Race Report: 2017 Tink Half Marathon

Yep, let's keep going with the recaps! I registered for the Tink Half in the eleventh hour. I was not trained well, but got in some long runs so I wouldn't hurt too much after the race. It was my Mother's Day gift, and I loved every minute! I ran this race once before (when I was in much better shape), so I was definitely looking forward to this race.

First, I have to say that staying at Paradise Pier was the BEST way to start the race! We were right by the start line and it allowed me to catch some extra sleep. I was in corral C; I've had a few years of not so fast races so the benefit of the female-only first corral was beyond my pace. No worries, though. I knew I wasn't going to be breaking any speed records!

The energy at the start was great. Tons of sparkle, tutus, and wings crammed into the street ready to run. The weather was absolutely perfect. It seriously could not have been a better day to run a half marathon. This is my favorite Disneyland course. I know, I've said before that the Disneyland Half Weekend is my fave, and it definitely is for nostalgia. This course, though, is just perfect! You get to run through beautiful neighborhoods, get a ton of park time, and it really does just fly by.

Bathroom Selfie!

I completed the race with a 1 minute run/30 second walk interval ratio. I've been playing around with it and this seems to work best for me. I was able to keep up with this plan for the entire 13.1 miles. I finished the race in 2 hours, 35 minutes. Nope, definitely not a great time, but for the minimal training I've put in and my lack of speed over the past 2 years, I'm satisfied. Most importantly, I was able to run easily and still walk around the rest of our trip. I took plenty of selfie breaks and a bathroom break, so my overall pace was not too bad. Most importantly, I had a blast and enjoyed every mile.

Sometime you need candy from a stranger!

Ride selfies, because I hate lines!

We have to talk about the elephant, right? If you didn't read recaps of the Tinkerbell 5k, you can check mine out here. There were many moans and groans about no characters on the course for pictures. Well, the half had plenty of characters! I'm not one to stop and wait for most races, but the character stops were pretty much the same as I had seen in the other runDisney races. Looks like if you want character stops, you might need to push yourself for the 10k, half, or full marathon distances.

Always need a finish line pic!

Tink is not a yearly race for me, but this being the second time running, it's one I would definitely return to. The time of year is perfect weather, the race is super fun, and I personally think it's a great way to celebrate Mother's Day! Now, we just need to sit it out and hope that whatever difficulties are preventing the registration of next year's Tink gets resolved!!! (Let the rumors continue!!!)

Beautiful bling!

Race Report: 2017 Tink 5k

Perfect Start!

Recycled Costume!

Time to start recapping those races I ran a month ago! HA! In all honesty, this past vacation to Disneyland was WAY more about vacation than races, but nonetheless, we ran. It was a family trip, and the 5k was about family! I had the pleasure of running with Katie and Chris. This was our first time running the 5k and our main reason was the start--I mean, really, it doesn't get better than a Main Street USA start with Tinkerbell!

We stayed at the Paradise Pier hotel, so luckily we didn't need to wake up TOO early. We got into our costumes and headed to Disneyland for the start. We lined up in corral B (note: everyone was in corral "A" then they corral you based on when you arrive, so if you are dying to be in the front, get there early). As we looked up, we realized that we had a big old tree in view of the Tink flight path. Meh! Then, smart me moved us back to corral C with a little, "Excuse me, we need to use the restroom" tactic. Now we were in the middle of Main Street with a perfect view! So, word to the wise, if you arrive later, stay back and start in corral C.

Corral C, please!

Always fun in DCA!

It took a bit to get going since we started in the back, but hey, we were there for the fun. We started right in front of the Matterhorn with a small start line. The course had tons of park time, and we did some run/walk intervals and took a few selfies. It was a beautiful day, perfect running weather, and since we weren't running for time, it was no pressure.

Always time for a bathroom mirror selfie!

The finisher's medal was beautiful! This was the first "medal medal" I earned (the non-rubber ones) for a 5k. Of course I also got the infamous snack box...yum!

Here was your character stop...

Okay, but let's get to the proverbial "Dumbo" in the room--characters on the course. Everyone was talking about it all weekend. You might have thought they made us run on a treadmill instead of even having a race. There were no character stops. Yes, that was true. There was a place to take a selfie, but that was it. I totally get why people were upset. Had my goal been to stop and take pictures, I would have been upset too. Had this been my first and only runDisney event, I would have been really upset. Yes, I'm planning on getting more thoughts out about why I think they tried this.

Even with the big character snafu, I still think this race was totally worth it! Main Street USA alone was worth the price! I'm not sure when we'll make it out for this race weekend again, but if we ever do, the 5k will be a must do for me!

Recycling My RunDisney Costumes

So with Tink right around the corner, I have been thinking a lot about costumes. I know this is probably a huge no-no to many, but I'm thinking of simply recycling my Tink costumes from the last race. GASP--I know! Hear me out on this; I'm thinking it just makes sense.

First, I'm going to swap and wear running gear for the half and the costume for the 5k. Let's face it; I'm not really in great running shape so why bother with all that extra fluff. I'll support the Tink theme but be comfortable.

Second, that Wendy costume is super cute! I loved it, and I want to wear it one more time! It's a bit heavy, though, so the 5k is perfect.

Third, I'm a toddler mom, and I just don't have the time to put into an elaborate costume. Yes, I'm kind of wimping out here, but my home business is booming (so that means more time out of my day to work), my work outside the home is increasing, I'm in the last few weeks of my college course, and you know, life happens! I'm just trying to set realistic expectations for myself without having to live off a perma-coffee drip!

Finally, I'm really going into this trip to focus on a fun family vacation. I've said it before: you have to decide are you going to Disney to run or are you running on your Disney vacation. This time I'm definitely running on my Disney vacation. If it wasn't for the bling, I probably wouldn't have even registered for the race.

That's all folks! I'm doing it! I'm recycling my costume and will proudly wear it for the races...again! I'll have to spend some time focusing on September's costumes soon because I have no back-up for those races. Pixar theme here we come!

Half Marathon Training Plan for Tink

Well, since I bit the bullet and registered for Tink, I guess I should start training, right? I have some personal motivation for doing this race, but really let's be honest: it's all about the bling! I knew when they released those pretty medals I needed to add them to my collection.

One other big reason, though, is I want to run a faster race to use for proof of time. Of course to do that it would be helpful to train properly. No use crying over spilled milk, right? So here we go, diving into my training plan to get ready for Tink in 7 weeks!

I'm working backwards, aiming for a 10 mile long run on May 6th. I'll be doing my long runs on Saturdays since I teach a HIIT class on Sunday mornings. I'm hoping the weather starts to cooperate a little more. We've had a few nice days after the blizzard last week, so if this keeps up life will be good!

Short runs are important too, so my goal is a Tuesday/Thursday short run. I'll run outside if I can or at the gym if I have to. Luckily Robby adores going to the nursery at the gym, because I'm going to have to rely on that if Bill is on the road. Our town just isn't very conducive to running on the road with a toddler in a stroller.

My schedule is going to be tight. I'm hoping that muscle memory is strong and my body just knows what to do when I lace up those shoes. Guess I won't know, though, until I get out on the road for my first long run this weekend. Wish me luck! I'm going to need it!

A Mother's Day Gift

A few weeks ago my mind just couldn't stop thinking about registering for Tink. A few messages later and here I am buying a bib from my friend Patty at My No Guilt Life. Leave it to another Disney nut to tell you everything you need to hear to make running this race a good idea (okay, not that it honestly took much).

Here we are, a few months from Mother's Day, and I can officially announce that I'll be toeing the line with my fellow moms for the Tinkerbell Half Marathon! I'm super excited to get back on the road and train hard to run faster than I have in a few years. I know, I know, no PRs at Disney races, but I'd really like to get some under 2:30 times again. Between knee surgery and pregnancy, I haven't had a great race in a LONG time. Now that I'm getting back to being fit, I also want to get back to running.

Photo credit: Disney Parks Blog

Time to start planning my training. I'm thinking I'm going to stick with the run/walk/run plan since I've been having some knee pain and I'm just starting out again. I've run great races using intervals, so why not stick with what's been successful before. 

I know my main challenge is going to be running with Robby. He's older now and I have no idea how he'll do running in a stroller. Add to that me working two out of the house jobs and running my online fitness business and the time is ticking away. Maybe a magic running fairy will drop off a treadmill to my house.

I've been really focused on nutrition and fitness, so I'm hoping it pays off on race weekend. Now, I gotta go! It's time to run!

Pregnancy, Nutrition, and Running--Oh My!

Well, we're getting close now, and it's almost D-Day! My due date is right around the corner and we are anxiously awaiting the arrival of the newest member of Disney Runs in the Family! Sitting here at 38.5 weeks in the middle of the holiday season, I'm feeling a little reflective of my pregnancy journey and how proud I am that I have made staying healthy a top priority for myself and my little man! Yes, I'm bragging, but why not? It would have been much easier to "eat for two" and spend 9 months living on Netflix!

During this pregnancy, I ran 3 race weekends: The Tink Half, The Disneyland Half, and The Avengers Half. The first two, I did the challenges with the 10k on Saturday and the Half on Sunday. I'm pretty darn impressed by that. My training wasn't perfect. It was actually far from perfect, but it's still a major accomplishment that I am very proud of. One half marathon per trimester--that just sounds really cool! I also managed to keep up with my other workouts, still teaching classes at the gym until 35 weeks. I had to eventually give it up, though, because I couldn't get through the hour of jumping around without using the restroom. I'm still taking classes and getting my workouts in, but I've really had to modify now that the baby is sitting low and we are close to the end.

One thing that I KNOW helped tremendously has been my nutrition. I really tried to stick with a healthy diet, rich in protein, fruits and veggies. Of course I had Shakeology daily to fill in any gaps with nutrition and drinking lots and lots of water was a top priority. My energy was a little low the entire time, but luckily I haven't had too much trouble sleeping except for the past 2 weeks. I also have not had any medications and only had to suffer through one quick cold right after Thanksgiving. All in all, I was super healthy. Of course, I attribute part of that to the choices I made, but I have to admit that I was lucky too.

Now, we are at the sit around and wait part. Depending on who you ask, I'm either already full-term or will be within a few days. I personally really wanted to get through Christmas, and that looks pretty good. Once I hit 39 weeks, though, the eviction notice will be served!

I have to admit, I'm really excited to get back to running fast and working out hard. Between my knee surgery last year and pregnancy this year, I haven't been able to work on speed in a long time and I'm ready to set some big goals! My first race will be the Hot Chocolate 15k in Vegas on February 28th. I know I won't be breaking any records, but it will be nice to be on a course with friends for some fun running! (By the way, if you're interested in this race, use my code LASVEGASBUFF3 to get extra swag in your bag) I'm hoping recovery from labor is quick and I can get a good month of training under my belt before race day, but I won't make any promises.

Stay tuned for our big birth announcement--hopefully sooner rather than later! We can't wait for our little monster to arrive!

Race Report: 2015 Tinkerbell Half Marathon

On Sunday, May 10th, I headed out to finish the last leg of the Pixie Dust Challenge: The Tink Half!  In case you missed it, you can read about the expo HERE and the 10k HERE. 

Honestly, I didn't feel super prepared for this race.  I hadn't run much since Princess other than a few long runs here and there.  I knew I'd finish, but I also knew I wasn't going to be flying.  I think my favorite part was my costume--my mom constructed the PERFECT Wendy costume!  I loved it!!!

We definitely got spoiled staying at the Disneyland hotel.  I was able to sleep in and basically roll out of bed onto the start line!  This morning, I lined up with corral A (hey...when you get the chance you go into the corral, even if you know it's going to be a slow race).  I didn't get to watch too much of the pre-race fanfare since I was only there a few minutes before the start.

Right after 5:30 we were off and running.  The first 4+ miles were in and around Disneyland/DCA.  This race has a LOT of miles in the park!  Probably the most out of the DL races I've run.  I can see why this course is a favorite amongst many runners.  I didn't stop for pictures--I just ran this one.  I did, however, stop for a potty break in the park--one of the great advantages of running through Disney--real, working bathrooms!

Once we left Disney, we were on the oh-so-familiar streets of Anaheim.  This course was a bit nicer than the Disneyland Half in my opinion, but the front-runner is still Star Wars when it comes to time outside of the park.  Official results to follow after I run Avengers this November!

This race did really heat up once we were on the streets too--a common concern of those who had run this race in it's original spot on the calendar (remember...it used to be in January).  My costume was light, but even it started to feel heavy by the end of the race.  Two and a half hours later, I crossed the finish line.  I gathered up my medals...all three of them...and headed to get snacks.  I have to say with all of the pampering that went on at Princess, I was looking forward to similar treatment at Tink, and I was a little disappointed.

After snacking, it was back to the hotel to shower and get ready to explore Disneyland!  Of course, I made a HUGE mistake and forgot my Princess medals at home, so no cute pink coast to coast photo from this race.  I was sure, though, to get plenty of pics with my bling from this weekend, and there was plenty of it!  I don't know that a repeat performance of this race is in my future.  Maybe if it included friends and a girls weekend, but I won't be running to register any time soon.

Anyone else do Tink?  What are your thoughts on the new dates?

Race Report: 2015 Tinkerbell Half Marathon Weekend: Expo

For once, I'm on top of it!  Just a few days ago we returned from the 2015 Tink Half Marathon Weekend.  Here's Part 1--our review of the expo.  Since me and my mom were running, I thought it would be fun to hear from both of us, since we "expo-ed" different days.

I want!

Joann: After checking in at the Disneyland Hotel early Thursday afternoon (This was my first time staying here and I was obsessed with the Mickey Glove lamps in the bathroom!), I headed to the Expo around 2:30.  This turned out to be a great time to go, no crowds.

My first stop was the Official Merchandise area to see if anything on Alyson or my lists was left.  I was disappointed to find there were no wine glasses (my list), but I did manage to get us the coffee mugs.  I picked up Alyson’s water bottle and my “I Did It” shirt.  The rack that housed Alyson’s “Pixie Dust Challenge” Sweaty Band was now full of generic runDisney bands.  Browsing through them, I did find her a “Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend” one.   After checking out and getting my Disney Visa discount, I headed out to explore the rest of the expo.  

Wandering around a bit, I found myself at the New Balance booth checking out the Tinker Bell sneakers.  They were adorable!  Hmmm…no wine glass, maybe I should get the sneakers….

Next stop was packet pickup.   I realized I left my waiver home, so I had to print one.  I had my choice of computers.  I printed my waiver, picked up my bib and headed to the Get Travel booth to pick up my park tickets.  My Dooney backpack was next on the list and then I headed upstairs for my race shirt. I think I did all this in less than 20 minutes! 

Margaret Kerry

Once I deposited my “treasures” in the room, Downtown Disney was my destination for a quick meal.  It was a definite benefit being so close to everything, unlike WDW.  My plan was to head back to the expo and catch some of the Speaker Series.  This was the first time I’ve had an opportunity to do this.

I sat in on the end of “Information for Runners and Spectators” by the runDisney panel.  It was interesting as they went over the race courses and answered any questions posed. This seemed like a good choice if you were a first time run Disney participant.

The speaker I wanted to hear was Margaret Kerry.   She was the Original Animator’s Reference Model for Tinker Bell.   You could see why they chose her for the part.   What a fun and entertaining speaker!   At 86 years young, she showed us pictures of herself posing for the artists, told interesting stories and even danced a little in her tap shoes.  So glad I was there for this hour.  Yes, “laughter is timeless, imagination has no age, and dreams are forever".

Aly:  My hubs and I arrived REALLY late Thursday night (in face, I think it was technically Friday morning), so we headed to the expo on Friday morning.  I set my alarm for 6 am to sign up for the New Balance Virtual Queue.  There were no issues and I was put in group 4. We slept in a bit longer then got ready to go to the expo, day 2.  I wasn't expecting much, which was good, because they were pretty well wiped out of any merchandise I wanted (thank goodness for moms who get there a day earlier).  We can go on and on about ebay and runners "rights" to buy stuff, but I'll leave that for another blog, another day.

For the pink C2C

The expo was similar to the DL Half, with all of the vendors and speakers being in the main ballroom.  It was a bit busy, but nothing like I would imagine the day before.  We were able to get our Lasting Commemoratives bookmark, browse the runDisney booth, pick up packets and goody bags, and look around leisurely. 

Just a few pairs!

Finally, around 11, it was my turn with New Balance.  I seriously love the new virtual queue system at DL! (It's a little tough at WDW because the expo isn't close to anything.  Here you theoretically could go to the parks and come back when your time is up.)  My mom and I were able to try on the new Tink shoes, plus I bought the Minnies that were released at Princess.  Yes, I have a problem.  We were done quickly and headed back to the room where we dropped off our packages and got ready to hit the parks.

Overall, the expo was pretty typical.  I didn't get the same "special-ness" as I did at Princess, but it was a standard expo.  Of course, if you're dying to get your hands on merchandise, you just have to get there for the first minutes on the first day.  There's just no way around it.  If that's not important to you, though, I highly suggest going later.  You'll have a much more enjoyable experience!

Adventures in Learning to Fly

"Think of the happiest things, 

it's the same as having wings!!!"

RunDisney’s countdown clock reads 25 days to the Tinkerbell Half Marathon Weekend. 

 

This means my trip to Disneyland is getting closer and I get to spend some time with my “kids”.  I haven’t seen Aly and Bill since Christmas.   I’m even taking an extended vacation and visiting them in Vegas for a bit.  I registered for the Hot Chocolate 5k in Vegas the following weekend, but it was postponed.   (That was my “safe” race so I could come home with a medal in case I didn’t finish the Tinkerbell 10K.  Yes, I have decided that if I do not finish, I am not taking the medal.   It’s a personal choice and it wouldn’t mean anything to me unless I finish. )

Training has been tough in the northeast. I'm not motivated to run outside since the weather has been so cold.  It seems that when it warms up, it rains.   Alyson told me “it might rain on race day” so I should just go for it.  I won’t have a choice on race day. I have a choice when I’m training. I keep choosing the treadmill.

The treadmill and I are not friends.   I hate running on it.  And, the treadmill let me know it’s feeling for me a couple of weeks ago.  When I took my phone out of its case, my driver’s license (which wasn’t properly tucked into its pocket) went flying out and disappeared into thin air.   We looked underneath, moved the treadmills and couldn’t find it anywhere.   I’m thinking it conveniently fell between the belt and frame.  So thank you, treadmill, for making me stand in line at the DMV on the last day of the month!! 3 hours later, I had my new driver’s license in hand.   

Last weekend, I did my 4.5 miles on the treadmill, again (the temp was only 28 that morning).   I’m hoping it warms up one of these days so I can do my runs outside.  I’ve even tried switching up the training plan Alyson gave me to fit the forecast, but alas, on those days, the forecast was wrong (or at least was way off for the times I had to fit in my run).  

This week, as bib numbers and corral placements came out, it was like everything fell into place!  The gym called this morning and the treadmill finally “coughed up” my driver’s license.  I no longer fear the finish line.  I actually say “when” instead of “if”.  I realized that I did my 4.5 miles and it didn’t bother me.   I’m actually looking forward to my 4.5 miles outside this weekend.  And, hopefully the next few weekends of mile increases will also be outside.  

Yes, things are looking up.  My costume will be simple because I need to comfortably get through my first 10k. Alyson and I will be dressed alike.  I'm honored that she's planning to move back from corral A to run with me!!  I’m looking forward to “flying” across that finish line.   And then, proudly wear my medal as Bill and I watch Alyson complete the Pixie Dust Challenge!

Will we see you wearing one or more of these medals at Disneyland?  We'll be looking for you on the course!

Dooney Love

Did you see the new Dooneys for the 2015 Tinker Bell Half Marathon?

A few weeks ago, I (Joann) was looking at one of the regular backpacks online at the Disney Store and thinking, "I'm going to splurge". I just wasn't sure about the closure because it was a leather pull and the reviews said the top was basically open.

And then today I saw the Tink backpack.  Love at first sight!  What a wonderful way to celebrate my first 10K (and Mother's Day, too)!





So I text Alyson, who is supposed to keep me sane and talk me out of it, but, she gave me the go ahead. She said I deserve it. That makes 2 votes.

Oh yes I did!!!

Are you getting a Dooney & Bourke on Tink Half Weekend?
(the link to pre-order is below)

Exclusive Dooney & Bourke Purses

Celebrate with an exclusive Dooney & Bourke purse, featuring a unique runDisney inspired design commemorating the 2015 Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend. Purchase yours today!

Do I have enough “Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust”?

Tomorrow, I will be trying to win a precious spot in the Tinkerbell 10k in 2015.  I’m prepared to register.  I have my active account all set.  If I get in, this will be my first ever 10k, my first timed race.

I only have two 5ks under my belt (both with Disney) and loved doing both of them.   I’m doing my 3^rd at the Disneyland Half weekend.  This will be my first race “alone” without my daughter pushing me.   To me, that’s anxiety enough, but a 10K?  Part of me knows if I set my mind to it, it will happen.  The other part of me fears I won’t finish.   Is that fear motivation enough?

 

I am totally in awe of runners who continually do these races and challenges.  I am inspired by my daughter who effortlessly finished the Dopey Challenge.  For me, the 5k has been my challenge. 

Turning 60 next month has really “messed with my head”.   I thought it was a good idea to set a goal for a 10k in my 60^th year!   Now, I’m second guessing my decision. 

The race takes place on Mother’s Day weekend and it would be the first Mother’s Day I’ve spent with my Aly since she moved to Vegas about 10 years ago!   More motivation…well, I could always do another 5k or just go and chEAR her on, but that wouldn’t be a challenge.  The biggest challenge would be to get fast enough to run the race with her and not slow her down (Even though, right now with her post surgery rehab, I’m faster than she is!  Sorry Aly, I couldn’t resist.  This may be the only time in my life I can actually say that!)

I will have to be quick on the button, no hesitations.   Alyson has already instructed me how to be ready to jump on registration.  I guess the only way to get past my fears is to sign up and go from there.   I’ve got plenty of time to train.   

I guess that settles it.   I’m putting on my wings and flying through Disneyland.  Now all I have to do is “win” my spot on August 12

 

Joann

To Tink or Not To Tink...

Yep, that is the question plaguing me!  No, registration is not happening too soon, but if you haven't guessed by prior posts, I'm a planner.  There is also the consideration of getting the mega, super-duper, crazy annual passes if we do decide to jump into more races this year.  And of course, there's also the pink coast to coast, which means Tink & Princess, so it's really to Tink & Princess or not to Tink & Princess.  Oh, and throw in the new Goofy anniversary medal and...UGH!   I clearly have an addiction.

I (Aly) have not personally run either race, but have really wanted to for a while.  Katie has, and loved Tink, and I think if I start working on her now, I might be able to convince her to run too (hint, hint Katie).  I even spun it to my hubby, "They are women's races, so I won't even ask you to run.  It would just be like a vacation!"  Clever, huh? 

Cost is probably the biggest hurdle, as we are trying to save for some possible major changes in our lives.  I'm trying to justify it by using points for flights and hotels, but plunking down the $1000 per ticket price of those annual passes is enough to make your wallet run the other way.  Oh, and then of course add in the race fees--those will likely set us back another $600 + the obvious need for merchandise for all these events.  Okay, okay...I won't be able to financially justify it, BUT...

There is always the goals excuse, right?  My goal is to run a sub-2:00 half this "season" and by running Tink and Princess, that would give me two more chances at reaching my goal.  Tink is "only" a half, so with the proper preparation there's a good shot I could do it!  Sounds legit, right?

Then there's the bucket list of races, of which these are both on, and with the added carrot hanging over my head--the pink coast to coast--who could pass this up?!?!?!  We all know runDisney is known for making changes, so what if this is my last chance ever to get a pink coast to coast medal?  Okay, again, it's not the most dire of needs, but hey, I like the bling. 

So then comes the real question--do we forgo other vacations and do one more year of "heavy" runDisney?  We can't do everything, so something's gotta give!  With the annual passes, we'd probably end up taking all our short trips to Disneyland too.

And there you have it, my latest dilemma--  to Tink or not to Tink?  That IS the question.  What would you do?  Anything I hadn't considered? 

Ten Tips for Tink

Are you running the Tinkerbell Half Marathon in Disneyland?  Have you felt left out with all the hype from the WDW Marathon Weekend?  Don't worry, we've got a post just for you!  While none of us are running this year, I (Katie) experienced the Tinkerbell Half Marathon 2013.  Here are ten tips to get you ready for this awesome runDisney event!

1. Wear a costume!  Everyone else will be, so join in on the fun!  This family ALWAYS runs in costume, sometimes matching, sometimes similar, sometimes it's on our own.  And don't feel like you are bound to Tinkerbell.  You can dress in whatever costume you want--we've seen Elvis, Superheroes, and (of course) every Disney character from the big cheese to the least known. 
2. If wearing a costume, ALWAYS take it on a test run! Especially if you intend to use your wings!  Buying fun stuff to run in at the Expo is sometimes unavoidable, but wearing your new purchase race day with out testing it out while running can be extremely uncomfortable.  Last year at Tink, I bought race sleeves to match my skirt.  I had never run with them and it left a very painful rash on my arms for the rest of my weekend at Disneyland.  OUCH!!! Sad face.  So if time allows, run with your costumes!!!
3. While training, train for everything!  Run in all kinds of weather.  Hot, cold, rain, or shine.  You never know what you will get in Southern Cali.  Especially now that Tink is moving to May in 2015.  On average, May should be pretty mild, but you never know!
4. Also, run all kinds of courses.  Tink's course is a little different than Disneyland's Half Marathon.  It starts in the opposite direction, going north and begins going up hill slightly and over two over passes before you enter the parks.  After the parks, it is relatively flat for the rest of the course so you can fly with your wings and pixie dust to the finish.
5. We tend to arrive at these events a couple of days early to attend the ever growing Expos and get in some park time before the big race.  After buying all our goodies, we will have a nice lunch somewhere either in Downtown Disney or in the park.  I can recommend ESPN Zone in Downtown and Café Orleans in Disneyland.  We then like to stroll leisurely around the parks riding some rides and taking in all the sites, sounds and beautiful mouth watering smells that they have to offer.  We also always try to find something that we haven't seen, done or noticed before on previous trips. Snapping pictures in various places and poses is a must for us as well!
6. After "taking it easy" in the afternoon it's time for carb loading.  A favorite of mine and the family's is Naples in Downtown Disney.  Great for getting those carbs before race morning!  There are also multiple restaurants near the park that have incredible food.  It's then time to call it an early night.  Tink starts EARLY!!! It started at 5:30 last year!! So, that meant that I was up around 2-2:30 preparing and getting a snack. YIKES!!!  It's ALWAYS a great idea to consult your race guide or talk to runDisney personnel.
7. Have a race plan, and don't let others discourage your plan.  Some races, I plan to run for fun and take lots of pictures.  Other times I run for a PR.  Some people will tell you do not try for a PR at a Disney race.  It is possible, if that is what your plan is!  It is your race to run, so run YOUR race--don't let others tell you otherwise!
8. Celebrate the ladies!  Disney is one of the few races (though they are growing) where women outnumber the men, and Tinkerbell is geared toward women.  Men can run too, but it's a great time to leave the family at home and have a girl's weekend.  Sounds like a great bachelorette party to me!  
9. Know before you go.  Review all the info runDisney has sent you about where to go, the expo, the race itself, and all other events. You can pick up a race program when you pick up your bib (they will likely give you one), so no need to print everything  We are all planners, so we like to know when we are going to the expo and may even make some dinner reservations before we arrive.
10. My biggest tip for running Tink is, HAVE FUN!!! Someone in my corral last year brought "pixie dust" aka, glitter, and sprinkled it over everyone.  And at every mile!!! Once you're there, stop worrying about pacing, corrals, and PR's cause if your worried about all that stuff that you have been obsessing over through training, you will miss all the beauty and magic that Tink and all runDisney events offer it's participants.  So, have some faith, trust and pixie dust for 13.1 miles and smile pretty for cameras, spectators and most importantly for yourself. Finishing is a HUGE accomplishment and smiling while you cross that finish line, being proud of your feat, and high fiving Mickey while tossing some "pixie dust" is one feeling that you will never forget!

 

"Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust"