has meant to me. 

Being a bit Dopey!

I have a feeling I’ll be writing more posts about Dopey, how I approached the challenge, and the many things I did to find success.  Thanks for coming along on my journey to 48.6.  I hope if you took on this challenge, you, too, found success.  I hope that if you are looking for inspiration to run your first race, run a new distance, or finally get that PR, this story has made you smile and realize that it’s all worth it.  I am in no way done, as I whole-heartedly believe we are all a work in progress.  I’m not sure what my new running goal will be, but I do know that it will be hard to beat my experience at the 2014 Inaugural Dopey Challenge! 

My hard-earned BLING!

Throwback Thursday: 2013 Wine & Dine Half Race Report, The Half Marathon

It's almost here!  Actually, as you read this, we are probably on the plane on our way to Disney World to take on the 2014 Wine & Dine Half Marathon!  I can't wait to party all night.  Why?  Because last year I felt so terrible afterwards that we had to skip out on the after party :(  Boooooooo Hissssssss.  Not this year though!  I learned my lesson!  Here's a recap of my mistakes, and the overall great race.  Enjoy!

Original Post: December 5, 2013

Race Report: Wine & Dine Half Marathon 2013--Part 3: The Half Marathon...

 already since we are now almost 4-weeks post race, but here's my story anyways :)
My hubby flew in that morning; my mom and I did the 5k.  We spent the day at Hollywood Studios, and had a late lunch.  I really, really tried to limit my time on my feet (honestly, I did), and we tried to get in a little nap before the race.  I got a few minutes of sleep, but I was so excited it did no good.  The alarms went off and we were up getting ready around 6:00.

We boarded the buses between 7 & 7:30.  I instantly noticed a difference from the January races; people were awake, chatty, and ready to party!  I was super excited because I was mid-Dopey-training and was going to set my sights on a PR.  I felt great, the weather was good (slightly warm and humid, but almost perfect), and everything seemed to fit for a great run!

Ready to run!

We arrived at the staging area and people were really buzzing.  I stood in a long line for the bathroom then we checked our bags.  I noticed the beefed up security post-Boston, but it didn't bother me much.  We had planned to meet-up with some groups, but the bathroom lines were so long, it was impossible.  I waited one more time in the corral area for the bathroom and then lined up in corral C.
Disney had new corralling for this race; smaller (500 in each for the first few) and more frequent releases at the start.  Corral C is what would have been the back of A in previous years.  Truth be told, I had that moment of "whoa...I'm with the 'real runners'.  I don't belong here!"  I sat for about 15 minutes before the hype started up and we were getting ready to go.  I was feeling a little tired, but figured that would pass as soon as we got started.  Fanfare, A, B, then we were off!

I was really looking forward to this race: 3 parks, nighttime, food & wine at the end.  I coasted out pretty quickly and found the course really was nicely spaced out.  I never ran into the usual Disney overcrowding and there were very few run-walk-run-ers around.  My race plan was to run steady, walk through water stops, grab a clif shot when they were offered, and attempt a PR.  Here is what I remember of the run:
Mile 1: side stitches--ouch!  Just keep running your pace; it will pass (and it did)
Mile 2: WooHoo!  Feeling great, on pace for a sub-2:00 race, not breathing hard
Mile 3: Wow--look at all those people behind me...I'm really toward the front of the pack!  (I think somewhere in there we were close to the Animal Kingdom)
Mile 4: I think I ate too much today; I'm not feeling well; this necklace is making me gag; I think I'm going to throw up; rip this necklace off!
Mile 5: Don't throw up
Mile 6: Don't throw up
Mile 7: Don't throw up
Mile 8: Don't throw up (oh, and don't take that gel either, that will make you throw up)
Mile 9: Don't throw up
Mile 10: Don't throw up
Mile 11: Don't throw up, but maybe drink a little water--Ooooo...Osbourne lights!  They ARE amazing!
Mile 11.29: Yes, I remember looking down at my Garmin at this exact moment and thinking, "You idiot!  You ran a 5k this morning, walked around all day, and now you're running a half marathon at close to midnight.  I want to be done with this race!"
Those thoughts consumed me pretty much until the end.  13.1 miles, built up for years as the runDisney event that is everyone's favorite.  I was miserable.  I finished in 2:13; not the worst race ever, but far from the glory that I was expecting.

I got my medal, my snacks, my drinks, my bag and headed out toward the finish line party.  My plan had been to do a wipe-down in the bathroom to change and wait for my husband, but that didn't happen.  I found some grass and planted myself in the grass.  I was wet and freezing!  This was a bad idea--I should have stuck to my original plan of changing right away.  I tried drinking little sips of PowerAde and water (I didn't even open the wine).  I tried to slowly chew some chips, thinking it was the closest to a saltine cracker to settle my stomach.  I debated over and over whether or not to get up and get to a bathroom.  I was too afraid that the moment I stood up I'd be sick.  I sat in the grass, freezing, soaked in sweat for about 20 minutes before I decided I had to get up and change.  By that time, my hubby had finished, so I stood to the side and waited for him.  He immediately knew I did not feel well; I could barely stand.

We made our way to the Epcot bathrooms, passing many people who looked like they were in rough shape too.  I changed out of my wet clothes and felt slightly better; I wish I had brought warmer clothes.  I definitely underestimated how cold I would be after the race.  Billy changed too, and then we sat outside the bathrooms for about an hour.  I wanted to go into the party so badly, but my stomach wouldn't do it.  We finally decided just to take the buses back to the hotel.  Huge disappointment--I really wanted to go to the after party.  I made Billy promise we could come back and do this race again in the future so we could plan better.  Add insult to injury--I got the prize for the worst wife that night, when I was so consumed with my own misery that I never asked him about his race.  He did really well; no PR but close and he ran the entire time (no run-walk intervals).  I hate that I didn't ask.  He is amazing and so supportive of me all the time; I was a big poo and didn't even acknowledge his victory :(

Now that you know all about my miserable night, I have to say, it is not a fault of the race itself. I loved being able to run through 3 parks.  The smaller corrals worked wonderfully (though to be fair, I was toward the front so I have no idea about people behind me).  I found little to no crowding on the course.  The Osbourne lights were literally breathtaking.  I wish I had more time to see them.  I loved some of the nighttime effects, like the disco-ball costuming area and the laser lights.  There were a few dark spots that slowed me down, but overall, it was a very entertaining course.  As always, the volunteers were awesome, the medals were great, and the organization of the event was spot-on.  The port-o-potty lines were a bit long before the race, so I'm not sure if they just didn't have enough or if I'm just impatient.  In summation: great race, I'm not a night runner, I should have had more fun, and I'll be back!

Finally drank our finish-line wine 5 days later!

Throwback Thursday: 2013 Wine & Dine Half Race Report, Jingle Jungle 5k

Happy Throwback Thursday!  Last year, I convinced my mom to join me for the Jingle Jungle 5k the morning of the Wine & Dine Half.  Enjoy the race report!

Original Post: December 3, 2013

Race Report: Wine & Dine Half Marathon 2013 Part 2--Jingle Jungle 5k

A blurry Mickey & Minnie at the start

My hubby had to work on Friday, so I conned my mom to run another 5k in Disney with me (well, let's be honest, when Disney is involved, it's not too difficult).  We had indulged at the Food & Wine Festival and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party the day before, so that early morning wake-up call was a little rough.  Add to it the fact that I was using my new phone and didn't set my alarm correctly.  The morning was a little rushed, but we ended up at the start line with plenty of time to spare.

The new magic bands allowed us to not  have to check a bag, so we walked straight into our corral and I quickly sat on the ground to try and save my legs for the half marathon.  It was "snowing" and I loved people watching.  There were some really great fun and festive costumes. I'll admit it; I've kind of been anti-Disney-5k because of the price and the whole "fun run" thing.  This being my second 5k, I will concede and admit it was pretty fun!  I hope runDisney doesn't keep the prices soaring, as they are really pricey.  I'm actually loving adding these into my race weekends.

Overall the race was fun; pretty much mile 2 was in the Animal Kingdom and the rest was outside.  It was nice to run through this park since it's missed in all but the marathon in January.  The characters were very "Animal Kindom-ish".  My mom didn't want to stop for pictures; somehow she was still worried about finishing (she did so much better this time; I wish she would have taken more pictures, but I let her 'run' the show). 

We finished right around 45 minutes.  Believe it or not, in "fun run" spirit, I left my Garmin in the room and didn't worry about pace.  The ending felt a little more "parking lot-ish" than some other races, so after a quick picture, we were on our way back to the hotel to shower and get ready for the parks.  We spent the day at Hollywood Studios and my hubby and I had to gear up for our first night race: The 2013 Wine & Dine Half Marathon. 

That's all!  5k done, now onto the real reason we came :)

Throwback Thursday: 2013 Wine & Dine Half Race Report, Part 1

It's getting close--the 2014 Wine & Dine Half Marathon!!!!  My hubby and I are heading down to the World again to participate for the second time.  We just couldn't resist the anniversary medal!  Since this blog didn't exist last year, I borrowed from myself & my old blog to bring you 3 race reports for the next 3 weeks of Throwback Thursdays!  Enjoy!

Original Post: November 27, 2013

Race Report: Wine & Dine Half Marathon 2013--Part 1: The Expo

 I guess "better late than never"--confession: I actually wrote this on the plane, but never finished the post!

Tired doesn't even begin to describe how I feel.  This was truly an exhausting weekend, but lots of fun!  The race didn't quite go as planned, but more on that later.  Let's start at the beginning: the expo!

I have to admit, I was a bit nervous going into the expo.  After the disaster that was the Disneyland Half Marathon Expo, I just didn't have it in me to fight crowds and be frustrated.  My mom and I lined up early for the bus from Riverside, not really rushing to get on the first bus.  Our bus arrived a little after 10, and I was hoping we missed the initial rush.  I dutifully checked Twitter and Facebook to see if there were any social media warnings about the expo, and I didn't see much.  Phew!  We arrived at the expo somewhere around 10:30, and quickly made our way up to snap a few pictures and pick up packets.

The panic set in just a little and I headed straight for the runDisney official merchandise booth.  I already had my plan: one wine glass and one Sweaty Band.  There was a nice pull-over jacket, but they were already out of my size.  I think it was the runDisney Gods sending me a message: "Save your money for Dopey.  You're going to want everything at that race!"  The line moved quickly and my mom and I were on our way to pick up packets.

Packet Pickup

We split up (she picked up her 5k bib, I headed to half marathon land).  My line went fast; got my bib, runner packet, pin, and I was off...off to wait in line to pick up my husband's stuff.  That line was way longer, but they stationed staff within the line to check your ID before you got to the front.  I'm sure it helped a little, but more-so, I appreciated the attempt to find any little ways to expedite the process.  With two packets in hand, I headed out to pick up my 5k bib & pin.  Yes, my hand were full and I was having trouble juggling everything!

We then quickly made our way over to the expo.  I had a long list of things I wanted to check out, and happily, the crowds weren't too large and I was able to purchase everything I wanted.  We picked up our race shirts as well, then headed to the buses to Epcot for some yummy food.

Overall, this was another successful expo!   I was happy that runDisney had planned this to better accommodate the runners.  I'm looking forward to another smooth expo in January!

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! 

Throwback Thursday: Disneyland Half Marathon 2012

In exactly one month we will be crossing the finish line and earning a whole bucket of BLING!  Until then, let's continue visiting past races! This time last year, I was still running my own personal blog, which I had originally created to keep me on track while training for my first Goofy Challenge.  I thought that would be the end of my running, but HA...not so!  So...in an attempt to psych everyone up even more, I thought I'd share my reviews from previous Disneyland Halves as part of a little "Throwback Thursday" mini-series!  Enjoy! (p.s. Don't I look so YOUNG)

Original post: September 5, 2012: Disneyland Half Marathon (& Our First Coast to Coast)

We did it!  My husband, Billy, and I finally got our first Coast to Coast--and yes, I say first because we are already planning for next year.  So here it is, my race report of the Disneyland Half.

Saturday, September 1, 2012: The Expo

Corral B...I'm a happy girl!

Packet Pickup

Waiting in line for the expo to open.

We drove into Anaheim Friday night, so this was our only chance to get to the Expo.  After being at both Disneyland and Disney World, this expo is a lot less crowded and gives you a chance to actually shop.  Last year in Florida, I got so claustrophobic I couldn't spend my hard-earned money (hmmmmm....maybe that one IS better).  Anyway, I digress.  We waited a short time in line before heading in to pick up our bibs, park tickets, pin, and goody bag.  I was all about getting to the parks, so I had our waivers printed and signed, so we headed straight to pick up the bibs.  My number was about 600 people worse than last year, so I was a little nervous, but B is for BRAGGING RIGHTS!!!!  Yes, I made it to corral B.  Now, I'm not a super fast runner, so corral A is a bit out of reach for me, so B is my proud, shinning moment.  So, got my bib, got my bracelet for my coast to coast medal, got my pin, and got my park tickets.  Disney has all this in a separate room, which makes it nice to actually be able to breathe while you do all of this.  Then, onto the big ballroom, i.e. where I spent my hard-earned money :)  Got our goody bags and shirts first.  Now, I'm not saying I love all the junk that usually ends up in the bags, but really?  Was it just because we came Saturday?  My bag was "full" of...well...one mini Clif bar and my safety pins.  That was it.  Guess it left less junk to get rid of at the hotel.  Shirts were cute, pretty standard for Disney.  I love that they give you tech shirts and not t-shirts.  They last so much longer and don't end up looking all worn after a few washes.  I do, though, wish they would get away from those dark colors.  Wearing it to the parks in 90-degree heat is tough.  After getting all the essentials, it was time to SHOP!  I love this part, can't you tell?  Just like in every other area of vacationing, Disney has merchandising down to a science.  I wanted everything.  I did, though, have some specific things in mind.  First was the Coast to Coast sweatshirt I was pining over in Florida.  There, they had many available, but there was a printing error and I didn't want to spend $50 on a sweatshirt with an imperfection.  I found it here, but only in XL and S; I'm not a small.  So XL is was, and we justified it by saying we'd "share" the sweatshirt.  Also picked up another car magnet to match my 26.2 and a Disneyland Half Marathon "I'm only half crazy" shirt.  We shopped around for a while, picking up another shirt from One More Mile (I just love their stuff!) and Billy bought the Jeff Galloway "run-walk-run" clock.  By the way, if you use that method, this thing is the best!  It's loud and vibrates.  Billy loved it & I think I'll be using it during the full marathon in January.  Being at Disneyland, I have a hard time sitting and listening to the speaker series, although there are a lot of great speakers.  We got to hear Jeff Galloway while we shopped, picked up some good pointers and heard some great questions from the audience.  Billy had to register with the run tracker for his facebook (I did that at home), so we quickly did that, took a few more pictures, then headed out to the parks.

Sunday, September 2, 2012: Disneyland Half Marathon

We look pretty good for 5:00 am

A bit of the crowd

We woke up early to get ready for the race.  We stayed at the Tropicana Inn & Suites, which is right across from the entrance.  We can usually stay at the Hilton for free, but figured it would be well worth the money to be about a mile closer to the start line.  Starting time was 5:45 am, so we headed out at 4:30 to be sure to have time to check our bags, get into our corrals (B...Bragging rights, remember?), and make the ceremonial last Porto-potty stop.  There was a bit of a jam up as we walked to the corrals, which we never experienced before.  We squeezed into the corral just before 5:30.  It was jam packed full already.  If there was any negative to a Disney race, it is that there are tons of people running.  National Anthem, fireworks, wheelchair racers, corral A, THEN...we're OFF :)  I will say, that first mile was rough.  It was so crowded you couldn't get off to a good pace.  This was the beginning of my not getting a PR (personal record, as my mom finally asked "what the heck is this 'PR' thing").  Hit mile one and my watch said something like 10:40...UGH...it should have said 9:32.  Grrrrr....  Well, I felt good and was having fun, so I just made my mind up that I'd have to make up about a minute throughout the rest of the race.  Miles 2 & 3 are inside California Adventure and Disneyland.  We entered CA by the World of Color, which was playing.  I promptly turned off the i-pod and enjoyed the "Disney-ness" of the race.  Too bad I had to make up time, because this is the best part.  We then got to run down Radiator Springs/Cars Land.  What a great scene...looks just like the movie!  Then we swiftly ran into the Disneyland Park.  This year, they looped us around a little differently with the addition of Cars Land, but we still got the usual thrills--running down Main Street USA, going through the castle, and tons of characters.  Because I was still in "running for a time" mode, I didn't stop for pictures, but I enjoyed as much as I could flying by.  You hit about 3.5 miles...and then you're on the streets of Anaheim.  I've always said the city does a great job with bands, cheerleaders, dancers, etc to line the course.  They produced again this year, giving nice breaks to the somewhat boring course.  They added a car club (maybe to go with the Cars Land stuff?), but I have to say, it was a long, boring stretch of cars.  It kind of bummed me out too, because from afar, it looked like a water station, but it wasn't.  Kind of a half-marathon mirage.  I thought I was coming up on a water break, but it was just a bunch of old cars.  Now, if I was a car person, this might have been great, but it was just too long of a stretch with not much cheering or excitement.  Somewhere on the streets you hit the 10k mark.  Check the watch.  Do the math.  I'm on my way to a PR!!!!  Not the 2:05 race I was hoping for, but a solid minute improvement from my best time.  Just don't know if I can keep it up.  My legs are starting to get tired.  There is about 5 miles where the only glimmer of hope is the run around the Honda Center.  You don't go in, but at least you can say you ran around it, right?  Then you hit mile 9, the Clif shot station.  I hate gooey shots.  They turn my stomach and I was already feeling nauseous from these antibiotics I am on, so this was not a stop for me.  After the race, Billy bragged about the kick it gave him, and the energy he had to finish strong.  Maybe this is something to consider for the future, because I could have really used a kick!  Then it was a quick stroll into Anaheim Stadium.  This is another highlight.  It's loud, fun, exciting.  You really get a good burst of energy running those bases.  I was starting to fatigue, both physically and mentally at this point.  I didn't even look up to find myself on the jumbo-tron.  You hit the 15k mark right before you enter the stadium.  Again, watch, math, PR is in reach!  You exit the stadium through an underpass with a pretty steep hill (at least it is when you've just run 10 miles).  Then some more boring streets.  This was the point I hit the wall.  Not as much as when you hit it during a marathon, but I just didn't have anything left in the tank.  I didn't want to add more PowerAde & water, as my stomach was already feeling like crud, but I had little left.  The sugar probably would have helped, and in hindsight, I felt fine the rest of the day, so I probably could have had a little more.  Run, take a 30 second walk break, start up strong, need another walk break, long walk through the hydration stations, run some more, talk to yourself, check the watch, do the math, my PR is slipping away.  It was a little heartbreaking, but I felt good.  I had a rough month leading up to this race health-wise, so I am proud of what I was able to do so far.  During mile 10, I figured I was off my PR, so just enjoy, coast, and finish strong.  And then it happened...the girl next to me told her friend "We only have one more mile. You can do it."  What?!?!?!  One mile?!?!?!  I thought we were still on mile 10?!?!?  Then I recognized that last turn into the Disneyland Resort.  I know this part of the course.  Mile 12 is up ahead.  I completely missed the 11th mile.  I was coasting and walking when I should have been pushing for that PR.  I wasn't as far off as I'd thought.  Going through mile 12 was tough.  I tried to push, but the tank was really empty at this point.  I smiled through the end, ran through the finish, and happily walked, upright and feeling great, to grab my drink, towel, food, and most importantly, my TWO medals.  I finished.  I finished strong.  I felt great.  No need to stop at the medical tent for ice.  After the miserable marathon I ran in January, this felt amazing.  I did not PR, but I was only less than 3 minutes off.  I put it out there that I was trying for a PR.  It helped me push through some tough spots, knowing that I had so many people wishing me luck from all over the place.  I will break my 2:09 record someday.  I've read Disney races aren't a great place to run fast; there are just too many people.  I'm proud of what I've accomplished.  I'm proud of my husband.  We both walked away health, happy, and with two medals clinking around our necks.

The Bling!

After getting my goodies, I went to the family meet-up area.  This is actually the first race where we didn't have anyone to meet with other than us.  I whipped off my sneakers as soon as I found a spot and changed into flip-flops.  My toes needed some air!  Billy was soon to follow.  We took some photos and watched the winners receive their trophies.  We hung around for a few minutes, but it was starting to warm up and we just wanted to shower and start celebrating in the parks.

On a side note--I named this blog after my favorite poster at the Disneyland Half Marathon.  Just Keep Swimming person...where were you????  I have no idea who this person is, but for that last 2 years, I laughed each time I saw that sign (it's a Finding Nemo reference, if you didn't know).  They always stand in the same place.  I missed you, stranger, this year!!!!  My husband saw her (to be honest, I can't even remember if it is a man or woman) at the usual place, but she wasn't there when I went by.  Maybe next year I'll move back in corrals so I can see you!

It was a great race.  It's a great first half marathon, if you ever considered doing one.  I love the bling.  I love the course.  I love the organization (which could make or break a race).  Yes, they are pricey runs, but I never hesitate, because I love to Run Disney!

Yipeeee!

Here are some numbers for you:

My chip time: 2:12:43

Splits:

5k:  31:13

10k: 1:01:01

15k: 1:31:38

Rankings:

Overall: 3336/14829

Women: 1377/9340

Division: 267/1647