Minnie Marathon Race Reports/Encouragement/Kudos

[Maherae]

An absolutely FANTASTIC turn out!! The WISH team will NOT be missed at this event! The time has finally come, you've put in the steps, go get that bling!!

:love: Go Red for Women 5K :love:

angietuck2's DM
Caitsmama (Stacey) and DM (Barbara)
cdotla (Tricia)
cobbler's DH
getnthinr's DS
hoosmi's DD (Emma)
jwfla422 ()
Krispy (Kristina)
Larry's girl (Susan), DH, DF (Bob), and DM (Bettie)
MomtoGKC (Amy) and DAunt
mousemgr (Susan)
ninaeve's DSis
ouchgirl (Carmen)
sap1227 (Christy)

::MinnieMo Minnie 15K ::MinnieMo JimB will be our bike medic! :woohoo:

akasleepingbeauty (Rhonda)
Alysa and DSis
andromedaslove (Dana)
angietuck2's DH (Bobby)
asburyjukes (Deb)
Boston Momma ()
bunnyfoo (Vicky)
Buttercup ()
Calcio (Craig)
CarolA (Carol)
Cherylbug (Cheryl) and DCousin Chropistopy (Christy)
Chimera (Mel) and DD dissoccergrl (Kaley)
CindyLou (Cindy)
cobbler ()
CynthiaCindy's DSis (Melissa)
dsnyfan21 (Tracy)
DisneyWalkerGirl's DNiece, and DS
Dreambeliever (Ruth)
escape (Susie)
geminibl ()
Honeibee (Judy) and DH (Charlie)
jeanneg (Jean) and DH (John)
Jen117 (Jen)
jmasgat (Maura)
joan4mickey (Joan)
jwfla422 ()
keenercam (Cam)
KeenHo (Howard)
Kimickey (Kim)
Lynn G. (Lynn) and DH Scott H (Scott)
Maherae (Anne) and DH (Bob)
MiniGirl (Eva)
Minnie328 (Michelle)
missmissy (Missy) and DAunt (Deb)
Missyha (M'Lisse)and DH Dennyha (Denny)
mkynut90 (Jason) and DW
momoftwogirls (Kathy)
NYcpa (Kathy)
Outonarun (Teri)
padisneyfan (Nancy)
pineapplaclaire
Pungodingy (Angie) and 2 DSis
RedDragon (Martha)
runningjusme (Christine)
SamSam (Sharon)
Sara74 (Sara)
Smileyk8 (Kate)
Stitch lover Sith (Erin)
Superdebbie (Debbie)
Suzannews (Suzanne)
syko () with DH and baby DD!
tennisnut (Susan)
Tiger Lily 03 (Lily)
Tink06 (Stacey)
TnTsParty (Tricia)
TXBelle (Heather)
WDWFAN9 (Pat)
WDWFLgal (Angela)
wfloyd (Bill)
WithDisneySpirit (Lisa)
wtpclc (Carrie)
xterratri (Lynne)

:daisy: Both :daisy: (really wish there was a Daisy Duck smilie!!)

AmyBeth68 (Amy)
amykab (Amy)
angietuck2 (Angie)
bridgetgabbie (Robin)
cdn gal eeyore (Leana) and DM
corinnak (Corrina)
CynthiaCindy (Cindy)
DianeL (Diane)
disneybelle (Darcey) and DD (Kayla)
DisneyWalkerGirl (Kathy) and DSis
FLORIDA GIRL (Shannon)
getnthinr (Wendy)
heathrow42 (Heather) and DH
hoosmi (Jen)
kareneast (Karen) and DH Space Ranger (John)
Lexxiefern (Becky)
Moonie ()
MrsTrx (Tracey) and DH rKyDeX (Chester)
ms. mightyduck () and DH
ninaeve (Kimberly)
Picmac ()
postesf (Stacie) and DH postemr (Matt)
ScoJo15 (Scott)
TwoWDWfools (Liz) and DH tiggerspal222 (Patrick)
ultramickeymouse's DW (Linda) and DH ultramickeymouse (Robert)

[Honeibee]

As Matt would say... "I am SO first!" Gosh, I will miss him this weekend.

OMG! :scared: I'm ON that list! :scared:

:banana: GO TEAM GO!! Whoooo hoooo! :woohoo:

[postesf]

Go Team Go!!! Minnie...Here we come!

:cheer2: :dance3: :cheer2:

[goofyinohio]

Go team Go! :cool1: :cool1:

Have a School Bread for me!!!:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

[JustSmile]

:cheer2: :cheer2: Go, WISHers, Go!:cheer2: :cheer2:

[twoWDWfools]

Go WISH Team!!!!
:cheer2: :cheer2:

Look out Minnie - here we come!!:banana:

[TnTsParty]

Go WISH team GO :cheer2:

Yeah I can't belive Minnie Marathon weekend is finally here :cool1:

[wtpclc]

Good luck everyone! Can't wait to see you all there!

[deekaypee]

GOOD LUCK WISHERS!!! WE'RE SO PROUD OF YOU!!

:dance3: :cheer2: :cool1: :banana: :dance3: :cheer2: :cool1: :banana: :dance3: :cheer2: :cool1: :banana:

[hockeygirl]

Good Luck to everyone racing this weekend!!!!! I will be thinking of you sunday morning as I am running my half marathon in NJ!!

Can't wait to hear all the race reports!!!!

[Big Vic]

Good luck everyone!!

[Jodi]

Have fun, guys!!!! :banana: :woohoo: :yay:

[perfectmatch300]

Barry & I will not be running, but we hope all of the "Minnie" racers have great events! I hope we catch up with some of you either Friday or sometime next week in the parks. I don't think we will be down on Sat or Sun, but we'll be cheering you on from home. Don't forget to stay hydrated! (But I know you knew that already!)


GO WISH TEAM!!!!

[MouseDogMom]

GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!!!

:cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2:

[cobbler]

Good luck to everyone!! Let me just say I am really getting nervous now. I haven't done any running for the last 2 weeks! AACK!!

[1/2Marathonpixie]

Go get those medals WISHers!!! Enjoy the races, enjoy each other and make happy memories!!!!!

[kareneast]

GOOD LUCK WISH TEAM...
HAVE FUN OUT THERE!
:cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2:

[TXAng]

GOOD LUCK WISH TEAM!!! :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2:

Hope you all have a great time (even though I'm very jealous of you)! Can't wait to hear all about it when you get back!

[Tinks]

Go Wish Team, Go!
:dance3: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :dance3:


And please have a Margarita in Mexico for me too!:thumbsup2

[mkymsehi]

Have fun for the rest of us!:thumbsup2

[Kristi1357]

Hope you all have a great time (even though I'm very jealous of you)! Can't wait to hear all about it when you get back!Ditto!

Have a blast, everyone! :woohoo:

[princessrunner]

:cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: GO WISH TEAM GO:cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2:

[dsnyfan21]

Go Wish Team, Go!
:dance3: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :dance3:


And please have a Margarita in Mexico for me too!:thumbsup2


Go WISHers Go!!!
I am up and out the door this morning!!
I Hope to get one of those margartas TONIGHT!!!

[Caseydilla]

Wow, big weekend here. Best of luck to you all!

[JimB.]

Jim's Race Rules:

1. Don't trip.
2. Don't fall.
3. Don't get run over.
4. If you get tired, slow down.

I like WATCHING, not WORKING!

Everyone have a great day, have fun, & I may see you there (on a non-professional basis, I hope)

[monte]

GO TEAM GO!!!! HAVE FUN

[AuntieM03]

Wow, big weekend here. Best of luck to you all!

Good luck everyone!!!:banana:

Boy does that cupcake in your avatar look good!:rotfl:

[msblrobs]

GO WISH TEAM!!!

I'll be with you guys in spirit this weekend:grouphug: . Have a blast:cheer2: and safe travels to all.

[Superdebbie]

I can't wait to cross that finish line! Those sweepers better not try to stop me!! GO WISHers :cheer2: :cheer2:

[Theta]

As Matt would say... "I am SO first!" Gosh, I will miss him this weekend.

OMG! :scared: I'm ON that list! :scared:

:


:rotfl: Yes, Judy you are on that list!! Good luck! Hugs to everyone.


:banana: GO TEAM GO!! Whoooo hoooo! :woohoo:

[chimera]

Jim's Race Rules:

1. Don't trip.
2. Don't fall.
3. Don't get run over.
4. If you get tired, slow down.

I like WATCHING, not WORKING!

Everyone have a great day, have fun, & I may see you there (on a non-professional basis, I hope)

We'll see what we can do ;) I'm going to ask every bike medic I see if his name is Jim

[Krispy]

OMG I made the list - one little post about walking the 5K and I made the list - I feel soooo special - what a warm welcome! :woohoo: :cool1: :woohoo: :cheer2:

Picked up my packet - got my picture taken with a princess, made up my ipod playlist and I am ready for tomorrow - I will walk this thing in under an hour - I have to!!! I hope to meet some of you in the morning - bright and early!

Good luck to everyone!

Kristina

:cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2:

[joan4mickey]

Back from a quick weekend trip to the World. We left Friday...arrived and went to get my race packet. I have only run a of couple local 5K's so it was a big deal to see all the stuff and get my goodies. Then off to dinner. Saturday we went to the Flower and Garden show-first time again and we really loved it. Beautiful gardens and I got to let some ladybugs loose, and the butterfly garden all just wonderful. Next, meet the Wishers. There was a lot of you gals and I had a hard time getting screen names and real name straight, but maybe there will be another chance in the future. We had an early dinner and to bed.

Up at 4am. Dress and meet my ride (thanks Kathy and Lori, and thanks Paul for riding DH to finish line). We caught the first bus to Animal Kingdom. I rode next to some lady who said she was a running coach in Tampa. She said she would be running the DL 1/2. Then wait until race, the weather was cool so I was glad to have brought a towel from the hotel room. I ate my banana and drank a little Propel.

Race starts, I skipped water stop one-as planned-next stop I had hoped for sports drink,but got water. I have not mastered the art of drinking and running so I took a big gulp and choked on it. Running okay and doing about a 9 min. pace. Ate my gel just before mile 5-I think, things are a bit jumbled from 5-8 miles. Fluid intake was bad as I'm used to a bottle with pop up top. At 8 I hit the wall. Just didn't have anything left. I did finish in under my long goal, but far from my ultimate goal. I keep telling myself I did great, as this was my first "big" race and I just started running this year.

Now the results....... 1:26:18 Pace 9:14 (I had hoped for 8:50) Finished 18th in my age group(women 45-49)

Link to photos http://picasaweb.google.com/baumann6/MinnieMarathon2008

[mkymsehi]

Great photos Joan, and wonderful job on your race. Thanks for sharing!

[dsnyfan21]

Got to the World on Friday around 10:15am. Got on a bus right away to Hollywood Studios, we had ADR at Sci-Fi for lunch at 11am. My Mom joined me for this little trip. After a nice lunch we headed over to the bus stop to catch a bus to WWOS. While waiting for a bus we bumped into Liz (another WISHer). Got over to the WWOS and picked up my packet and shirt (very small tight fitting black tech shirt. Walked around a bit. I had to pick up my SPIbelt at there both because I never got it by mail. After that we went back over to HS and then a bus to out hotel - All Start Sports.

After we settled our stuff into our room and chilled a bit, we headed over to EPCOT. We meet Maura over at Test Track around 4pm. Maura works for GM and offered a tour of the lounge and a ride on the ride. Mrs.Mightyduck, her husband, my MOm, Liz and I went to check it out. The lounge was very nice. I loved getting to talk to people and put the words to people's faces. After we sat up there checking out the view, we were able to get in one of the cars without waiting in line!! Pretty cool. The photo thing wasn't working, but I'm sure it would've been a great shot!!

Afterwards, Liz, Jen, Noah, My Mom and I talked for a long time. Liz finally had to go to meet up with some others. My Mom and I asked Jen and Noah to join us for dinner. We all had wet burritos over at the Outside Cantina. I loved talking with Jen and Noah - very nice people!! We split up and told Jen to relax and she would do really well and complete the 5K no problem.

Watched Illuminations: Reflections of Earth, my all time favorite!!
Back to the room to relax and then off to sleep.

Saturday: Up and out the door to Animal Kingdom. Did Safari ride, the treks and safari ride again. Took lots of pictures of animals. Then next to Magic Kingdom. Ate lunch at Starlight Ray's. Did some window shopping along Main Street. Next up was over to Downtown Disney for some more shopping and people watching.
Caught a bus over to Port Orleans Riverside for the meet. It was very nice to meet all the Wishers in person. Saw Liz, Jen, Noah and Maura again. Met up with SamSa (Sharon) and her DH Mike. They were my ride over to EPCOT on Sunday morning. Nice meetin up with some of my Walt's Warriors. Nice to meet SmileyKate, Mel, Anne, Scot, Amybeth and all the others!!!!!
Took bus back to Downtown Disney and then back to our resort. Relaxed, got stuff ready for Sunday and tried to pack back up my stuff.

Sunday: Had a hard time sleeping because of restlessness and the neighbors getting in late. Was up around 4:15am. Got everything on and in order. Out the door I went. Waited for my ride near the lobby doors. SamSam and her DH come around the corner right on time to pick me up. Again I have to thank them for doing that!! (Thank You!) We drove over to EPCOT and parked. SamSam's DH was commenting on the amount of cars and the line up of buses. I told hime he should see WDW Marathon weekend crowds!! Getting the buses from EPCOT to AK was effertless! Very organized and fast. Off the buses and over to the staging area. There were some water areas, port-a-potties, stage, baggage drop off and stage for the officials to start the race. Hung out for a bit saying hi to the other Wishers. I then decided to get in line for the Potty. By the time I got done with the line there was 14min until the start. I lined up in the back corral. They even had a corral behind the last one for walkers. I decided against the walker corral because I can keep a 13-15min pace. A few of us Wishers were together for the beginning of the race. After the start line I started with my pace and unfortunately had to leave my fellow wishe.rs behind. The ANimal Kingdom parkin lot was dark and quiet. On to Oseola Parkway, again kind dark and quiet. I did catch up to some other WIshers as I went along, saying Hi and trying to come up with something encouraging to say. Wasn't always able to do that, but I think I did it most of the time. Going around the turnaround on Oseola Parkway I was able to pick out the wishers that started with me and I yelled for them. At around the time we left HS and did the little sidewalk over to the Boardwalk I was feeling a bit tired. I used the one CLifShot gel I had with me and I think it helped.
I kind enjoyed the last part of the race around world showcase. I wasn't feeling stressed and that helped to keep me relaxed. Towards the end I was seeing alot of wish shirts and hearing them scream and cheer for me. That is always uplifting and just helped me that much more to get across that finish line!!
According to my Garmi I walked 9.45 miles with an average pace of 13:51!! Yeah!! That is a PR for me!!:cool1: I had to get back to my room to shower, ice bath, eat and finish packing and get out of the room by 11am. We went back over to EPCOT to get a ride on Soarin'. That's about it for me.

**UPDATE** Official chip time was 2hr10min54sec.!!!!!!

Link to my Minnie 15K photos: http://picasaweb.google.com/dsnyfan/WDWMinnieWeekend

Superdebbie: I'm so glad you made it to the finish line!! You scared me when I saw you that time under the bridge going into the Boardwalk area.

Tracy

[Scott H]

Great results guys, Lynn's time was about 2:14 and mine was 1:47. My Ipod pace indicated 10:30ish, good enough for me.

I must compliment all the WISH folks I saw as having very very good race manners. Good to see.

Later kids we got a few more days here.

Time to get ready for teh BolderBoulder.

[Krispy]

I wanted to go ahead and write a kind of back of the pack review of the race on Saturday....

I got up about 530 since we had to leave the house about 6 threw on my walking gear and got the kids and the husband ready to go.

Arrived at epcot about 6:40 or so and headed over to the start/finish line area... I lined up at about 10 minutes to race start I found a spot at the beginning of the walkers area and happened to line up around a bunch of WISHers.

At 7 exactly the race was ready to start and off we went, there was a lot of jostling for position since it was crowded going through the start/finish line.

I QUICKLY fell to the back of the pack and thats where I stayed for the race - I was passed by a couple at about the half mile point and then it was all me - and the dreaded golf cart. At the 22 minute mark I was just hitting mile one - was I disappointed with my self? YES! I had already wanted to turn back once and made myself continue, this again made me want to just stop. I was frustrated.

But I kept going - every cast member and volunteer that I passed made me feel like I was in the front of the pack. I crossed into the park and looked up to see six beautiful hot air balloons over the epcot area, a georgous site on a Saturday morning.

As I walked across into the world showcase EVERYONE (well most everyone) was coming out - some of the runners were cheering for me which made me feel pretty good. I hit the second mile at about 45 minutes and the sweet volunteer that was working that mile marker headed with me and kept me company.

As I was coming out of the world showcase area the medics kept me company as well laughing and joking with me and letting me know that walking out of there was better than some of the alternatives and I was too close to the end to give up. I do have to comment that having the world showcase LITERALLY all to yourself it an odd but calming feeling...

When the exit was finally insight I saw two ladies that I had spoken with as we were walking out towards the parking lot at the start of the race. They had finished and came back to wait with me. That right there made me feel GREAT, two ladies I didn't even know came back to make sure I didn't finish alone. Arm in arm we walked that last tenth of a mile, with about a hundred yards left to go I got just enough energy to run to the finish - everyone that was left was still cheering like I had come in first.

While I was disappointed in myself for finishing dead last... I was proud of myself for finishing. And I haven't gotten the WISH saying out of my head all weekend - DLF > DNF >> DNS

And I will be working on a goal of getting faster and hopefully signing up for the AK 5K Marathon weekend.

Kristina

[CarolA]

:goodvibes I am just going to post a few notes since my "theme" is the same as everyone elses.

It was GREAT to go to the WISH meet Saturday and meet everyone. Very nice group, so don't be shy!

Sunday I woke up at 3:30 paniced! I dreamed the sun was shining and it was 7 am and I had missed the race. :rolleyes: That pretty much got up me. Of course I had set the alarm, left a wake up call and had the cell phone set to go off! ;)

Anyway, I met up with Stacie and her DH at the lobby of SSR where we hooked up with another couple for the taxi ride to AK. We headed towards the other green shirts and hanging around made the wait go faster!

Lined up in the 11 to 13 corral and unlike my prior Disney race (TOT) this one started ON TIME! (There's a concept!:thumbsup2 ) I had decided to do run walk intervals based on my new Galloway program. My runs were 2:22 (don't ask, that's just what I screwed up and put in the thing) with a 1 minute walk. At the first beep I couldnot get out of the way to walk, but I was doing a nice pace for me (not too fast) and just ran through it. I did that a couple of times and a couple of times I just walked through the run when I was feeling tired etc. Going down Osceola Parkway it was great to be cheered on by the faster WISHer's so I made a point of running on the left and cheering on the walkers and others I saw. Another woman near me said "your shirts make it so easy, I am looking for red" It's the "MINNIE" I think half the group wore red and black!:rotfl2:

The last mile I had to flip my run/walk. I was just out of energy....

The clock time was just over two hours, my Garmin was 1:59 or so. Haven't looked to see what the "offical" chip time was (are they up yet?) But.... I was SO HAPPY when I crossed that line and got my medal. Two hours was great for me and for the FIRST time I really thought "I can do the half" I did this with not as much training as I wanted and I made it!!!!!

I want to thank the WISH team for cheering us on at the end. Some of them even remembered my name!!!! :cheer2: :cheer2:

I went back and cheered folks on until the last one. There were a few at the end who brought tears to my eyes, the woman who after she got her medal went back and got mom... Mom was leaning on her hard, but they were going to make it!!! Lots of "teams" waiting for thier friends and racing out to hug them and congratulate them as they made it! Very nice!

I called Waldo while I was at the pool later doing laundry (Those clothes STUNK and were NOT going in my suitcase:lmao: ) I finally confessed what I had done. I had not told anyone but the WISH team that I was doing this! I think he was shocked, but he sounds very proud of me. (I guess I figured if I chickened out or got swept you guys MIGHT understand. While Waldo really tries to understand he's a much more natural runner then I am and has been running his entire life!)

I want to thank the WISH team. Your support has been invaluable!:grouphug:

(And one woman did run up behind me and say "I LOVE THE SLOGAN ON YOUR SHIRT" LOL!)

[mkymsehi]

...finishing dead last...
Kristina

Kristina, you are the last person ever to cross the finish line of the very last Minnie 15K race. You retired the race into the history books. How cool is that? Look at it this way, you savored the experience.

Way to go WISHer! :banana::cool1::thumbsup2:worship::woohoo:

[Krispy]

Kristina, you are the last person ever to cross the finish line of the very last Minnie 15K race. You retired the race into the history books. How cool is that? Look at it this way, you savored the experience.

Way to go WISHer! :banana::cool1::thumbsup2:worship::woohoo:

Was it the last 5K to? I wish I could take credit for being last in the 15K - I don't think I could have done 9 miles!

[Scott H]

Kistrina,

Way to go you should be proud of being there and doing the event. Very good job, you were in the arena and not a spectator.

[mkymsehi]

Was it the last 5K to? I wish I could take credit for being last in the 15K - I don't think I could have done 9 miles!


Ooops, just re-read that you raced on Saturday, not Sunday. I presumed your race report was for the 15K. :rotfl:

Still though, I think it was the last Minnie Weekend. Anyone out there know for sure?

[Scott H]

Minnie Report for Scott and Lynn,

We woke up and it was dark, 4:30. It was funny as I was dreaming that I was getting ready for the race. Woke up and I was not ready, bummer. Got our stuff together and went to AK, where we left the car.

Went strait to the Porta Potty lines, and then worked our way slowly to the starting area, weather was a little warmer than I expected but very tolerable.

Before I knew it the National Anthem was sung and the countdown fireworks were blasting and we were off, I waived good bye to Lynn and started running.

Not real crowded and did not have many folks in the way. Pretty easy to work my way through the masses. A few folks were passing me. Really felt folks exhibited very good race etiquette.

Water stops were plentiful and there did not seem to be many lines at the porta potties.

I knew the first part would rather void of visual stimulus, so just voided my mind and enjoyed the first 5 miles or so. I knew when I got to the Studios the scenery would be more prolific.

Through the back side of the Studios past the Hat and down Hollywood Blvd, hung a left and out the back way to the path to BWV area, over the bridge and past the BCV. Then as we approached the International Gateway to EPCOT we hung a left and came to the World Showcase by GB. KEWL!!! I really like the last couple of miles through EPCOT.

Near the fountain the picked up the pace and made it to the finish.

I seemed to miss the characters at DHS, other than Mulan and Mushou. Finish gates went smoothly, Medal, KEWL!!!!, water and powerade, then bypassed the photos, and goy some chow.

Waited for Lynn with some WISH folks, the Green shirts are easy to spot. Lynn made it and we got her some food and then watched the kids races.

Headed back to OKW and cleaned up and hit the pool. Cold enough for me to call it an Ice Bath. LOL Chatted with Jennegg. The we went to AK did a safari, and EE, caught the parade, met up with Shari P and had a diner at Rainforest, (this is becoming a tradition).

Called a night and slept pretty well.

It was great to meet so many folks and wished we could have met more, well we will see ya at the DL ½ and TOT and Marathon Weekend.

Keep up the great work one and all.

[hoosmi]

Kristina- It was the last Minnie weekend now that they have this Princess half thing in March. I say you go down in history! (It certainly makes for a great story!) :goodvibes I finished DLF in my first 5k too- it's okay. Someone has to, and looking at your fabulous picture with your medal and your family, I'm sure you'd rather be DLF than DNS!

When my daughter and I went back to the hotel after the 5k, we amused ourselves by talking about how all the people coming out of the lobby were just starting their days, and we'd already done a 5k!

My absurdly long race report is in the "where are the Minnie reports?" thread. To sum it up, I had a wonderful time, I love WISH, and I'm going to miss the Minnie. Who knew I could sum things up?!:laughing:

Jen in GA

[smileyk8]

Can i first off say what an absolute pleasure it was to meet all you guys! I loved Anne's announcement as i walked into the meet- 'IT'S SMILEYK8.... FROM THE UK!!!' made me feel special. You wishers are the friendliest bunch ever and i want to thank you for making my first disney race feel so special.

So to the race- we left POFQ at 5am, Bunnyfoo's lovely fiance took us to Epcot (thank you thank you!) and we got the bus to AK. Have to say it all worked really well but took a while as we arrived about 5.50am. Still in good time to say hi to all the glowing people and hit the portaloos- got to skip a few people as i'd remembered to bring toilet roll and some had run out :cool1:

Straight after than we headed into the start area and i got in the 7-9min per mile bit after a lot of thought. I also have to add i love how patriotic your country is, i had goosebumps listening and i'm foreign!!! So i started off running around 8.30 according to ipod and this fluctuated to just over 9 per mile throughout the race. Somewhere about half way i was passed by craig (i think) who's encouragement was so great. He looked fab, i felt hot and tired. Around 7 miles my knee was twinging like crazy, but i remembered a quote i'd read in runners world- 'pain is temporary, quitting is forever' that kept me going. I surprised myself and actually found the last mile really hard- imagined running thru epcot would be enough to keep me going.

Finished 1 hr 26min 3 secs in my first 15km :banana: and disney race. The comments from CMs of how proud they were as we ran around made me feel so special as it's such a different culture to england. Thanks to anyone who cheered- i did try to smile as i breathed!!!

Everyone did amazingly and i hope you're all proud minnie medal wearers.

[TXAng]

Joan – Loved the photos. Great job!

Tracy – Congrats on your PR. Great photos.

Scott and Lynn – WTG!

Kristina – Congrats for sticking with it and finishing! So glad to hear that there was lots of support there for you.

Carol – Great report. Congrats!

Smileyk8 – WTG!

[cobbler]

How do we find our our chip times? I used one of the black chips provided and when I enter the information on the backside of the envelope that they were in, they can't find anything.

[dsnyfan21]

Here is the link for results for the Minnie 15K:

http://results.active.com/pages/searchform.jsp?rsID=61813

Said there where 2,632 finishers.

[CarolA]

How do we find our our chip times? I used one of the black chips provided and when I enter the information on the backside of the envelope that they were in, they can't find anything.


Put in your bib number not the chip number

[cobbler]

Ok, but where? Is there another site besides the trackshack.com site?
I only see the championchip search under the race results.

[cobbler]

I found it. It is under the Minnie Marathon site through Disney sports. I was trying the trackshack like it said on the back of the chip envelope.

[MiniGirl]

Was it the last 5K to? I wish I could take credit for being last in the 15K - I don't think I could have done 9 miles!


You take credit for the 5K and I'll take credit for being the DLFer in the 15K. :lmao:

First a little background info.... I went into this race knowing I was undertrained, but I knew I could do the distance because I did finish the Half in January. As always, I was more concerned about the pace. With that in mind, I decided to go out last Thursday (or maybe Wednesday) for one more quick session. It was going to be short, but fast. Well, fast for me anyway. After a little bit of stretching and walking for 5 minutes, I pick up my pace, and within a few steps feel this terrible pain in my left calf. I slow down hoping it'll work itself out, but it didn't. I didn't want to push too far with the 15K in a few days so I went home and tried to rest it as much as possible until Sunday. So, now I'm going into the race undertrained and injured. Honestly, Sunday morning I had no idea how my leg would feel when I started.

So..... Sunday morning my dh calls to wake me up at 4:30. (I left him and the girls at home and was solo on this very short trip.) A few minutes later I get my wake up call from Stitch. :lmao: I love that wake up call. Getting ready was really easy. Since I was by myself, I was able to get everything ready and to bed early the night before and I could turn on as many lights as I needed in the morning. Anyway, I drove to Epcot and got on the bus to AK. While getting on the bus, I hear the first comments on my shirt. After she say down, a lady even took out a pen and wrote the saying on a napkin. She said she wanted to be sure to remember it. Getting to AK was easy and efficient. Of course, it seemed to take awhile to get there, and the whole time I'm thinking I can't believe I'm going to be covering this distance on foot. It seemed so long.

At AK, the WISH team was easy to spot, so we gathered and chatted. The I hit the porta potties, did some really good stretching, and went to line up. I planned to start out running as much as I could, so I lined up in the last running section. (I was really worried about the sweepers because I knew I was too slow. I figured if I could make it to the Studios I'd be safe.) Anyway, I reach the finish line and go to start my Garmin and realized I never reset the thing from the last training session that was cut short. I also was unable to reset it for some reason, so I really have no clue how I was doing or how far I had gone, etc. That was really hard. I didn't realize how indispensible it has become to me. I kept in on though because I had it set to beep whenever my pace fell slower than a 17 minute mile. I know still too slow. I just never got around to changing it.

Anyway, I'll be honest. I was ready to quit before I even made it out of the AK parking lot. My Garmin wasn't set and my leg hurt, but I kept going. Why? Because I could overhear 2 women behind me talking about my shirt. I took a little over 2 miles for my leg to stop hurting and feel pretty good, and I think it was probably around 2.5 miles that I finally was feeling comfortable with my stride. Before that, it was a constant struggle. I don't know. I was just off. We pass Mile 3 and right at the turn off to the Studios (at the start of the out and back) I see 2 people standing there with cones, and as I approach them they start to move in front of me. I remember almost screaming, "Nooooo. Wait!!!!! Not yet!" The guy with the cones smiles and says, "Don't worry. You're okay'" as he places a cone not 6 inches from my foot. I breathe a bittersweet sigh of relief. Bittersweet because I was happy that I made it past them, but I really wouldn't have minded if they had stopped me. I really love Minnie though (see my screen name), so I was happy to be on my way to getting a medal. Anyway, I turn around to see if I was the last person through. One other person was behind me, but I see them directing everyone else across the street and into the runners/walkers headed into the Studios. They didn't sweep them at all. At that point, I knew that I was sfe as long as my leg could hold out. It was very tempting, however, to walk across the medium and join the other groups of WISHers that were making their way back to the Studios. I didn't though because I wanted to do the entire 15K and I also thought there might be a mat out there that we needed to go over to make our time official. O well, I just keep going. During that out and back I passed 1 woman and there was still one behind me. She started to catch up to me and was very stressed out. Said she had never been this stressed out during a race, and then she slowed way down, and eventhough I knew we wouldn't get swept as long as we kept a steady pace, I didn't want to push it by slowing too much. I ended up leavingher and continuing on. Just before the Studios I notice all the bike medics and such swirling around me, and I ask if I'm last and was told I was. I said what about the 2 ladies behind me, and was told they stopped. The medic gave me a goal of catching up with the 2 women who were in front of me by the time I exited the Studios. These 2 were something else. They were stopping to take pics of everything, so as soon as I'd catch up to them, they'd take off running. It was kind of comical, and I neer did catch them. I did however, pass 3 other people in the Studios and a few more on the walkway to the BoardWalk. However, everytime I though I was making up some ground, I'd hear the volunteer say, "Yeah there's just 1 more after her (me)." I even questioned 1 guy about it and told him I know I had passed at least 7 people. He had a walkie talkie and asked. I heard him, but no as I got on the Boardwalk there was just 1 person behind me. I actually passed a few more there and on the way into Epcot. I mention it only because I thought I was doing pretty well considering how bad I felt at the start. I did not like being last and having everyone hovering around me and was glad to get a few people behind me, so I was left alone a bit more. I know my pace was slowing a little, but I wasn't slowing as much as the others.

When we made it into Epcot and took that right turn, I jokes about how it would be faster if we went the other way, and one of the workers actually moved the cone fo me and said I could go that way if I wanted. :scared1: I told her "No thanks. I started it and I was going to do the whole 15K." A few minutes later I really wish I had taen her up on the offer. Going over the little bridge into World Showcase, I felt a pull or a pop or something in my left calf, and I hurt. I slowed, and by the time I reached Japan I was limping. I slowed way down and again found myself wanting to quit. By the time I was backstage (right before the finishline), there was again just 1 person behind me. I slowed almost to a stop to wait for her and told her we would finish it together. Now I must admit... my motives were not pure. I remember pics from last year's Minnie, and Mickey and Minnie were both out there to escort the DLFer in. I thought that's be a cool pic to have, so I wait for the woman who was behind me. As we were walking to the line, she was in terrible pain. She was proud that she did it but embarrassed that she was finishing last. So, I did slow down right at the line and let her finish just before me since I didn't mind being the DLFer. However, I will admit that I wanted to quit. Even with just 20 yards to go, I just wanted to stop. If a chair had been there, I think I would have. My leg was absolutely throbbing. It hurt so bad. I honestly didn't know if I'd be able to take enough steps to make it across the finish line, but I did. After all, the nearest chairs were at the med tent on the other side of the line. I went there, sat to put Biofreeze on my leg and started cramping up. I couldn't even move. It was such a different feeling from the Half. After the Half, I was on a high. This time, I'll be honest.... I was just glad it was over.

However, I want to end on a positive note, so let me say that the people that make up the endurance running/walking community are the best, and WISHers are at the top of that list. The cheers for those of us in the back are amazing, and the thing is... I know many of you would've stayed to cheer for the last person even if it wasn't a WISHer. I heard some of the announcers comments and must say I found them to be extremely humbling. I also know I didn't get to thank any of you. By the time I felt okay to get up and walk to my car, I didn't see any lime green shirts. I want all of you to know though how much I appreciate ya'll and thank you for staying until the end. Also for the encouragement and tips along the way. Life has been crazy for me, and I haven't been able to make it to the boards at all for the last month or more. I haven't been posting my miles or anything, and I feel awful about that. However, ya'll were all still so welcoming and friendly to me at the meet on Saturday and again on Sunday. Truth is... I don't know when things around here will calm down, and I don't know how long it will take my leg to heal; so I don't know how long before I'll be able to post again. So, in case it is awhile, let me just go on record as saying WISH team ROCKS!!! Really, ya'll are the best.

BTW, I wanted to add that my chip time was 2:38:05. That is 90 seconds slower than my 15K split time at the Half in January. Considering how much I slowed down (at one point the Garmin showed me doing a blistering 25 minute mile) and how much pain I was in, I think that was pretty good.

After going back to the hotel and getting cleaned up, I went back to the Studios for the CM preview of Midway Mania. It was very cute and a lot of fun. I was also wanting to get a pic with Minnie and my medal. She was at the hat, and right when I got in line, a CM told me the line was closed. Bummer!!! I hope to take my kiddos there in a couple of weeks, so I'll bring my medal and get a pic then. I hope.

Thanks again WISH team. For everything.

[Superdebbie]

Hey Minigirl: I was one of those persons who had to take the short-cut. They were putting the cones out - around 100 feet in front of me. So glad they didn't sweep me. But, I was wondering - do you have any idea how much of a break I got? Was it 1/2 mile, 3/4 mile, 1 mile???? Any idea? I want to know because my chip time was 2:19+, but of course, since I was given a short-cut, I really didn't go the whole 9.3 miles. Trying to half-way figure out my actual time. Thanks!

[Krispy]

You take credit for the 5K and I'll take credit for being the DLFer in the 15K. :lmao:

First a little background info.... I went into this race knowing I was undertrained, but I knew I could do the distance because I did finish the Half in January. As always, I was more concerned about the pace. With that in mind, I decided to go out last Thursday (or maybe Wednesday) for one more quick session. It was going to be short, but fast. Well, fast for me anyway. After a little bit of stretching and walking for 5 minutes, I pick up my pace, and within a few steps feel this terrible pain in my left calf. I slow down hoping it'll work itself out, but it didn't. I didn't want to push too far with the 15K in a few days so I went home and tried to rest it as much as possible until Sunday. So, now I'm going into the race undertrained and injured. Honestly, Sunday morning I had no idea how my leg would feel when I started.

So..... Sunday morning my dh calls to wake me up at 4:30. (I left him and the girls at home and was solo on this very short trip.) A few minutes later I get my wake up call from Stitch. :lmao: I love that wake up call. Getting ready was really easy. Since I was by myself, I was able to get everything ready and to bed early the night before and I could turn on as many lights as I needed in the morning. Anyway, I drove to Epcot and got on the bus to AK. While getting on the bus, I hear the first comments on my shirt. After she say down, a lady even took out a pen and wrote the saying on a napkin. She said she wanted to be sure to remember it. Getting to AK was easy and efficient. Of course, it seemed to take awhile to get there, and the whole time I'm thinking I can't believe I'm going to be covering this distance on foot. It seemed so long.

At AK, the WISH team was easy to spot, so we gathered and chatted. The I hit the porta potties, did some really good stretching, and went to line up. I planned to start out running as much as I could, so I lined up in the last running section. (I was really worried about the sweepers because I knew I was too slow. I figured if I could make it to the Studios I'd be safe.) Anyway, I reach the finish line and go to start my Garmin and realized I never reset the thing from the last training session that was cut short. I also was unable to reset it for some reason, so I really have no clue how I was doing or how far I had gone, etc. That was really hard. I didn't realize how indispensible it has become to me. I kept in on though because I had it set to beep whenever my pace fell slower than a 17 minute mile. I know still too slow. I just never got around to changing it.

Anyway, I'll be honest. I was ready to quit before I even made it out of the AK parking lot. My Garmin wasn't set and my leg hurt, but I kept going. Why? Because I could overhear 2 women behind me talking about my shirt. I took a little over 2 miles for my leg to stop hurting and feel pretty good, and I think it was probably around 2.5 miles that I finally was feeling comfortable with my stride. Before that, it was a constant struggle. I don't know. I was just off. We pass Mile 3 and right at the turn off to the Studios (at the start of the out and back) I see 2 people standing there with cones, and as I approach them they start to move in front of me. I remember almost screaming, "Nooooo. Wait!!!!! Not yet!" The guy with the cones smiles and says, "Don't worry. You're okay'" as he places a cone not 6 inches from my foot. I breathe a bittersweet sigh of relief. Bittersweet because I was happy that I made it past them, but I really wouldn't have minded if they had stopped me. I really love Minnie though (see my screen name), so I was happy to be on my way to getting a medal. Anyway, I turn around to see if I was the last person through. One other person was behind me, but I see them directing everyone else across the street and into the runners/walkers headed into the Studios. They didn't sweep them at all. At that point, I knew that I was sfe as long as my leg could hold out. It was very tempting, however, to walk across the medium and join the other groups of WISHers that were making their way back to the Studios. I didn't though because I wanted to do the entire 15K and I also thought there might be a mat out there that we needed to go over to make our time official. O well, I just keep going. During that out and back I passed 1 woman and there was still one behind me. She started to catch up to me and was very stressed out. Said she had never been this stressed out during a race, and then she slowed way down, and eventhough I knew we wouldn't get swept as long as we kept a steady pace, I didn't want to push it by slowing too much. I ended up leavingher and continuing on. Just before the Studios I notice all the bike medics and such swirling around me, and I ask if I'm last and was told I was. I said what about the 2 ladies behind me, and was told they stopped. The medic gave me a goal of catching up with the 2 women who were in front of me by the time I exited the Studios. These 2 were something else. They were stopping to take pics of everything, so as soon as I'd catch up to them, they'd take off running. It was kind of comical, and I neer did catch them. I did however, pass 3 other people in the Studios and a few more on the walkway to the BoardWalk. However, everytime I though I was making up some ground, I'd hear the volunteer say, "Yeah there's just 1 more after her (me)." I even questioned 1 guy about it and told him I know I had passed at least 7 people. He had a walkie talkie and asked. I heard him, but no as I got on the Boardwalk there was just 1 person behind me. I actually passed a few more there and on the way into Epcot. I mention it only because I thought I was doing pretty well considering how bad I felt at the start. I did not like being last and having everyone hovering around me and was glad to get a few people behind me, so I was left alone a bit more. I know my pace was slowing a little, but I wasn't slowing as much as the others.

When we made it into Epcot and took that right turn, I jokes about how it would be faster if we went the other way, and one of the workers actually moved the cone fo me and said I could go that way if I wanted. :scared1: I told her "No thanks. I started it and I was going to do the whole 15K." A few minutes later I really wish I had taen her up on the offer. Going over the little bridge into World Showcase, I felt a pull or a pop or something in my left calf, and I hurt. I slowed, and by the time I reached Japan I was limping. I slowed way down and again found myself wanting to quit. By the time I was backstage (right before the finishline), there was again just 1 person behind me. I slowed almost to a stop to wait for her and told her we would finish it together. Now I must admit... my motives were not pure. I remember pics from last year's Minnie, and Mickey and Minnie were both out there to escort the DLFer in. I thought that's be a cool pic to have, so I wait for the woman who was behind me. As we were walking to the line, she was in terrible pain. She was proud that she did it but embarrassed that she was finishing last. So, I did slow down right at the line and let her finish just before me since I didn't mind being the DLFer. However, I will admit that I wanted to quit. Even with just 20 yards to go, I just wanted to stop. If a chair had been there, I think I would have. My leg was absolutely throbbing. It hurt so bad. I honestly didn't know if I'd be able to take enough steps to make it across the finish line, but I did. After all, the nearest chairs were at the med tent on the other side of the line. I went there, sat to put Biofreeze on my leg and started cramping up. I couldn't even move. It was such a different feeling from the Half. After the Half, I was on a high. This time, I'll be honest.... I was just glad it was over.

However, I want to end on a positive note, so let me say that the people that make up the endurance running/walking community are the best, and WISHers are at the top of that list. The cheers for those of us in the back are amazing, and the thing is... I know many of you would've stayed to cheer for the last person even if it wasn't a WISHer. I heard some of the announcers comments and must say I found them to be extremely humbling. I also know I didn't get to thank any of you. By the time I felt okay to get up and walk to my car, I didn't see any lime green shirts. I want all of you to know though how much I appreciate ya'll and thank you for staying until the end. Also for the encouragement and tips along the way. Life has been crazy for me, and I haven't been able to make it to the boards at all for the last month or more. I haven't been posting my miles or anything, and I feel awful about that. However, ya'll were all still so welcoming and friendly to me at the meet on Saturday and again on Sunday. Truth is... I don't know when things around here will calm down, and I don't know how long it will take my leg to heal; so I don't know how long before I'll be able to post again. So, in case it is awhile, let me just go on record as saying WISH team ROCKS!!! Really, ya'll are the best.

BTW, I wanted to add that my chip time was 2:38:05. That is 90 seconds slower than my 15K split time at the Half in January. Considering how much I slowed down (at one point the Garmin showed me doing a blistering 25 minute mile) and how much pain I was in, I think that was pretty good.

After going back to the hotel and getting cleaned up, I went back to the Studios for the CM preview of Midway Mania. It was very cute and a lot of fun. I was also wanting to get a pic with Minnie and my medal. She was at the hat, and right when I got in line, a CM told me the line was closed. Bummer!!! I hope to take my kiddos there in a couple of weeks, so I'll bring my medal and get a pic then. I hope.

Thanks again WISH team. For everything.


From one DLF'er to another - I had tears in my eyes reading this - I know how you felt with the pain and everything - congratulations on finishing - another WISHer told me on my thread you went down in history as the last finisher of the last Minnie 15K! :) At least we made history together! :cool1:

[MiniGirl]

Hey Minigirl: I was one of those persons who had to take the short-cut. They were putting the cones out - around 100 feet in front of me. So glad they didn't sweep me. But, I was wondering - do you have any idea how much of a break I got? Was it 1/2 mile, 3/4 mile, 1 mile???? Any idea? I want to know because my chip time was 2:19+, but of course, since I was given a short-cut, I really didn't go the whole 9.3 miles. Trying to half-way figure out my actual time. Thanks!

I honestly don't know. I went back and looked at the map, and it shows the Mile 3 Marker a little after the short cut. I would've sworn it was before it though. However, it is all a little foggy to me as well. Do you remember if you saw Mile 3 or not? Again looking at the map, I'd say it was between 1.25 and 1.5 miles. Here's the map. http://adisneyworldsports.disney.go.com/media/dwws_v0220/en_US/pdf/2008Minnie_Marathon_15K_Map.pdf

[mkymsehi]

Kristina and Eva go down in history as the WISHers to retired the Minnie 5K and 15K. :cool1: :banana: :woohoo: :thumbsup2 :worship: :yay: :cheer2:

[Superdebbie]

Minigirl: the shortcut was DEFINITELY AFTER the 3 mile marker. I'm just so glad that I wasn't swept. I am very short and have such a short stride when I walk, that it's really impossible for me to walk a 15 minute mile. So, unless I can lose more weight and learn to walk/jog, I don't think I'll be able to do this again. But, at least I got my medal!!! :banana:

[dsnyfan21]

Debbie: Hey girl, you were looking good and I remember our conversation in the AK parking lot about your short stride. You can get faster....did you hear me?? You can get faster. It does take time, patience and practice but you can. I never thought I could about a year ago and with patience and time and working on technique for quite awhile, it has happened. Just keep at it. One foot in front of the other gets it done. Keep your head up.!!

[MiniGirl]

Minigirl: the shortcut was DEFINITELY AFTER the 3 mile marker. I'm just so glad that I wasn't swept. I am very short and have such a short stride when I walk, that it's really impossible for me to walk a 15 minute mile. So, unless I can lose more weight and learn to walk/jog, I don't think I'll be able to do this again. But, at least I got my medal!!! :banana:

Okay, that makes me feel better. I wasn't losing my mind. I was so sure it was right after Mile 3, and then I looked at that map and got all confuzzled. LOL!!!

I have a shorter stride, so I do know what you mean. However, regardless of your stride, you can still increase your pace -- although it may not seem like it. I, too, am over weight. I'd like to lose about 60 lbs, and my weight has stayed pretty consistent since I've started doing all this, and I have managed to increase my pace. Next up for me is the EE Challenge, so I am laying off the distance training until after that. Apparently, doing longer distances are not the most efficient way for me to lose weight. I need to do shorter distances and more cross training, so that is what I will be concentrating on.

Anyway, I'm glad you got your medal.

[Lexxiefern]

Eva - you did wonderfully!! I am so glad I was actually able to hang around this time and cheer for everyone. It was very cool seeing you finish!

Becky

[smileyk8]

anyone noticed that the pictures are online- www.asiorders.com click on 15km women run the world. I'm amazed there are so many on there- and some nasty ones of me but hey we're runners we're not meant to look like princesses :rotfl: (that's what i tell myself)

[wtpclc]

Congratulations to everyone! My report is on teh other thread too.

I just want to say again that I am more impressed by those of you who fought and made it through, than anyone who finishes first. Especially, uour two DLFs. I am proud of you fro hanging in there. I have bene close before adn just have to think about our shirts and how I would not be able to show my face here if I gave up so I wouldn't be DLF. Congratulations fro sticking it out!

Eva - Hope oyu heal quickly adn that life gets better for you soon!

[nepatsfan73]

... but hey we're runners we're not meant to look like princesses :rotfl: (that's what i tell myself)

Then what's up with the Princess themed half marathon? I thought you were all princesses (some having more pirate in them then others though)? ;)

[jeanneg]

OK, I'm going to try to post some photos that I have on my camera. My daughters boyfriend got lots more but he won't be able to make a CD until next week. With sincere apologies to Minnie.......
http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f129/jeagermito/SN850046.jpg

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f129/jeagermito/SN850047.jpg

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f129/jeagermito/SN850054.jpg

[jeanneg]

And here are some from ASI:

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f129/jeagermito/35612-211-024f.jpg

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f129/jeagermito/35612-185-031f.jpg

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f129/jeagermito/35612-348-025f.jpg

[Tiger Lily 03]

I want to make a short post after reading all of the reports it is late and I am still tired from the weekend.

It was fantastic fun to connect with the WISH team once again. I was able to meet new people and chat once again with folks I've met. Ya know though, I am so bad at putting together names/faces even that we've met before. I know many of you know what I mean. I am sorry for that my friends.

81 DAYS! Yep, it was 81 days earlier that I had surgery. On the 4th of this May I celebrated life! It was fantastic to be putting in those steps and I feel totally blessed for having been given the opportunity to do so as part of our WISH Team. Perfect! The whole experience was perfect!

I've got a few pics that I want to share and will do that later.

[getnthinr]

OK, I'm going to try to post some photos that I have on my camera.

Jeanne, loved the photos and especially loved the team spirit you guys showed with the bandanas -- What an awesome idea! Thanks for sharing those!!!

My photos and longwinded report are on the other thread:
http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=24987100&postcount=66

[getnthinr]

81 DAYS! Yep, it was 81 days earlier that I had surgery. On the 4th of this May I celebrated life! It was fantastic to be putting in those steps and I feel totally blessed for having been given the opportunity to do so as part of our WISH Team. Perfect! The whole experience was perfect!

I've got a few pics that I want to share and will do that later.

So good to see you there! Can't wait for the photos!