Princess Half-Marathon - It's Official

[blizzard]

Here is the link to the new Princess Half-Marathon (and 5K) to be held March 6-8, 2009

Disney Princess Half-Marathon Weekend (http://disneyworldsports.disney.go.com/dwws/en_US/marathon/events/detail?name=PrincessMarathonWeekendInfoDetailPage)

March 7 - Family 5K - $40 - Min Pace 15mpm
March 8 - Princess Half Marathon - $120 - Min Pace 16mpm - Starts at Richard Petty Speedway (1 lap around track), Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Finishes at Epcot

Transportation provided only for select hotels (Pop Century, Caribbean Beach, Polynesian)

[monte]

So no Minnie next year?:confused: I wonder why they aren't having it in May if they're going to do away with the Minnie? Rats.

[swim-mom]

OMG, thank you so much for putting that up!!

I just told DH that I am doing it, next year!!! I graduate from grad school, so that is my early present to me :)

:banana: :banana:

Registration begins Monday MAY 5th!!!

It is expensive :( , more than what I thought..............

[SamSam]

Wahoo! I missed the Jan. 1/2, so will definitely be signing up for this. It means a change in plans, but totally worth it. I'm at the airport right now to fly down for the Minnie 15K and I am thrilled that this new event is up. I wish
it was in May but I can work around that.
Sharon

[swim-mom]

Wahoo! I missed the Jan. 1/2, so will definitely be signing up for this. It means a change in plans, but totally worth it. I'm at the airport right now to fly down for the Minnie 15K and I am thrilled that this new event is up. I wish
it was in May but I can work around that.
Sharon

Good luck Sharon :) I miss I could be there!!! :banana:

[ultramickeymouse]

Here is the details from Disney's Press Release sent to me. I don't know where they plan to come up with 10,000 when they couldn't fill 4,000 for the Minnie:confused3 New course:confused3

Inaugural Disney’s Princess Half Marathon Weekend to Create Fairy Tale Experience for Runners in 2009

Fantasy-filled weekend to feature popular Disney princesses; Event expected to rank among nation’s biggest women-specific endurance events

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (May 2, 2008) – Disney’s Wide World of Sports is creating Disney’s Princess Half Marathon Weekend, a new fantasy-filled event in 2009 designed to bring to life the “princess” in women runners of all ages and abilities.

The weekend event, scheduled for March 6-8, 2009, involves a health and wellness expo tailored for women, as well as two road races – a fun 5K and a signature 13.1-mile half marathon – through multiple Walt Disney World theme parks, all themed around Disney’s popular princess characters. In all, more than 10,000 runners are expected to participate, making it one of the country’s largest road races geared toward women and the only race runners can experience a storybook start and a fairy tale finish. Women and their family and friends will also have the opportunity to participate in a post race celebration at Magic Kingdom.

Disney’s Princess Half Marathon is the latest addition to Disney’s Endurance Series, which gives recreational athletes of all ages and abilities the chance to walk, jog, run, bike and swim their way “around the world.” From running marathons to road races and triathlons, participating athletes from around the world compete to stay in shape, to achieve personal-best times and often to raise donations for charitable causes.

“Disney’s Princess Half Marathon Weekend is a wonderful opportunity for women and girls of all ages. Disney princesses have attributes that all women want to possess: courage, loyalty, strength, commitment and perseverance. We feel this weekend is an opportunity to recognize those attributes within each woman and celebrate their accomplishments,” said Kathleen Duran, sports area manager for Disney’s Wide World of Sports.

Registration for Disney’s Princess Half Marathon Weekend opens on Monday, May 5, and is $120 for the half marathon and $40 for the 5K event. Participants can register online at www.disneyprincesshalfmarathon.com, beginning, Monday, May 5.

[swim-mom]

What does it mean by "teams"? If I were to sign up with my sister do we pay one amount or do we pay $120 per person........so $220 for the both of us???

Sorry for the question, but this is new to me. I have never run in Disney before :)

[ultramickeymouse]

What does it mean by "teams"? If I were to sign up with my sister do we pay one amount or do we pay $120 per person........so $220 for the both of us???

Sorry for the question, but this is new to me. I have never run in Disney before :)

You each pay $120 and a $10 fee on top of that for being a "team"

[swim-mom]

You each pay $120 and a $10 fee on top of that for being a "team"

Disneys way of getting an extra $10 per person??? Anything to make a buck :laughing:

[ultramickeymouse]

Disneys way of getting an extra $10 per person??? Anything to make a buck :laughing:
Only $10 per team or $5 a person:) Not soo bad!

[chimera]

You each pay $120 and a $10 fee on top of that for being a "team"

That is crazy talk :sad2: . That's more than the Donald half...that tiara medal better be solid gold and dipped in chocolate.

[ultramickeymouse]

That is crazy talk :sad2: . That's more than the Donald half...that tiara medal better be solid gold and dipped in chocolate.

Mel,

Better get ready for big increases in the 2010 WDW 1/2. I would expect $130!!!

Miss you at Minnie this year. We appreciated the ride LY:grouphug:

[monte]

Missed the Minnie....rats!:guilty:

[ultramickeymouse]

What I find interesting is that for the $120 you don't even get transportation to the race unless you stay at a "select" resort. How are the 10,000 runners who don't stay there going to get to the race???

[swim-mom]

What I find interesting is that for the $120 you don't even get transportation to the race unless you stay at a "select" resort. How are the 10,000 runners who don't stay there going to get to the race???

OK, now you have me thinking............what are "select" resorts????? I am a DVCer, but I am not sure where I am going to stay.

I thought this was going to be easy, but I guess this requires alot more thinking then I thought :confused: :confused:

The only thing I can say is HELP!!!!!:eek:

[blizzard]

OK, now you have me thinking............what are "select" resorts????? I am a DVCer, but I am not sure where I am going to stay.

I thought this was going to be easy, but I guess this requires alot more thinking then I thought :confused: :confused:

The only thing I can say is HELP!!!!!:eek:

Select resorts for this event are Pop Century, Caribbean Beach, and the Polynesian. No DVC resorts on the list. Looks like if you want to do DVC, you will either have to drive or cab.

[swim-mom]

Select resorts for this event are Pop Century, Caribbean Beach, and the Polynesian. No DVC resorts on the list. Looks like if you want to do DVC, you will either have to drive or cab.

That is crazy !!!! I have four children and of course DH, so I would have to get 2 rooms..............way too much money NOW.

The 1/2 in January has transportation from DVC's right?

[ultramickeymouse]

Yes, the Jan races have transportation from ALL resorts(including DVC).

I am getting tired of having to pay for a cab because I invested over $150,000 in DVC. I guess if you stay at BW, you can walk back through to your room???

[blizzard]

The 1/2 in January has transportation from DVC's right?

Yes, during marathon weekend there is transportation available from all Disney resorts.

If I were in your situation, I would DVC and just take a taxi, rent a car, or share a ride to the starting line. (I'm sure there are others who would be at the same resort) Then when the race is over, you will have the availability of general Disney transportation back to your resort. I certainly would not rent 2 rooms (although Disney seems to be offering reduced rates at their "select hotels" for these events. No rates up yet for this event though.)

[swim-mom]

That changes everything for me now.

Renting a car, for 6 people is crazy because I would only use it once to get to the race. Getting two rooms is crazy as well.

A taxi, well that is an option but again even more money to spend!!!

It may look like the 1/2 in 2010 is a better option for me, since 09 is full.

[CarolA]

Here's my suggestion.

Send them an email. Tell them that if they want your $120 they need transport. LOL!

Since they want 10,000 less then TWO months after the half I think they are going to have a problem getting them. Perhaps if people say "If you had done X," they will listen!

[Kristi1357]

:sad2:

[windwalker]

Well WISHer mates it looks like we need to tell Disney sports what we think.

Walking Panda:hippie:

[ultramickeymouse]

I looked at DVC charts and that time of the year is the second highest season. It takes 30% more points than Jan.

I will have to skip as only a month and a half after I get back from WDW and the Dopey. Money doesn't grow on trees:(

I can't imagine them getting 10,000 runners the first year. I would expect that they will reverse their decision on transportation once people start planning and reading the info.

[princessrunner]

Robert, I am in full agreement. You have the marathon weekend in January and you expect 10,000 in March? I think that is kind of rediculous. I think they would stand a better chance of getting that number of runners in May. Secondly, to start this for 2009 and then have the 5th anniversary of Goofy in 2010... given the choice for the second year of the Princess half or the 5th anniversary of Goofy, where do you think the money will be spent?

We have done WDW in March thinking we were avoiding spring break (ours is in April) but we were quite shocked to be inundated with families on spring break from the west. It was one of the busier times that we have been to WDW.

I do believe a group effort to Disney Sports is in order. It worked for ToT and maybe it will work here too.

[Tinks]

Wow! I am most surprised that they are moving it to March! When I read your post, Princessrunner, I kept saying to myself, why are you saying March??? Then I went back and re-read the OP. :rolleyes:

Well, I am obviously out. More so because I am 9000 miles away and not the big changes, but really March would not have been a good fit for me anyway. I enjoy the Flower and Garden Festival and May too much. Plus the cost and the theme aren't to my liking as much as the Minnie.

R.I.P. Minnie :flower3: :guilty:

[Villains_Rock]

So I'm confused. Can I not sign up if I don't have a partner? It's very vague to me...I know with the Minnie you had the option of a partner...:confused3

[princessrunner]

The way I read it is you can sign up as an individual for the $120 but if you WANT to sign up as a team, that will cost you $10 more per team.

[monte]

Looks like I'll be doing the TOT in Oct.09'...need to change my ressies from May to Oct. It's ok because I want to participate in the TOT as well.:goodvibes

[windwalker]

Looks like I'll be doing the TOT in Oct.09'...need to change my ressies from May to Oct. It's ok because I want to participate in the TOT as well.:goodvibes


MONTE IS DOING ToT:banana:

[ultramickeymouse]

I do believe a group effort to Disney Sports is in order. It worked for ToT and maybe it will work here too.

Not to throw water on the fire, but the emails stating the pace requirements for ToT was 2 1/2 hrs haven't still made it to the website a month later.

Bringing a copy of the email when your getting swept won't allow you to continue. They will say the website stated 16 min pace and the rep was quoting the time limit of EEC.

My contact with Disney still mentions the 16 min pace. I would trust the website and a Disney manager over a rep. I just don't want people to signup and get swept. I want everyone to have a great Disney experience and not disappointment or anger.

[nepatsfan73]

March would be a no go for me to travel to WDW again. Too close to January and I will need to build up sky miles again. As the prices continue to increase for the WDW events, I will probably only go to one event per year and do other local/closer halfs at other times of the year. Maybe I'll do the inaugrual men's WDW Viallians half when they have that to balance the princess half. The expo can be geared towards home brewing, prostate issues, ED, how best to write your name in the snow and other men's related topics.

[ultramickeymouse]

March would be a no go for me to travel to WDW again. Too close to January and I will need to build up sky miles again. As the prices continue to increase for the WDW events, I will probably only go to one event per year and do other local/closer halfs at other times of the year. Maybe I'll do the inaugrual men's WDW Viallians half when they have that to balance the princess half. The expo can be geared towards home brewing, prostate issues, ED, how best to write your name in the snow and other men's related topics.
Love the idea:)

I am forwarding your post to my contact at Disney:thumbsup2

[Big Vic]

March would be a no go for me to travel to WDW again. Too close to January and I will need to build up sky miles again. As the prices continue to increase for the WDW events, I will probably only go to one event per year and do other local/closer halfs at other times of the year. Maybe I'll do the inaugrual men's WDW Viallians half when they have that to balance the princess half. The expo can be geared towards home brewing, prostate issues, ED, how best to write your name in the snow and other men's related topics.

I'd like to see a "guys" race at WDW.

[ultramickeymouse]

I'd like to see a "guys" race at WDW.

Vic: Can you name at least one "Mens" only race??? I can name numerous "Women" only races across the country.

Never will happen:sad2:

[Steffwalks]

Speaking from the female perspective, I would love to see a Men's only race! Why, getting into the seminars (especially that snow writing one in Orlando :lmao: ) could be awesome! Or, it could be a real dud but good for a laugh or two depending on the snow (what snow?), the persons involved and a number of other factors. That being said, I think it's a fine idea!!! I think it's discrimination when healthy males can't play together as the princesses vie for their attention along the way! As a happily married woman I would have to settle for Wish watcher only. :cloud9:

[monte]

MONTE IS DOING ToT:banana:


Dave,

Are you participating in the 2009 TOT? That would be great to see everyone again.:goodvibes

[swim-mom]

I looked at DVC charts and that time of the year is the second highest season. It takes 30% more points than Jan.

OTE]

Well, that changes my mind too.........I need a 2bd villa and I need every point to count. We generally go down every 10-11 months, but that would kill me...............

[QUOTE=princessrunner;24905160]Robert, I am in full agreement. You have the marathon weekend in January and you expect 10,000 in March? I think that is kind of rediculous. I think they would stand a better chance of getting that number of runners in May. Secondly, to start this for 2009 and then have the 5th anniversary of Goofy in 2010... given the choice for the second year of the Princess half or the 5th anniversary of Goofy, where do you think the money will be spent?

We have done WDW in March thinking we were avoiding spring break (ours is in April) but we were quite shocked to be inundated with families on spring break from the west. It was one of the busier times that we have been to WDW.

I do believe a group effort to Disney Sports is in order. It worked for ToT and maybe it will work here too.

Thank you for bringing up the Spring Break aspect, because I hate crowds like that we did that once and never again!!! It looks like the 2010 is when I will do my first race in WDW...............unless I can figure something out.

Right now, I am just disappointed:confused:

[ultramickeymouse]

I forgot no Flower & Garden either in March either. Another reason I liked May better.

[Big Vic]

Vic: Can you name at least one "Mens" only race??? I can name numerous "Women" only races across the country.

Never will happen:sad2:

Yeah, you're right. What was I thinking? :confused3

[Superdebbie]

Hey boys: Haven't you heard? WOMEN RULE THE WORLD!! LOL :lmao:

[Creativebeth]

I just booked a hotel for the race weekend at the Hyatt. They have a room for $99.00 a night. My dh book us two! Just thought I would let you all know. http://www.hyatt.com/hyatt/reservations/flow6/place/propSelectedHotelRates.jsp?xactionid=119b6c0552c&_requestid=362076. See you next year!

Beth

[cdn_gal_eeyore]

Peak season and less than two months from the marathon weekend..??

Plus a princess themed half and you don't even get to run through Cinderella's castle??

I'm not rushing to hand over my $120 just yet...

[39CINDERELLA]

Peak season and less than two months from the marathon weekend..??

Plus a princess themed half and you don't even get to run through Cinderella's castle??

I'm not rushing to hand over my $120 just yet...

Exactly....how can it be princess themed and not go through the castle!
As a princess I demand a change! LOLprincess:

[princessrunner]

I have to say that my suggestion would be to follow along with the Pirate and Princess party and do a Pirate and Princess half marathon. I know Minnie and the Go Red 5K were generally directed toward women but they were not exclusive to them. And yes, not running through Cindy's castle during a Princess half marathon should be considered a mortal sin. :lmao:

[hoosmi]

Yes, yes, yes-- how can they not run through the Castle!?! It looks like the same basic route as the Minnie (which is really pretty boring without the MK:rolleyes1 ). I'm already signed up for the half in January. I don't even want to bother dragging my family down for another race (and spending the cash) if it doesn't hit the MK... plus it's the inaugural one and the transportation looks iffy- I did that whole traffic thing for ToT- not good. Hmmm...

I don't even know if a really good medal could entice me... and that's saying a lot!;)

Jen in GA

[ultramickeymouse]

Jen: I agree it needs to go through MK and the Castle. I think what they didn't want is a rehash of the Jan 1/2 2 months later. I think they wanted to keep the Minnie course with a few extra miles to make it a 1/2. This also gives the Jan 1/2 runners a feel for the back part of the marathon they never see.:confused3

[tigger2esq]

I was looking forward to this but now I might have to pass. Princess but no castle? they just took the WORST part of the full marathon and made it its own race. I seriosuly have no desire to relive THAT... LOL
the MK is my favorite part of the race. PLus--$120 and I have to find my own way to the start ?? are they nuts?

[Twingle]

Hi everyone - total running newbie here. I've been tossing around the idea of running a Disney marathon since January, and the Princess Half-Marathon would work great for me time wise - since it's in March, and I have approximately ten months to train, LOL.

Those of you that have raced at Disney before don't seem to excited about this race, given the course and fee. Would this race not be a good choice for my first Disney race?

Thanks for reading, and any info you can share.

[ultramickeymouse]

For me, its is not the race in itself. I always do the Goofy and come across country in Jan. To hard for another trip 1 1/2 months later.

I think most are just getting tired of increased fees(what isn't going up in life) and the lack of transportation. They always provide in Jan races but not a new 10,000 runner weekend:confused3 I feel they will change that to all resorts once they get all the complaints or after the race when they have major traffic issues. I presume they are going to bus runners from the finish(EPCOT) to the start. If not there will be lots of runners trying to get back to their cars without WDW transportation???

[Tinks]

I guess I am also frustrated that they changed to a 1/2 marathon, too. I know that a 15K race isn't as popular a distance for a race but it seemed to suit me. The 1/2 marathon is a bit long for my taste and I found the 15K challenging but still within a distance that I could try for time.

I don't know why I care so much right now because I couldn't make either race for a while but still!

[chimera]

Hi everyone - total running newbie here. I've been tossing around the idea of running a Disney marathon since January, and the Princess Half-Marathon would work great for me time wise - since it's in March, and I have approximately ten months to train, LOL.

Those of you that have raced at Disney before don't seem to excited about this race, given the course and fee. Would this race not be a good choice for my first Disney race?

Thanks for reading, and any info you can share.

A wise WISHer said this weekend that they thought the Princess half was designed to take the overflow from the Donald since it closed so early this year.

As for whether or not it's a good first race, this is its first year so hard to say. What we're comparing it to is the current half in Jan where you have transportation from ALL WDW resorts to and from race start and finish. You also get free admission to Pleasure Island for a post-race party.

The Princess race costs more for registration and provides less. For the post-race, you get to purchase a discounted Pirate and Princess party ticket as your post-race event.

Donald is roughly the first half of the marathon (without the morning tour through EPCOT), Princess looks like the back half of the marathon course.

March is spring break so resort costs for cash/DVC are higher than Jan/May. That also means the parks will be more crowded.

IMHO, $120 for a half marathon, without all the glitz and excitement of WDW marathon weekend, is not likely to be worth it. I just paid $45 to register for the Sarasota half on Feb 15. I think you would get more value out of the registration fee if you do the Donald half in January. I think Anthony Travel still has slots available if you don't want to wait for 2010.

I'm a little bitter though, I really liked the Minnie, the distance, the time of year, all that stuff. I'm actually starting to wonder about Disney's Endurance group. They've gotten rid of Minnie, offered a 5K that costs $100 with no other option for folks that already have park admission and now the Princess half at $120. I'm ready to send my email and boycott WDW races other than marathon weekend.

[swim-mom]

[QUOTE=chimera;24938398]

As for whether or not it's a good first race, this is its first year so hard to say. What we're comparing it to is the current half in Jan where you have transportation from ALL WDW resorts to and from race start and finish. You also get free admission to Pleasure Island for a post-race party.

The Princess race costs more for registration and provides less. For the post-race, you get to purchase a discounted Pirate and Princess party ticket as your post-race event.

Donald is roughly the first half of the marathon (without the morning tour through EPCOT), Princess looks like the back half of the marathon course.

March is spring break so resort costs for cash/DVC are higher than Jan/May. That also means the parks will be more crowded.

IMHO, $120 for a half marathon, without all the glitz and excitement of WDW marathon weekend, is not likely to be worth it. I just paid $45 to register for the Sarasota half on Feb 15. I think you would get more value out of the registration fee if you do the Donald half in January. I think Anthony Travel still has slots available if you don't want to wait for 2010.

QUOTE]

With your post and everyone elses I am going to pass on this run. I love the idea, but not when I can not use my DVC.

I also learned my lesson, I need to register for the 1/2 ASAP to make sure I can get in. In Feb I printed the application and doubted myself and my ability to actually do it. Now I am running over 3 miles at a time, and I know I can do it :)

So I guess 2010 is my year!!!!

[cobbler]

I am disappointed in this. I am glad I was able to run in the last Minnie and get that medal.

And why move it to peak season? We were told at the Expo that there have been a lot of people expressing their displeasure (at the medal table they had set up) and that they would offer discounts to certain hotels. But honestly how much of a discount are they going to give during peak season? Not much I bet.

I won't be going down, that is for sure.

[ultramickeymouse]

I'm a little bitter though, I really liked the Minnie, the distance, the time of year, all that stuff. I'm actually starting to wonder about Disney's Endurance group. They've gotten rid of Minnie, offered a 5K that costs $100 with no other option for folks that already have park admission and now the Princess half at $120. I'm ready to send my email and boycott WDW races other than marathon weekend.

Don't forget they removed the 6.5K at ToT and shorter the time allotment(pace) for the 13K.

Another thing missed by most is the 2008 National Kidney Foundation 5K - Run/Walk was on Sat March 8 this year at EPCOT. That means Disney bumped a charity event for its own new race. It was only $25 while Disney wants $40 for basically the same race???

With no DVC discount($5) and Active fees(add $8 since no mail in), this hits us hard. Now it is really amost $130. They even raised the price of the pins by almost $3(33% increase).

[ultramickeymouse]

I missed this the 1st time. I guess the race will feel like a 5:00 am start. Better get a early night rest.

Disney’s Princess Half Marathon
Sunday, March 8, 2009
6:00 AM
**Please note: Daylight Savings Time will occur on Sunday, March 8, 2009. Clocks will need to be set ahead one hour when going to bed on Saturday, March 7, 2009.**

[mkymsehi]

March would be a no go for me to travel to WDW again. Too close to January and I will need to build up sky miles again. As the prices continue to increase for the WDW events, I will probably only go to one event per year and do other local/closer halfs at other times of the year. Maybe I'll do the inaugrual men's WDW Viallians half when they have that to balance the princess half. The expo can be geared towards home brewing, prostate issues, ED, how best to write your name in the snow and other men's related topics.

LOL, Bill thanks for the laugh.

I would like to add the seminar "The pros and cons of leaving the toilet seat up." Followed by the ever popular "We're not lost, so who needs to stop to ask for directions."

Disney sure knows how to milk every penny out of us, not that park hoppers or AP's are a bargain.

[Kristi1357]

Mel - great post & I could not agree more! :thumbsup2

I kept hoping that Disney would keep the Minnie since there was apparently a bigger turnout this year. :sad1: It would have been one thing if they changed to stinkin' princesses, but kept it the same weekend in May. Moving to March is really not the brightest thing given the previously mentioned reasons: DVC, busy time of year.

Disney always takes a good thing (like marathon weekend in Jan.) then tries to replicate it and drain the Disney fans dry. Meanwhile alienating them with sub-Disney-standard fare. A perfect example is this new fangled Princess half. :sad2:

Regardless, we have a tent. WDW vacation planned for the 3rd week of March with friends next year already.

[Caitsmama]

Well, I am offically signed up for the Princess 1/2. I just did the Minnie 5k -- and it was my first, but i knew i wouldn't be able to get down in Jan, since we go every november -- so, March for me works out better.... Even though i agree that the transportation and fees are a lil' nuts..
I just really want to do a 1/2 and since Jan. was out -- this was the next best -- however, i also agree the course isn't great.. but, maybe that will change in the future after the first one..?

[princessrunner]

Kudos to those of you signing up and able to attend this event. Inagural races are fun, albeit usually the trial and error pain.

Robert, do you think it would help if those signing up for the Princess emailed Disney Sports and asked them why, if ToT has designated hotels with a reduced rate and transport from said hotels, the Princess half marathon does not? I know that we paid an extra $5 for the transport using the ToT preferred hotels but even that would be worth it just to have the transportation....especially that early in the a.m.!!

[Caitsmama]

I have a question for those who have done these before - will the transportation be JUST for those who book thru a designated TA (aka Anthony Travel - or whoever) ? Or will the travel be available to anyone registered and staying at the listed resorts?? We are booking a room at the Poly on our own - concierge, and hoping i don't have to book thru a specific agency just to get the travel...

[twoWDWfools]

Well, really glad we got to do the last Minnie. This is too close to marathon weekend, plus the cost and it's more crowded in March due to spring break.

I realize Disney wants to make money just like any other corporation but this is getting out of hand. Increased costs, no discounts, restricted trans, required park tickets. Looks like we may just hold to only doing one event per year at WDW.

[acourtwdw]

I am thinking of doing the Princess, but that time of year is crowded already. It will cost us 106 DVC points for that weekend (Thu-Tue). That is 2 weeks during value season. I am up in the air about it.

Why it doesn't go through the Castle? Isn't that what being a princess is all about.

I want to do the full marathon in 2010 and I thought that this would be a good race to try, but I'm not sure. Somebody talk me into it!

[Caitsmama]

Somebody talk me into it!


Well, for me, i can only do one WDW event per year, and being that it's the first year for this, i am gonna try it -- I think it will be fun, despite it's growing pains.. I don't care too much about the parks being crowded, as i will only do the parks for a few hours at night -- this trip wouldn't be so much about the parks and rides, as it will be for my mental and physical health and well being. :thumbsup2 I plan on hanging by the pools all day, (weather permitting!) and walking parks at night.
I am not ready for Jan. marathon weekend, so having a couple extra months to prep is key for me -- as well as going in november, i can't do another trip only 2 mo. after that - so march is better for me. Yes, may would be ideal, but hey.. i want that princess tiara medal!!! :lmao: princess:

[joan4mickey]

During my 9th mile Sunday I thought "why am I doing this?" But two days out and I'm thinking the Princess would be okay. I have college kids and they or at one is on spring break and would love to go to WDW.

I like the 15K as it was a challenge, but not too long and I'm worried about 13 miles.

[ghoulishgirl]

My mom and I are also in for the princess. We want that tiera medal! we're also hoping for lots of pink merchandise! I also wish it went through the castle, but to me it's an excuse to go to WDW again! what I don't like is having to train through the winter for this race and I live in California, where the weather is relatively mild. How do people who live in states with "real" winters do it?

[Briarmom]

I was thinking of doing this as well. I'm a total running newbie, so it would take me this long to get ready.
So, you have to be able to run 16 minute miles, is that what that means?:confused3

[Caitsmama]

Yes, Briarmom, you have to be able to maintain a 16 min. mile pace thru the whole race, if you fall below that at any time, you can be swept (taken off the course). :)

[Briarmom]

Yes, Briarmom, you have to be able to maintain a 16 min. mile pace thru the whole race, if you fall below that at any time, you can be swept (taken off the course). :)

Thanks for the reply. I also didn't realize that it was Spring Break so early. It's Peak season at that time?:scared1:

I'd have to get there a few days in advance so my body could adjust to the time change...

ETA: as I'm texting my military dh on our cruise for July, I'm realizing there's no way we can know his schedule for March. Grr.

[Rora]

While I'm a newbie runner, I'm very interested in the Princess marathon.. I haven't participated in the other Disney Marathons so I really don't have any opinions to compare this too. But I do need some more experienced runner's opinions:
My mother (52) and I (23) would like to do this but we're afraid that it would be too much for our first race. How would the 5k be? Any info/opinions on that? Sorry if my question is in the wrong place, please feel free to direct me to anyone else! Thank you!!

[Caitsmama]

Rora, hi, i just did my first race - the 5k. It was fun!! Knowing that you have 10 months to prep, i would say that depending on your fitness level, you could do this! However, if you aren't fit (meaning you aren't doing any activity every week) then i would say maybe to start with the 5k.
I started training /jogging for the first time last December (then took like a month off - bad idea! LOL) and just did the 5k, so that was about 5 mo. of training -- but i had never run before - (I just turned 30) - so i felt that was good enough for me -- i would have been way over my head if i would have jumped into the 1/2 though..

I am glad i took the time to train slowly for the 5k as my first -- but now i am taking the plunge to the 1/2 - knowing i have 10 more months to train... I am scared, but feel if i train faithfully i can do it.

[Rora]

Thank you Caitsmama!! Anyone else have any words of encouragement for the 5k? Thank you again.

[syko]

Go for it!!!!!!

I just did my first 5k & 15k at the Minnie and I did not do any training at all, and I managed to get around in a non racing wheelchair.
I am gonig to sign up for the 5k & and 1/2 but I can not sign up on line, so I am waiting for track shack to get back to me.

[ms.mightyduck]

Just pitching in my 2 cents here.

At the end of the Minnie, I was looking for, well, Minnie. A rep from WWoS who was standing there surveying the crowd with a big smile was nearby, so I asked him where minnie was.

He said she was "tired" and the other characters were taking over.

She's tired? I asked him. I just did a 15K!

I pointed out that I finished in the required time, albeit at the end, and that I thought they really should have put Minnie out there for ALL of us to take photos with.

After all, I said, the Minnie is CANCELLED for next year.

No, it's not, the WWoS guy said. It's a Princess race!

No, that's a different race. The Minnie is no more.

He continued to tell me that they JUST moved it to March.

And changed the distance to a half. And changed the theme. Sounds like a new race to me, I told him.

He assured me it would be fun.

Too close to Marathon weekend, I said. I can't come down six weeks apart. And the flower show won't be going on, I added.

And besides. I'm not seven. I think a Princess race is stupid.

He looked SHOCKED.

Now... he said, in that tone parents use when children are a bit too bold.

It's true, I told him. Minnie is cool. Princesses don't interest me.

Then I threw in DH's idea for Go RED for Women: How about the Queen of Hearts and the villains? (DH decided THIS was the way to go at the expo, feeling the pirate and princess thing is now played out).

So I did tell him how I felt. I didn't feel like he thought how I felt was so important. *shrug* I'm going for the Donald.

But DH was eyeing that ToT medal, I must say....

[Tiger Lily 03]

Well said Mel.

I missed this the 1st time. I guess the race will feel like a 5:00 am start. Better get a early night rest.

Disney’s Princess Half Marathon
Sunday, March 8, 2009
6:00 AM
**Please note: Daylight Saving Time will occur on Sunday, March 8, 2009. Clocks will need to be set ahead one hour when going to bed on Saturday, March 7, 2009.** All I can think is Eek! :eek: I'm exhausted from too much weekend right now.

I know there are quite a few interested in that inaugural medal. I'm not able to be there, but will be cheering on from the homefront any WISH Team members who will be going.

Rora, Yes, you and Mom can make that event as a 1/2 if you begin your training now and set a good base, doing some walking/running/wogging, core strengthening and general XT. There is time to make it work for those going.

[suzannews]

Just pitching in my 2 cents here.

At the end of the Minnie, I was looking for, well, Minnie. A rep from WWoS who was standing there surveying the crowd with a big smile was nearby, so I asked him where minnie was.

He said she was "tired" and the other characters were taking over.

She's tired? I asked him. I just did a 15K!


Amen sister! I didn't see any characters at or near the finish line when I crossed, maybe I was still in the zone. I agree that Minnie should have been there the whole time no matter what even if they had to change out Minnie's every 1/2 hr or so because of the heat.

[pinky4disney]

So I was looking at the registration page for the Princess 1/2. Not only did the geniuses that planned it put it too close to Marathon weekend...they also picked Daylight Savings Day. So the 6AM start will really feel like 5AM (not to mention how early the 3AM wakeup call to get up and find your own transportation to the start will feel)!! :eek: Damn them for tempting me with the princess tiara medal!!

[RoyalCinderella]

Hi, all, new to the WISH competition board, throwing my tiara into the ring for the Princess Half next March! princess: I was an avid runner in high school, but have concentrated on college the last 10 years, not so much my health and fitness. Bet you couldn't tell from my DISboards name that I'm a big Disney princess fan (and Cinderella's story is my favorite) and the race is on the first day of Spring Break for both myself and my fiance, so it looks like this race is on for our trip next March to WDW! What an exciting, different take on Disney vacations! Glad to be a part of this WISH group!:yay:

[getnthinr]

Hi, all, new to the WISH competition board, throwing my tiara into the ring for the Princess Half next March! princess: I was an avid runner in high school, but have concentrated on college the last 10 years, not so much my health and fitness. Bet you couldn't tell from my DISboards name that I'm a big Disney princess fan (and Cinderella's story is my favorite) and the race is on the first day of Spring Break for both myself and my fiance, so it looks like this race is on for our trip next March to WDW! What an exciting, different take on Disney vacations! Glad to be a part of this WISH group!:yay:

Welcome, RoyalCinderella! :welcome:

You know, the toughest question on the race app for me was "what is your favorite princess". I finally settled on Belle because of her ability to be her own person (and complete disregard for what others thought). They all have great qualities -- and some of those stories have been with me for many many years. It was a difficult choice!

[getnthinr]

Well, I am offically signed up for the Princess 1/2. I just did the Minnie 5k -- and it was my first, but i knew i wouldn't be able to get down in Jan, since we go every november -- so, March for me works out better.... Even though i agree that the transportation and fees are a lil' nuts..
I just really want to do a 1/2 and since Jan. was out -- this was the next best -- however, i also agree the course isn't great.. but, maybe that will change in the future after the first one..?

I signed up for this one too. I am not a DVCer or annual passholder so my situation is a bit different than most. As for the crowds in the parks, truthfully I do not typically spend much time in the parks during race weekends (other than on the race course). Park time is for when my family comes along -- and they are usually in school when the races are scheduled. I'm not really the princess type, but I enjoy the pirate aspect of the pirate and princess party -- which means I'll get a taste of the MK without paying for a full-price park ticket. I'm happy about the switch to March -- hoping it stay cooler later in the day than the May temps are. As a back-of-the-packer, temps are always a concern for me. I like Pop Century and they are offering bus transportation from there, so I should be in a lot better shape transportation-wise than the Minnie (where I drove all weekend). The race entry fee is ridiculously expensive, but I expect Disney to be ridiculously expensive. :laughing:

I agree it seems completely unfair to the DVCers, though. :sad2: I also agree that it seems only the upper class can do all the races in the Endurance series. It a ton of money. I loved ToT but can't afford to go back. And I'd love to try the Everest race. Like everything else, I have to pick and choose where to spend my money. I'm going to do this princess half the inaugural year and that may be it for me.

Looking forward to seeing any WISHers who decide to join me!

[joan4mickey]

So what night do you think the P&P party is?

[Caitsmama]

Joan, i am assuming the P&P party is that sunday night - only b/c if you look at the offical dates for the race, it is the 6-8 and then if you look at the info for the race, it says a POST race celebration P & P party for family / friends - so i would say that the party is definately that sunday night.. just enough time for us to go back to the hotel, and crash for a bit.. LOL

On the positive side - my MIL and my dd went to the P&P party last week when we were there for the Minnie - and they LOVED it.. they raved and raved about it -- so i am excited to get to go!

[Caitsmama]

Also, i am wondering if we should start a separate thread for those who DID sign up -- i know this thread is mostly chatting about the race in general, and peoples thoughts.. but should we keep a thread going where people can chat with each other who are definately signed up?

[joan4mickey]

I think a separte thread for those who have committed would be good.

I went to the P&P Party twice in January and loved it both times. The second time my DD and I rode BTM 4 times in a row-no wait.

[Caitsmama]

Ok, i started a separate thread - for those who are definately signed up!
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=24966391#post24966391

I am willing to keep a list. :)

[TnTsParty]

I am still on the fence about this race. I am not DVC but am Annual Passholder but still that doesn't make a difference in my decision. The entry fee is kind of high but again its Disney can't expect things to be too cheap!! LOL I am going to wait a bit before registering for this one. I do like the aspect that it starts at the racetrack since me and DH are big NASCAR fans but it does not make sense to have a Princess race start at a racetrack and not go through MK at all.

I also didn't know if the P&P party is included in the $120 fee or is it a seperate fee for the party? Just not sure how to read it since for the EE and the TOT the party is included in the fee. Knowing Disney its not included.

[Caitsmama]

No, it's not included. When you register, it asks if you want to register with or without a ticket $120 or $163 - you choose.
Then, you can also buy additional tix at a discounted rate for family.

[TnTsParty]

Amen sister! I didn't see any characters at or near the finish line when I crossed, maybe I was still in the zone. I agree that Minnie should have been there the whole time no matter what even if they had to change out Minnie's every 1/2 hr or so because of the heat.

I didn't see any characters either at the finish line - I did get my pic taken by myself after the race but other than that I didn't see any characters. I might have been in my zone too :confused3 I agree that at least Minnie should have been at the finish line. Oh and the lady giving the medals just handed me mine - didn't even put it on me. Again I was in the zone so it didn't bother me then but it really bothers me now. :confused3

[getnthinr]

I didn't see any characters either at the finish line - I did get my pic taken by myself after the race but other than that I didn't see any characters.

Yep, the only characters I saw when I came through were outside the finish area for photo ops. (Similar to what they are doing for the marathon/half now.) There were three -- don't remember who (Hook, somebody and somebody else! :laughing: ) -- each with a pretty hefty line. I was disappointed that there was no Minnie, but again -- based on my back of the pack experiences -- I had scheduled a lunch at Cape May so I could get a photo with Minnie there. Normally I'd have waited in line (happily) to get a photo with the characters, but I was fortunate that I'd already gotten some neat character photos at the 5K with my DS in them with me, so I passed on the mom-only photo op.

I'm always happy for any characters. I never seem to get a photo with Goofy after my Goofys or with Mickey after my marathons, so it doesn't surprise me that Minnie didn't work out for me there. Since I was prepared for that, it was no biggee.

[Caitsmama]

I know i saw at the 15k finish - peter pan/wendy, Hook & Mr. Smee, and i believe Daisy duck? But, ya, i think Minnie definately should have cleared her schedule to be there.. ;)

[wtpclc]

And besides. I'm not seven. I think a Princess race is stupid.
:rotfl: You go Jen! Heck, I wasn't a princess girl at age 7! loved your entire post!

Sorry, not havign WDW trips 7 weeks apart. Besides teh park being corwded, teh acocmmodations being $$$, teh airfare is nto going to be cheap either. I couldn't do it even if I did like princesses. WTH? WHile they may glean teh overflow from teh marathon weekend half, I think they are dreaming if tehy think they can get anoterh 10,000 people for a primarily female race wthat doesn't go through MK and doesn't have the prestige of marathon weekend.

However, for those of you who like princesses or innaugural medals and acan make this work, I really am glad for oyu. Don't mean to talke away from your excitement!

[cdn_gal_eeyore]

Minnie was there.... I finished in 1:39:59 and went straight over to her line for a picture once I was done. After waiting for a bit they cut the line off about 5 people ahead of me and I never saw Minnie again and I was there for about another hour or so afterwards.

I know I heard a lot of people voice their displeasure at the character situation at the end of the race.

[wtpclc]

Last year it as awesome to high 5 Minnie and Mickey at teh sinish line. Really a bummer they were goen this year.

BTW, I never saw a line for CIndereally while we were at teh expo and rarely saw anyone taking a pic with her. You'd think that might have given them a hint. :sad2:

[curiouser]

BTW, I never saw a line for CIndereally while we were at teh expo and rarely saw anyone taking a pic with her. You'd think that might have given them a hint. :sad2:

You know, this might give them a good opportunity to relaunch Pocahontas because at least she could run!! :rotfl:

[joan4mickey]

I got to see Minnie...just in time. I waited for two people, then photo and when I left the line was very very very long.

I got to high five Mulan and the red guy Mooshu(sp) as I was going through DS.

There was three other characters at the end after the metal photo op..I think Pocohontas(sp), Maybe Belle and one other-didn't get my pix with them.

[ultramickeymouse]

As mentioned before, where is Disney getting all its 10,000 runners. The Jan 1/2 had only 7300+ women finishers(60% of all runners). If you removed all men, that's not a lot of runners. The Minnie could only muster a 9% men finish rate this year (205 of 2600). If the same for the Princess, they have a lot of work to do to market it. I can't imagine more than 10% of all runners being men as a tierra medal and no race shirt.

[FeeFeeWhite]

My friend who is a runner really wants me to do this with her. I am not a runner. What will happen to me when I fall out of the race or get taken out as I have heard. Will I still get a medel or tiara or be frowned upon?

[Caitsmama]

If you get swept, my understanding is you don't get a medal. ;) Medals are for finishers only i believe.

[ultramickeymouse]

That is correct, that the medals are for finishers. Previous WDW Marathons(1/2's) they gave a medal without the year on it if you were swept. That doesn't happen anymore.

[wfloyd]

That is correct, that the medals are for finishers. Previous WDW Marathons(1/2's) they gave a medal without the year on it if you were swept. That doesn't happen anymore.

Right now they are doing good if they have medals for the finishers as well. :rolleyes1

Bill

[SamSam]

My friend who is a runner really wants me to do this with her. I am not a runner. What will happen to me when I fall out of the race or get taken out as I have heard. Will I still get a medel or tiara or be frowned upon?

You won't get the medal, but neither will you be frowned upon. You will have amazing support and well wishes from everyone.:thumbsup2

[FeeFeeWhite]

Thanks for all the responses. I think I have talked her into the 5K. We are doing another 5K in September 08.

[FeeFeeWhite]

Does anyone know the route for the 5K?

[ultramickeymouse]

Does anyone know the route for the 5K?

The registration page shows EPCOT which means it would use the Go Red for Women 5K course at the Minnie http://www.disneyrunning.com/2008GOREDFORWOMENCourseMap.pdf

[SeaSickPsycho]

Looks like I'll be doing the TOT in Oct.09'...need to change my ressies from May to Oct. It's ok because I want to participate in the TOT as well.:goodvibes

What is the TOT?

Thanks

[ultramickeymouse]

What is the TOT?

Thanks

TOT is Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 13K night run on 10/25. It starts at 10 pm and after the race DHS is open with a few rides for post race party. Did it last year but not this one. Too much money for an 8 miler( $85) :( No DVC discounts either!

We will be there for F&W and use race money for that:woohoo:

[SeaSickPsycho]

TOT is Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 13K night run on 10/25. It starts at 10 pm and after the race DHS is open with a few rides for post race party. Did it last year but not this one. Too much money for an 8 miler( $85) :( No DVC discounts either!

We will be there for F&W and use race money for that:woohoo:

Sorry for all the questions, what is F & W?

I am new to running (getting in shape) and thought this might motivate me to run.

Can you suggest a race for someone new like myself?

[ultramickeymouse]

Sorry for all the questions, what is F & W?

I am new to running (getting in shape) and thought this might motivate me to run.

Can you suggest a race for someone new like myself?
F&W is EPCOT's Food and Wine Festival. Lots of great snack size food items with great wine and beer.

ToT13K(8.1 miles) is a nce race but you could try Race for the Taste 10K or the 5K in Jan(Marathon weekend at Animal Kingdom). I have no idea where your training is and what distance you want to try.

[Princess Runner]

I apologize to princessrunner for having a "similar name", we just came back from the Disney Cruise and already booked the one for next year, so my hubby is no really into The Prince$$ 1/2, I do believe is expensive and I paid big bucks (regist and hotel $$$$)for my New York City Marathon, but it was so worth it. I want to run this just because is the inagural race and get the t-shirt and wear it in my next Disney Cruise. So the question is, if you stay in other but the hotels with official transport to the race, how do you get there? are they going to make it a mission?My hubby is running Marine Corps Marathon in October I already know Disney will have a booth, and since I don't see this Princess 1/2 filling up any time soon I'll wait and see what they offer.

[Princess Runner]

Sorry for all the questions, what is F & W?

I am new to running (getting in shape) and thought this might motivate me to run.

Can you suggest a race for someone new like myself?

Gasparilla Classic in Tampa is a must do, I did the Gasparilla Michelob Challenge last year, great course, unbelievable give aways at the pre race, outstanding food port race and free beer (if you drink, I don't). They do give discounts in the sponsoring hotels.

[FeeFeeWhite]

What is the Princess Marathon Rate for CB?