Any Tips to Prepare Rookie for Marathon Weekend

[nepatsfan73]

As some may recall, I plan on attempting (sorry, I mean COMPLETING) the WDW Half Marathon in 2008. I have never done a distance race or participated in the WDW or any other marathon or half marathon before. I have posted a little and lurked alot, and have starting doing a some training as my body permits and plan to increase same as well as my weight loss efforts.

Anyway, I was wondering if anyone had any tips as to what to expect and do during the WDW marathon weekend itself. I plan to be there Thursday through Sunday and was wondering if people had advice as to, among other things, whether any park touring would be doable, the best time/day to pick up packets, suggestions for rookies with slow times as far as getting to the start and what to expect at least as to the beginning of the race, etc. Any tips or suggestions to help get ready for "game day" would be appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[ultramickeymouse]

My DW and I will be doing our 3rd Goofy. We always going very light on the parks before the 1/2 and rest totally after the 1/2 to get ready for the marathon. I would say Thursday go and get your packet(am) as you get the best selection of race merchandise. You could than do parks. Friday a normal day and very light on Sat for the race Sun. We always ride WDW Trans to get to the start and walk through EPCOT back to BWV. You will get to the start early so plan to sit around to save energy. Start slow and get loose as it will take a while to get clear sailing.

More info on my website.

See you in Jan

 

[mla1977]

I've been thinking about doing the half marathon myself. It is a very ambitious plan for me. I'm not a big runner, but I want to stay health and I can't always make it to the pool to swim, but I can run anywhere.

 

[ultramickeymouse]

I've been thinking about doing the half marathon myself. It is a very ambitious plan for me. I'm not a big runner, but I want to stay health and I can't always make it to the pool to swim, but I can run anywhere.

You can do it! The 1/2 may seem intimidating but if you break it down to a week at a time and slowly build, you will be ready in no time. Remember that you have plenty of time(3:30) so if tired from running, just add a little walking.

Always remember that doing Disney races are more for the experience than the official time. Bring a camera and have fun

 

[Calcio]

Hello NEPATSFAN73

I assume that's a tribute to John Hannah, probably the best offensive lineman who ever lived. Either that or you were born in 1973.

With 9+ months to go I would recommend you watch, listen, and read about the races and the weekend itself. Lots of folks here are multiple year veterans of the races, and you'll pick up lots of valuable information by asking questions and reading.

For openers, I'll give you my free opinion (and advice is worth what you pay for it) on 3 items. First, I would recommend you get your packet on Thursday. It takes a while to get the packet and work your way through the show, all well worth it, and doing that as soon as you can will help your mental focus and your physical freshness.

Second, casual touring on Friday before the half is fine, but don't push it, take it easy, try to stay off out of long lines, enjoy yourself, and shut it down in the late afternoon. Staying out late Friday evening guarantees fatigued legs at the start Saturday morning, guaranteeing a very long 13 miles.

Third, I would strongly recommend you enter a couple of races during 2007 so you'll feel comfortable with what you'll face on race day. There are lots of 10K's during the spring, summer and fall, and they will help you learn what works for you on race day. Once you reach the point that you can cover about 6 miles comfortably, register for a 10K, get there early, enjoy the pre-race atmosphere, get into the starting corrals and run a smart race at a comfortable pace, and then enjoy the post-race atmosphere and your accomplishment in starting and finishing.

Good luck

Craig

 

[nepatsfan73]

Thank you for your feedback ultramickeymouse and Calcio. By the way, the 73 is in tribute to John Hannah (who was also a pretty decent wrestler until he decided to concentrate only on football in his later collegiate years). I like the idea of trying some type of race before, just to get a feel. My only concern is that I am recovering from having both hips recently replaced (at different times) and some related complications. Part of why I am doing the half is to motivate myself to get back to 100(or more)% and start being active with my kids again. My surgeon advised not to run, but has OK-ed me trying to do the half if I can meet the pace at a walk. Thus, that is my goal. As such, I am not sure when I will be ready for my first "race"/event.