Official 2012 Wine and Dine ½ Marathon Thread

[ashysmashy]

My honey stinger chews arrived, and they are so good! They're the fruit smoothie kind. I'm happy they are 95% organic too. I like them much better than the straight honey stinger packs. Thank you to whoever suggested those!

 

[monte]

Did 8.5 miles today and although it's a nice, cool autumn day in the Rockies I was sweating! So afraid how I will react to Florida's weather

I'll just keep moving and think about my C2C medal!

 

[Qltrgrl2]

We'll be coming fro AZ (still in the 100s every day here!) and were wondering about what the temps are usually at WDW around the time of year when the 1/2 marathon will be.

We've done the marathon in January many times and have experienced temps from the extreme lows (2010!!!) to nice and warm.

But with this being a night race, and at a time of year we've never visited WDW, we were wondering if anyone had any suggestions about what kind of extra layers might be needed to stay comy before the race start. Extra tee shirt? Sweats or something heavy like that?

And don't get me started about what to wear during the days at the parks! We have no idea what to pack!

Since we will be standing around for a long time, I plan to bring the following for "just in case": disposable rain poncho, throwaway shirt and mylar race blanket. If I bring all this stuff, hopefully the weather will be perfect and I will not need it! Waiting in January for the race, I wore an extra shirt that I disposed of just before I started running. All the clothing is donated to charity too!

 

[lerxst]

We'll be coming fro AZ (still in the 100s every day here!) and were wondering about what the temps are usually at WDW around the time of year when the 1/2 marathon will be.

We've done the marathon in January many times and have experienced temps from the extreme lows (2010!!!) to nice and warm.

But with this being a night race, and at a time of year we've never visited WDW, we were wondering if anyone had any suggestions about what kind of extra layers might be needed to stay comy before the race start. Extra tee shirt? Sweats or something heavy like that?

And don't get me started about what to wear during the days at the parks! We have no idea what to pack!

We go to Disney many times a year. I don't think layers are necessary. Aside from 2010, I have never gone with more than a sweatshirt over a tshirt . I have always worn shorts. Of course, this is not running but enjoying the parks.

I can't imagine needing much at all if running. As years have passed, I traded in for a windbreaker. Matter of fact, my current windbreaker is that orange and Grey model I bought at gift shop on Main Street USA right next to Casey's hotdogs (my absolute favorite place to eat in Magic Kingdom). It is super light weight if want to hang around the waist but seems just right in the cooler evening temps.

 

[specialks]

My honey stinger chews arrived, and they are so good! They're the fruit smoothie kind. I'm happy they are 95% organic too. I like them much better than the straight honey stinger packs. Thank you to whoever suggested those!

I just restocked my honey stingers. Fruit Smoothie is my fave too. Glad you like them!

 

[mickeysgal]

Just came home from the Tower of Terror 10 miler and now I'm really wishing I had registered for the Wine and Dine. Thought I'd join the thread if only to live vicariously through all of you!

 

[Sleepless Knight]

Hey wine & diners.... I'm feeling burnt out too and on the verge of just wanting to stop. Maybe someone here will inspire me to keep on, or the strength to walk away. My problem is that I do NOT want to be a quitter. I had a really GREAT 11 mile run on Saturday. But by late saturday night, I felt just terrible! Major tummy issues. This is the third time I've felt like that out of the past four long runs (6.5, 8, 9.5, 11). I used to feel this way all the time when I first started running but now I can do 3-4 miles without any issues as long as I don't eat too much too soon before my run; but now it's just on the longer ones. I have been using Clif Shot Bloks at about each hour mark (11 miles took me 2:15 or so). I'm thinking that might be the culprit and if I keep at this, I'm going to try some honey stingers next time. And i'm only going to do one more really long run before the race, and cut back to 8 or so next time instead.

But I am just weary and tired. I've been dealing with major job stress, major parenting stress, and some health concerns (chronic headaches, TMJ). But I know we all have challenges and I don't want to whine. I just am feeling disappointed that I feel so badly after my run. I felt GREAT while I was running and immediately after. My toes are protesting (I think I need even another half size bigger shoe), and my legs are tired (normal running tired), but I'm thinking I might have some shin splints developing again on the outsides of my shins this time. Nearly every part of me is telling me to "throw in the towel and just go ENJOY the trip instead of running and then spending the last two days of our trip miserable." Every part except the competitive side of me. The part that knows I can complete the distance. The part that says, everyone already knows you're doing this you can't give up. The part that says, "all that time and effort invested!" The practical part that says, "go and do it, even if you have to scale back and walk the last half of it!"

Anyone have personal experiences with getting over the slump that they want to share?

I know this feeling well. Most recently for about all of August 2012. There were many, many times when I questioned why I signed up for not one, but 2 1/2 marathons in 2012. I also thought that the Wine & Dine 1/2 would be my final 1/2 ever. But then the Disneyland 1/2 came.

First, let me share some backstory. My first 1/2, the Disneyland 2011 was a very challenging experience. Nerves, adrenaline, and internal pressure got the best of me and I did too much too, too soon and wound up with severe shin splints less than 0.5 miles into the race. I literally knew I could not continue another 1/4 mile in this kind of pain, let alone 13. My options were drop out now or walk the whole thing. No running whatsoever. So I started walking, hoping that I had trained truly fast enough to do this.

Shortly after exiting Disneyland, we hit an overpass. And my legs hurt all over from this tiny overpass, but I thought of my Mormon pioneer ancestors who fled religious persecution to cross the American plains and kept going. I just kept walking, fueled on by dreams of walking around Disneyland later that day with my medal for finishing. Which eventually, I did coming in at 3:05 something. I was exhausted, but it felt amazing walking around Disneyland, tired and everything with my medal.

Now for this year. I was more confident, but nervous as this would make or break my planned visit to WDW in November. For whatever reason, I enjoyed the race so much more this time. Maybe it was taking time to see some characters, maybe it was knowing to not go too fast too early, but I really enjoyed this one a lot more. My time for 2012 was 3:07:51, but that includes the 10+ minutes for character photos and a bathroom break. And I felt so much better physically.

At least for me, on the long runs I like to think about where I'll be at Disney on race day at the corresponding mile. And I keep thinking of walking around the parks with 3 medals this time.

 

[MelindaRuns]

I did ToT 10 miler too and can't wait for Wine and Dine. I live in MN and think between now and W&D I'll be wearing warmer clothes to train so I'm used to running in warmer temps, just in case. ToT weather was so weird- I'm a native southerner and hot/humid has never bothered me before. For some reason the weather at ToTwas making people sick right and left. I've never seen so much puking in all my life! My 13 year old daughter had to take off her shirt before mile 1 and just run in her bra top (she certainly didn't want to, but felt the need physically to get cooler). The race shirts were black, and lots of people wore them durning the race. I think they held in a lot of heat. We finished, but slower than we would have liked: 2:49. Two of my daughters (ages 12 and 15) ran it together in 2:18, and my 14 year old son ran it in 1:24.

For W&D, which I will be doing solo- what are you planning to wear? Shorts, capris, pants? Long sleeve top, short sleeve, or tank top? I just have no idea what to expect temperature-wise.

 

[lerxst]

As this is my first Disney event and there is an after party, what are the changing facilities like? I can't possibly walk around epcot in any bit of my running gear else they could smell me from the Magic Kingdom.

I know already to bring baby wipes but I will need to remove super soaked running shorts and shirt.

Thanks in advance.

 

[mking624]

I officially know the race is getting closer simply because I am starting to have dreams about it. Last year I did the Halloween 5K and perhaps my "scariest" dream about it was that I had forgotten my shoes at home. Needless to say, those were the first thing that went into my bag when I packed. Last night's dream took place at the expo and we got our shirts...and they were downright awful. Oh the things my subconscious worries about.

For W&D, which I will be doing solo- what are you planning to wear? Shorts, capris, pants? Long sleeve top, short sleeve, or tank top? I just have no idea what to expect temperature-wise.

For the race itself, I am wearing a tech tank top, compression shorts with a Team Sparkle skirt over it, and arm warmers. The arm warmers will keep most of my arm covered in case it is chilly...and I can just pull them off if I get too warm. I am more concerned about how I will feel pre-race with the temps, but I get warmed up just fine during a run.

 

[jeanigor]

After returning from a grueling humid weekend doing the Tower of Terror and Epcot's 30th, I think we are all very lucky that runDisney bumped the Wine & Dine ½ back to November.

 

[DrDani]

As this is my first Disney event and there is an after party, what are the changing facilities like? I can't possibly walk around epcot in any bit of my running gear else they could smell me from the Magic Kingdom.

I know already to bring baby wipes but I will need to remove super soaked running shorts and shirt.

Thanks in advance.

Changing facilities are a tent (men's and women's) set up near the finish line. Let me warn you though, they are HOT AND HUMID in there! My advice would be to go into the after party and change in an air-conditioned bathroom. You may have to wait in line at the bathrooms, but you will be so much happier.
I changed in the tents at last wine and dine and thought I was going to pass out from the heat. For this last TOT run, I bypassed the changing tent and stood in line for the bathroom. So glad I did!

 

[ludari]

After just completing the TOT this past weekend I am looking forward to W&D and cooler weather.

 

[mking624]

After returning from a grueling humid weekend doing the Tower of Terror and Epcot's 30th, I think we are all very lucky that runDisney bumped the Wine & Dine ½ back to November.

I was thinking the same thing. I was there last year for the Halloween 5K when W&D was that weekend. The evenings were unusually cool for that time of year...like upper 50s. But I met a lot of half marathoners that couldn't be happier. I came back home telling my DH that it was perfect running temps for running and I doubt I'd be so lucky next year. Admittedly, I was disappointed when they made the change to November and I griped and complained about it to poor DH. But as I have been training (especially when my local summer temps were 110+ degrees), I have been saying to myself over and over again just how HAPPY I am this race is in November!!

 

[nursegirl]

Hi all! My friend has an injury and will miss the W&D 1/2, so I have a bib and a party ticket available if anyone is interested! PM me!

Still recovering from TOT, I think I am just now somewhat rehydrated!!


Update: Bib and ticket no longer available, thanks for the great response!

 

[Figment1990]

I know this feeling well. Most recently for about all of August 2012. There were many, many times when I questioned why I signed up for not one, but 2 1/2 marathons in 2012. I also thought that the Wine & Dine 1/2 would be my final 1/2 ever. But then the Disneyland 1/2 came.

First, let me share some backstory. My first 1/2, the Disneyland 2011 was a very challenging experience. Nerves, adrenaline, and internal pressure got the best of me and I did too much too, too soon and wound up with severe shin splints less than 0.5 miles into the race. I literally knew I could not continue another 1/4 mile in this kind of pain, let alone 13. My options were drop out now or walk the whole thing. No running whatsoever. So I started walking, hoping that I had trained truly fast enough to do this.

Shortly after exiting Disneyland, we hit an overpass. And my legs hurt all over from this tiny overpass, but I thought of my Mormon pioneer ancestors who fled religious persecution to cross the American plains and kept going. I just kept walking, fueled on by dreams of walking around Disneyland later that day with my medal for finishing. Which eventually, I did coming in at 3:05 something. I was exhausted, but it felt amazing walking around Disneyland, tired and everything with my medal.

Now for this year. I was more confident, but nervous as this would make or break my planned visit to WDW in November. For whatever reason, I enjoyed the race so much more this time. Maybe it was taking time to see some characters, maybe it was knowing to not go too fast too early, but I really enjoyed this one a lot more. My time for 2012 was 3:07:51, but that includes the 10+ minutes for character photos and a bathroom break. And I felt so much better physically.

At least for me, on the long runs I like to think about where I'll be at Disney on race day at the corresponding mile. And I keep thinking of walking around the parks with 3 medals this time.

I just wanted to say thank you all so much for the supportive stories and encouragement. I'm finally starting to feel better and starting to wonder if it wasn't the run that made me feel so sick after all. I think my biggest fear is that I stupidly tied this race to my DH's and I 10th anniversary celebration and we are staying until Tuesday after the race. I don't mind feeling awful for several days at home after a training run (it's not fun, but I can deal with it). But I didn't want to spend the only two days we have after the race to enjoy Disney feeling sick. I think I'll try slowing down as much as I can stand (I truly do push myself probably more than I should) and try to convince myself that it's about enjoying the fun of the run, and not my finish time. A very good friend of mine is running with me and we weren't gonig to run together because I run mostly and she run/walks intervals. But maybe I'll go with her after all and just try to relax and enjoy her company!

OH - And I am VERY glad we didn't have to run the W&D 1/2 last weekend. I'm really hoping for great cool weather in November and none of that "R" stuff falling out of the sky (I refuse to say the word or even think about it til I see the forecast!)

 

[Sleepless Knight]

You're welcome. I received so much encouragement from so many racers before my first 1/2 last year. I hope I can do the same now.

I remember talking to a girl at Disneyland who said she wanted to do the 1/2 someday, but never could. I smiled and told her that I used to think the same thing.

In my opinion, if you've put in the time and training, barring serious injury, you will finish the race successfully.

Now, just think of how great it will feel when you enjoy your 10th anniversary with that medal around your neck or back in your room.

 

[AquaDame]

I just wanted to say thank you all so much for the supportive stories and encouragement. I'm finally starting to feel better and starting to wonder if it wasn't the run that made me feel so sick after all. I think my biggest fear is that I stupidly tied this race to my DH's and I 10th anniversary celebration and we are staying until Tuesday after the race. I don't mind feeling awful for several days at home after a training run (it's not fun, but I can deal with it). But I didn't want to spend the only two days we have after the race to enjoy Disney feeling sick. I think I'll try slowing down as much as I can stand (I truly do push myself probably more than I should) and try to convince myself that it's about enjoying the fun of the run, and not my finish time. A very good friend of mine is running with me and we weren't gonig to run together because I run mostly and she run/walks intervals. But maybe I'll go with her after all and just try to relax and enjoy her company!

OH - And I am VERY glad we didn't have to run the W&D 1/2 last weekend. I'm really hoping for great cool weather in November and none of that "R" stuff falling out of the sky (I refuse to say the word or even think about it til I see the forecast!)

For my first half at the Tink this year I was very worried for the same reason... the race was Saturday morning and we were not flying out until Sunday night, so I needed to be able to move around after. At the suggestion of some friends I went out and bought compression leggings that go to my knees and tried them out on my long runs before the race. I loooooove them now and will absolutely be running in them for the race! The soreness in my legs doesn't seem to happen when I am wearing them, and I wore them around after the race as well - all day and on my flight the next day - and had no issues whatsoever. It all comes down to training in the end of course - I ran up to my 8 miler without them and had no issues this time but wore them for my 9.5 and 11 this past weekend *just in case*. YMMV of course, but they might be worth a go if you can find a pair!

 

[Nole95]

How many corrals are there in these races? Both my wife and I have estimated finish times of 2:20 and 2:30 respectively, so I am wondering what corral that might get us placed in.

 

[kandaf]

I just wanted to say thank you all so much for the supportive stories and encouragement. I'm finally starting to feel better and starting to wonder if it wasn't the run that made me feel so sick after all. I think my biggest fear is that I stupidly tied this race to my DH's and I 10th anniversary celebration and we are staying until Tuesday after the race. I don't mind feeling awful for several days at home after a training run (it's not fun, but I can deal with it). But I didn't want to spend the only two days we have after the race to enjoy Disney feeling sick. I think I'll try slowing down as much as I can stand (I truly do push myself probably more than I should) and try to convince myself that it's about enjoying the fun of the run, and not my finish time. A very good friend of mine is running with me and we weren't gonig to run together because I run mostly and she run/walks intervals. But maybe I'll go with her after all and just try to relax and enjoy her company!

OH - And I am VERY glad we didn't have to run the W&D 1/2 last weekend. I'm really hoping for great cool weather in November and none of that "R" stuff falling out of the sky (I refuse to say the word or even think about it til I see the forecast!)

It sound like you might be a little dehydrated after your training runs. You might want to try "NUUN" tablets in your water. They are electrolyte tablets that you just put in your water bottle. They have all sorts of flavors (I like strawberry lemonade). Shot blocks are good for energy during the long runs but you really need to consider hydration and electrolyte replacement separately. Just drinking water will actually reduce the concentration of the electrolytes remaining in your body.