Bags, Busses, and Booze - A Where has all the Rum gone Girls 2013 F&W TR

[eandesmom]

Soon it was time for me to board the Run Disney bus. One thing I forgot to mention was that our room was VERY close to the Martinique bus stop. Our room not only had a pool view, but was super quick to get to the parking lot or bus stop or even the main building. This was definitely an advantage because I just wanted to get on the bus. So I grabbed my things and went out.


It wasn't very long of a bus ride and we were at the DHS parking lot. I have to say that I prefer the drop off and staging area for this race than for the half marathons I have done. Rather than a long walk from the drop off, it is just right there. Rather than the corrals being far from the staging area, it is just right there. Far less pre race walking involved.

I didn't have a bag to check since Ashley was bringing my stuff with her to the Villians bash. All I had was what I needed for prerace and race. So I walked directly to outside my corral and sat. This included my spibelt to hold my camera, fuel for the way, a prerace snack and a water bottle that I had filled with ice.


and waited......


and waited some more......


I may have arrived a bit early.

So just how early did you arrive?

So I sat waiting and ate my pre race snack and people watched. I wasn't the only one sitting around.





I eventually decided to get up and take advantage of the water station.


Which made me make use of the PoP line.


The line was pretty nonexistent even up to the point I entered my corral. I know I have read about other reports that say that the line was bad. I wonder if this was just not the case because of the fact it was near the front corrals?

Nice to have no line, for whatever reason it was!

After I used the PoP (which is such an experience let me tell you!) I attempted to sanitize my hands. At about the same time I did, others were as well and we all realized we had made a mistake. It was not hand sanitizer. The clear gel that we all had just encased our hands in was in fact soap. AND the water pumps were not working. Well, I didn't hesitate and went directly to the water table where I grabbed a cup to rinse my hands off with. The volunteer there noticed and asked what I (and then others were doing) After being made ware of our dilemma, he nicely opened up a new bottle of water and poured while we rinsed.

YUCK!

With that bit of drama out of the way, it was time to....

wait....

sit and wait...


I took a picture of the time since at that point it seemed very funny to me that I had so much time still to go before the race.


I guess after what had happened to me at the phm, I was a bit overly punctual.

And the race started at what, 10? you were early!

I forget what happened at PHM...

It was a bit on the boring side, I must admit. Most people in that area were there "for business" The back corrals are often called the party corrals. A part of me wanted to be back there and enjoy the "party" rather than be up in the serious crowd. However, that was short lived. Soon enough it WAS time to enter the corral. I was in corral C. I had barely missed the cutoff for B, so I did make sure to be in the front part of C when I started.


Behind me there were a lot more runners!



Then it was time for the corrals to walk to the start. There were not many people in A or B so I had a pretty good view of the initial start.


And

5

4

3

2

1


I do love the fireworks that go off for each corral!

You can even see the start line!

With not many people ahead of me, I didn't fight the congestion nearly like I had in the previous two RD events. My pace was actually not too bad to start. I felt as though "I had this race" Quickly though, this race told me who was boss.

First thing to happen was I attempted to get a character picture. First one was the evil queen disguised as the old witch... She was even trying to get people to bite her apple. She sat out the outside loop of the first clover leaf on ramp. Given this, the road slants slightly away from her. I pulled my camera out .... and...

dropped it.

Not just dropped it but bounced it.

Not just bounced it but bounced it down and across the ramp.

So there I was dodging runner and trying to retrieve my camera.

I retrieved my camera and back in the spibelt it went. I guess I am just not coordinated enough to get pictures. At least not by myself.

Oh my goodness it's not funny but well, it kind of is. I have to come to a full stop to take a picture. Which may well mean zero pictures in August.

After that the first couple miles went by ok. I had thought that the ice in my bottle would be a good idea, but that was the second oops. When I went to take my first sip, all of the water came slushing out since I apparently had cross threaded the cap...or the bottle was stretched from the ice... or something. Needless to say I had little water those first couple of miles and I ended up letting my core temp get too high.

So it all dumped out and you didn't have any? Do you think if you'd have hydrated more prior to the race versus needing it early in that would have helped?

How frequent are the water stations?

UGH!

Still, I ran on. It was such a hot night. I knew it would be. The year before had been hot. I am sure this next will be as well.

My 5k split was still really good considering the heat and the mishap with trying to get my phone. 30:20. But as I said, I allowed my core temp to get up too high and by mile 5 it was really taking its tole on me. I was walking through water stops.

Unless you aren't taking water...it seems to me you really kind of half to walk though to be able to grab, drink and then get rid of the cup. Not for long but I am pretty sure I am not coordinated enough to grab a cup while at a normal full pace, and drink it. I'd just dump it on myself, or all over my hand.

Even so, my 10k split was 1:03:54. By the time I hit the WWOS complex I was really ready to be done. I was starting to consider character stops. There were few people if any in line at each character. Even the really cool ones. I remember looking around at everyone around me and thought that we must all have the same idea.... just get done and don't stop. No one was stopping.

As I ran into DHS I found myself contemplating walking. I was so hot and so wet (from pouring cupful after cupful of water over me). I just wanted to give up. Then as I rounded the hat I had a renewed sense of strength. There near the rope were two wonderful ladies screaming my name. Never have I felt so supported... not before and not after. This was the best feeling I have ever had during a race. Usually, I am in my own world running. I like it that way for the most part. Don't get me wrong, I do think that there is fun to be had if you run with a partner - no matter if you are well matched or not. It is just normally, I am am content to be on my own. However, this moment that was shared with them was very special. It gave me the strength I so needed for that last push through DHS.

that last push. Even though I knew the end was near I also knew it was not as near as all the wonderful volunteers were saying it was. It is kinda brutal. Soon enough though, I saw that glorious finish line and I gave my last bit to sprint across the finish.

The last 4 miles took way longer than they should have. I finished with a time of 1:44:16. This put me 79th in my division. Wow... I don't remember that. In my division I was in the first 100 finishers Looking at althinks I guess there was only 805 in my division... only. I was the 606th woman out of 6129. Overall, I was 1440 out of 9473 place. It was a PR for that race and also for that distance of a race for me.

It is weird though because my finisher certificate lists a different overall place (1437) and athlinks lists a different one too (1438) While really they are about the same, I would hate to misrepresent and say one was the true one. So...somewhere between 1437 and 1440.... that is where I finished.

Next Up: 10/5 Part 3

You are so funny with the numbers . At the end of the day you did it, you had some fun even if you overheated, some pro's (less congested) and some cons. And a really magical moment with random cheerleaders. That's what it's all about, more than the final time, or the splits, or xx out of xx. A PRx2 is a pretty great accomplishment even if the core temp thing was frustrating. You'll take from it and apply that I am sure. And I think with that kind of heat and phone mishaps that's a fine time.

Great update!

I take it that you didn't get that picture of the queen...

 

[annmarieda]

So just how early did you arrive?

Ya know... I am not sure. I must have taken the bus sometime between 7 and 7:30. (probably closer to 7:30) Cut off for boarding was 8pm. So I think even leaving at 8pm would have got me there super early.

Nice to have no line, for whatever reason it was!

I know! I hate those things and waiting in the lines for them can be a pain.

And the race started at what, 10? you were early!

Yep, the race started at 10pm.

I forget what happened at PHM...

At the phm, the cutoff for boarding was 4am. I boarded at 3:30am thinking that would be perfect. I got to the staging area and started to eat my snack. Then drank my water bottle. THEN realized that my corral had already been called. So there was no time for a last PoP stop.

Oh my goodness it's not funny but well, it kind of is.

Honestly, it was funny. I am sure I looked quite amusing to the other serious runners as I was scrambling to pic up my camera that was bouncing down the road.

I have to come to a full stop to take a picture.

Funny thing is I did come to a full stop. My camera got snagged on the pouch it was coming out of and it flipped up and out of my hands as I pulled it out. (the spibelt is stretchy...so kinda like a slingshot)

Which may well mean zero pictures in August.

Bit of a spoiler... but I didn't even attempt to bring on at the donald. Given that we are likely to be in the same corral though... and together prerace at least, I will likely have my camera for August. Pictures on the course may very well not happen though... but I will have the camera.

So it all dumped out and you didn't have any?

Pretty much. When I squeezed the bottle the water ran up and out under the cap rather than out through the spout. Since it was so humid I didn't really realize that it was happening until it was too late. I just kept squeezing wondering where the water was. I tried to fix it, but never got the lid on quite right and so even though there was ice left to melt..each time was the same. I don't know if the ice somehow stretched the neck of the bottle or what, but that bottle has not been the same since that race. I have to really be careful not to cross thread it or the water comes from the cap rather than the spout.

Do you think if you'd have hydrated more prior to the race versus needing it early in that would have helped?

I was pretty hydrated before the race. It is just hard in that heat and humidity to stay hydrated.

How frequent are the water stations?

There were 7 stops along the way... "spaced about 1.5 miles apart" (according to the event brochure..but some where closer to 2 miles and some were only about a mile). The problem was I didn't need the water at the first stop (at about mile 1) The mishap happened right before mile 2 and so I didn't make use of the water station at mile 2. THEN the next one was at about mile 4. This is why my temp got to hot in the first couple mile and then the damage was done by mile 5.

Unless you aren't taking water...it seems to me you really kind of half to walk though to be able to grab, drink and then get rid of the cup. Not for long but I am pretty sure I am not coordinated enough to grab a cup while at a normal full pace, and drink it. I'd just dump it on myself, or all over my hand.

At the phm (and local races) I was/have been pretty coordinated. I would grab and sip (yes, splashing on myself...but that is ok) Then I would grab a second cup (sometimes a third) to either dump over my head or into my water bottle. Spillage was ok since it helped to cool me. At the ToT, the humidity was just too high and no amount of dumping help because it didn't evaporate off. I think everyone grabbing slows a bit...if not walks through.. But it is doable to still run while taking water. So it is a grab, move out of the way, sip and then chuck the cup... seems complicated, but it is comes pretty easily.

You are so funny with the numbers .

I know. I just don't want to misrepresent. I like to be honest where I can.

In line with that... I took a new look at my "official" race certificate last night. I have the first "official" one from RD. NOW the new one has a different set of numbers. Not the times mind you. Those are all consistently reported as the same. It is the number of finishers...and overall placement.

At the end of the day you did it, you had some fun even if you overheated, some pro's (less congested) and some cons. And a really magical moment with random cheerleaders.

I guess I neglected to write about who the wonderful cheerleaders were. That was Ashley and Ginger! They were waiting for me at the Villians bash. They had runtracker going so knew the moment I would be coming into DHS.

Great update!

Thanks!

I take it that you didn't get that picture of the queen...

No.

 

[eandesmom]

Ya know... I am not sure. I must have taken the bus sometime between 7 and 7:30. (probably closer to 7:30) Cut off for boarding was 8pm. So I think even leaving at 8pm would have got me there super early.

I know! I hate those things and waiting in the lines for them can be a pain.

Yep, the race started at 10pm.

Wow, that is early to make everyone get there, sit around and stiffen up. UGH.

At the phm, the cutoff for boarding was 4am. I boarded at 3:30am thinking that would be perfect. I got to the staging area and started to eat my snack. Then drank my water bottle. THEN realized that my corral had already been called. So there was no time for a last PoP stop.

That's right, now I remember. I won't be eating a snack so I'll keep my ears peeled so we don't miss being called.

Honestly, it was funny. I am sure I looked quite amusing to the other serious runners as I was scrambling to pic up my camera that was bouncing down the road.

Oh bet everyone could empathize!

Funny thing is I did come to a full stop. My camera got snagged on the pouch it was coming out of and it flipped up and out of my hands as I pulled it out. (the spibelt is stretchy...so kinda like a slingshot)

My issue (and why I have to come to a true full stop) is that I have my phone in my shorts back pocket. It BARELY fits so getting it out isn't that easy. And if hands are sweaty...yeah, it could go flying. Or unplug my headphones or the like.

Bit of a spoiler... but I didn't even attempt to bring on at the donald. Given that we are likely to be in the same corral though... and together prerace at least, I will likely have my camera for August. Pictures on the course may very well not happen though... but I will have the camera.

I will have my phone for a camera (and tunes) and we will definitely be doing pre-race pics...post too if not actually during. Very likely I won't get it out during though...especially assuming I'm in my normal shorts which I think is probably the best idea if not the cutest in the costume concept department.

Pretty much. When I squeezed the bottle the water ran up and out under the cap rather than out through the spout. Since it was so humid I didn't really realize that it was happening until it was too late. I just kept squeezing wondering where the water was. I tried to fix it, but never got the lid on quite right and so even though there was ice left to melt..each time was the same. I don't know if the ice somehow stretched the neck of the bottle or what, but that bottle has not been the same since that race. I have to really be careful not to cross thread it or the water comes from the cap rather than the spout.

I am water bottle challenged, they seem to do that to me no matter what. I do have a handheld, I think I've used it twice and both times was like hmnnn...why bother. LOL! I will try to train with it on longer runs this summer when it warms up though. Last 2 I've been getting plenty of water on me without carrying a drop.

I was pretty hydrated before the race. It is just hard in that heat and humidity to stay hydrated.

Yeah, I can see where that one hour mark could really be a turning point that was hard to recover from.

There were 7 stops along the way... "spaced about 1.5 miles apart" (according to the event brochure..but some where closer to 2 miles and some were only about a mile). The problem was I didn't need the water at the first stop (at about mile 1) The mishap happened right before mile 2 and so I didn't make use of the water station at mile 2. THEN the next one was at about mile 4. This is why my temp got to hot in the first couple mile and then the damage was done by mile 5.

Gotcha (taking notes here on when to drink water!)

At the phm (and local races) I was/have been pretty coordinated. I would grab and sip (yes, splashing on myself...but that is ok) Then I would grab a second cup (sometimes a third) to either dump over my head or into my water bottle. Spillage was ok since it helped to cool me. At the ToT, the humidity was just too high and no amount of dumping help because it didn't evaporate off. I think everyone grabbing slows a bit...if not walks through.. But it is doable to still run while taking water. So it is a grab, move out of the way, sip and then chuck the cup... seems complicated, but it is comes pretty easily.

The grabbing and chucking to me is less complicated than the drinking. I tried it at the 10 and really didn't get much "into" me. I will try again at the 15. did you take any fuel during ToT?

I know. I just don't want to misrepresent. I like to be honest where I can.

In line with that... I took a new look at my "official" race certificate last night. I have the first "official" one from RD. NOW the new one has a different set of numbers. Not the times mind you. Those are all consistently reported as the same. It is the number of finishers...and overall placement.

Yes, you are the only person I know who felt she should maybe move back a corral!

I guess I neglected to write about who the wonderful cheerleaders were. That was Ashley and Ginger! They were waiting for me at the Villians bash. They had runtracker going so knew the moment I would be coming into DHS.

DOH!

 

[annmarieda]

Wow, that is early to make everyone get there, sit around and stiffen up. UGH.

Ya know, thinking about it..it is weird. Morning races start at 5:30am and the cut off for the bus is just 1 1/2 hours before. ToT starts at 10pm and the cut off is 2 hours before. The walk to the corrals is LONG (maybe some one can chime in cause I would hate to give the wrong distance...but maybe 1/4 mile or more) for the WDW halfs. The corrals are just at the side of the staging area so no walking. They do walk the entire corral line up to the start, but they do that with the half corrals too (and some of them pretty far from the star and have quite the walk from the corral to the start). Seems like the cut off for the races should be reversed. I don't know how anyone could make their corral in time if they boarded the bus at 4am.

That's right, now I remember. I won't be eating a snack so I'll keep my ears peeled so we don't miss being called.

I think part of the problem was it was just me. We should be find with two sets of ears.

My issue (and why I have to come to a true full stop) is that I have my phone in my shorts back pocket. It BARELY fits so getting it out isn't that easy. And if hands are sweaty...yeah, it could go flying. Or unplug my headphones or the like.

yeah... stopping completely or just forgoing the pics is a better idea when you have to grab things out of your back pocket. I have an arm band for my phone, but it isn't really picture taking friendly.

I will have my phone for a camera (and tunes) and we will definitely be doing pre-race pics...post too if not actually during. Very likely I won't get it out during though...especially assuming I'm in my normal shorts which I think is probably the best idea if not the cutest in the costume concept department.

I have seen some people run with a camera or phone in hand. I think that is how people must be able to get so many pictures. I would be sure to drop if it if I attempted it.

I am water bottle challenged, they seem to do that to me no matter what. I do have a handheld, I think I've used it twice and both times was like hmnnn...why bother. LOL! I will try to train with it on longer runs this summer when it warms up though.

I think you just have to find the one that works for you... but man...also your allergy. I bet my bottle would not work for you. The sleeve around the bottle is a neoprene and I believe the handle is too. Amphipod is the brand. I encouraged Steve to try it... but he prefers the nathan bran.

Last 2 I've been getting plenty of water on me without carrying a drop.

What soggy runs there have been lately for sure!!!

Yeah, I can see where that one hour mark could really be a turning point that was hard to recover from.

yeah.. I think I am use my water bottle and fuel more than I need to at this point in the first hour. It is just what I am use to and like... but I think I could survive just about anything for that first hour. It is after that I really do need hydration and fuel...which goes along with standard running recommendations.

Gotcha (taking notes here on when to drink water!)

I think during a long race it is important to take advantage of each water stop just to avoid any trouble at the one..two + hour marks.

The grabbing and chucking to me is less complicated than the drinking. I tried it at the 10 and really didn't get much "into" me. I will try again at the 15. did you take any fuel during ToT?

For some reason, they do not offer fuel at the ToT. Honestly I am fine with it because I bring my own and the cliff shots make me gag anyway. Course, I may have felt better during the donald if I had not skipped that station.

Yes, you are the only person I know who felt she should maybe move back a corral!

 

[eandesmom]

yeah... stopping completely or just forgoing the pics is a better idea when you have to grab things out of your back pocket. I have an arm band for my phone, but it isn't really picture taking friendly.

that's just as difficult, if not more so

I have seen some people run with a camera or phone in hand. I think that is how people must be able to get so many pictures. I would be sure to drop if it if I attempted it.

I'm too afraid my hand would get all sweaty and it would go flying

I think you just have to find the one that works for you... but man...also your allergy. I bet my bottle would not work for you. The sleeve around the bottle is a neoprene and I believe the handle is too. Amphipod is the brand. I encouraged Steve to try it... but he prefers the nathan bran.

the band is good on mine, it's drinking out of it that's the problem. It definitely requires a squeeze..and it's almost like it's so tiny, why bother. I could just run with my camelbak! Which does not sound remotely appealing to me. LOL!

What soggy runs there have been lately for sure!!!

Oh my word, I have had more funny failures due to the rain lately. 2 weeks ago I tried out a new pair of tights. I'd worn them twice before but this was the first rain run. Something about them in the rain WOW it like activated the spandex/lycra like crazy and my legs were on fire after the run. Final sale too so I don't htink I have any recourse and it bums be out as they are very comfortable in in theory should have been better than my "normal" ones, which don't give me issues. New ones are 9% spandex in the lining, "normal" are like 13 I think. That was the run I didn't wear a hat like a dope.

Then, last Sunday I wore my rain jacket, usually I stick to a wicking top. Tried to wear my hood over my hat...couldn't tighten it, couldn't find the elastics to pull, finally did...broke it...lost my earbuds about 10 times in the process..

yeah.. I think I am use my water bottle and fuel more than I need to at this point in the first hour. It is just what I am use to and like... but I think I could survive just about anything for that first hour. It is after that I really do need hydration and fuel...which goes along with standard running recommendations.

If you like it in the first hour, why change that? It may well because you are used to it that the hour mark was even worse,. not to mention that humidity.

For some reason, they do not offer fuel at the ToT. Honestly I am fine with it because I bring my own and the cliff shots make me gag anyway. Course, I may have felt better during the donald if I had not skipped that station.

I've only done the shot blocks twice. First time was meh but tried on one Sunday. It was cold so the thing was like a rock. I figured out though that i can just hold it in my cheek and kind of suck on it and nibble as I go and it was pretty cool actually! Don't know that it helped any but it didn't hurt and was a good test. One good thing about the rain jacket was a pocket to stick it in. LOL!

 

[annmarieda]

I'm too afraid my hand would get all sweaty and it would go flying

Me too! But everyone has their own methods... I can't fault anyone for doing things their own way. I just know what I am capable of and that would include breaking my camera/phone...etc if I held it in my hand.

the band is good on mine, it's drinking out of it that's the problem. It definitely requires a squeeze..and it's almost like it's so tiny, why bother. I could just run with my camelbak! Which does not sound remotely appealing to me. LOL!

I have seen quite a few camelbaks. Honestly... if I didn't think it would bug my neck and shoulders (btw... does it bother yours?) I would try it..especially for the long hot runs in FL.

Oh my word, I have had more funny failures due to the rain lately. 2 weeks ago I tried out a new pair of tights. I'd worn them twice before but this was the first rain run. Something about them in the rain WOW it like activated the spandex/lycra like crazy and my legs were on fire after the run. Final sale too so I don't htink I have any recourse and it bums be out as they are very comfortable in in theory should have been better than my "normal" ones, which don't give me issues. New ones are 9% spandex in the lining, "normal" are like 13 I think. That was the run I didn't wear a hat like a dope.

Oh no! That stinks! Not only for how they made you feel after your run but also cause you can't exactly return them now. UNLESS... did you buy them at Road Runner? VIP? I really love their policy. Even on their clothing... love it or return it within 90 days. Kinda important when you are buying such expensive apparel that has to be worn in order to know if it works.

Then, last Sunday I wore my rain jacket, usually I stick to a wicking top. Tried to wear my hood over my hat...couldn't tighten it, couldn't find the elastics to pull, finally did...broke it...lost my earbuds about 10 times in the process..

that does not sound like fun. I fight with earbuds all the time. I need to just breakdown and purchase a pair of yurbuds so they are sized to my ear canal... I just keep putting it off.

If you like it in the first hour, why change that? It may well because you are used to it that the hour mark was even worse,. not to mention that humidity.

You could be right... maybe it was so hard on me because of how I am conditioned to need it so frequently.

I've only done the shot blocks twice. First time was meh but tried on one Sunday. It was cold so the thing was like a rock. I figured out though that i can just hold it in my cheek and kind of suck on it and nibble as I go and it was pretty cool actually! Don't know that it helped any but it didn't hurt and was a good test. One good thing about the rain jacket was a pocket to stick it in. LOL!

Glad it worked for you... and I think the way you "cheeked" it is great. I do that too... Steve can't handle doing that. He feels like he might choke.

 

[annmarieda]

I feel kinda guilty here. I am reaching the end before Ashley has had a chance to give her updates. I will continue to link them when she posts them.. but given that she is still quite busy with work, moving and growing her little princess I would understand if her updates took a bit more time.

I think I may have forgot to mention a very important thing that was happening during the last day or so of the trip. A little angry lady was threatening to cause Ashley and Ginger to head home early. It was so hard because I could tell that Ginger wanted to be cautious and leave "just in case" While Ashley was trying to remain optimistic and realistic. Karen (I think that was her name) was a hurricane... then a tropical storm. I can't remember if she then became a hurricane again. Bottom line, Ashley and Ginger were watching the weather forecasts CLOSELY! Karen's path was not something that they wanted to drive through on their way home nor was it something that they wanted to come home to.

It was questionable as to if they would be able to stay long enough for the race. So the fact that they were able to stay made the moment I mentioned where they were there screaming my name all the more special.

After I crossed the finish line, I started my way through the "shoot" (not sure what else to call it... volunteers keep you moving. You get your medal, water, powered, banana, food box, picture taken... you just keep moving) Soon enough you spit out near the front of DHS. In fact it is right at the hub near the bathroom that there is a backstage gate. Perfect!

I stopped at the restroom to get cleaned up a bit with the moist washcloth they gave. (and for a much needed bio break in a REAL restroom) The moist washcloth was new. I had not go that after the 2012 ToT nor at the phm. (nor would I at the donald) I guess maybe the heat made Disney want to give something extra? In any case, it was AMAZING. It was cold for some reason. I wiped my face with it and it was glorious. Until.....

Until I licked my lips.

and then my tongue went numb. Yes, lesson learned. Don't use cloth on face. Maybe forehead and neck... just stay away from eyes and mouth. or you will be in for a shock.

It was then time to go to bag check, meet up with the gals. Ya know, I think I may have thought Ashley had my bag. Now I am thinking I checked it. Yep... I think I checked it BECAUSE of Karen!!! The original plan was for Ashley to bring it for me. That was the plan. However, I do know that they thought they might have to leave at any moment. So I bet that plan changed. Cause I do remember meeting them at back check and I remember going into the Indiana Jones Stunt area. Only this time, unlike in 2012 where they had us walk down the main stairs in the amphitheater, we got to enter at "ground" level. No stairs to go up or down.

I had my bag in hand and was headed toward the changing tent (also something a bit different at this race than any of the other 3 that I have done) when I heard Ashley call my name.

They waited for me while I changed. It was a good idea. My clothes were SOAKED. I had dumped water over me at each stop and it had not evaporated away or dried. It was that humid. Problem was the tent was CRAZY humid inside. I felt like I was going to pass out in there. Also, I am not particularly modest. But it did throw me that it was just an open tent for all the women to change in.

After I changed, I started to nibble on my food box.


We walked over to the "I did it" merchandise. I was tempted. I just still couldn't justify spending the money on the jacket I wanted.

Then we made our way TSM. First though, Ginger said her good byes. I was told that Karen was just making them (her) too uncomfortable and she wanted to get on the road first thing in the morning. (I want to say 4am?) It was going to be early though and since she was driving she wanted to get back to the room, pack up and get some sleep. It had been so nice to spend time with her. To share a vacation with this person I had never met but now connected with. I was sad to see her go. After some hugs she was on her way.

This left Ashley and I. We lingered a bit near TSM watching the runners. The way back original plan had someone else on the trip with us and running the race. Even though we were told that she would not be going and even that day messages sent avoided the topic (I assume to further propagate the notion that she had not been able to make the trip) Ashley and I knew that she had in fact made it. Whatever the reason she felt that she needed to lie about going, we were happy that she did in fact make it. I was happy she was going to be crossing that finish line and while our cheers were general screams of encouragement for all the runners going by, we did want to make sure we were around when she passed by. Once she did, we went into TSM.

One ride and then Ashley was hungry. So we went to grab something at one of the cs locations that was open.

Since neither Ashley nor I are big "thrill" ride people, we did not need to ride ToT or RNRC. I can't remember what time it was, but I know we left long before the party was over. She had to be up early to head out. I had to be up to check out of CBR. It was a rather sad ride back on the bus.

Next Up: 10/6 - Part 1

 

[afwdwfan]

One of my favorite breakfast on property is in AK at TH.

Hopefully we'll get a chance to try this one soon!

Boma is another "tradition" for me when it comes to races. It is a good last meal since there isn't anything too greasy, good lean protein and lots of grain/rice dishes. (oh and lets not forget some nummy desserts that are just a nibbling so not so much to "do you in")

Hadn't really thought about all that, but it makes a lot of sense. I can think of much worse pre race "traditions."

First thing to happen was I attempted to get a character picture. First one was the evil queen disguised as the old witch... She was even trying to get people to bite her apple. She sat out the outside loop of the first clover leaf on ramp. Given this, the road slants slightly away from her. I pulled my camera out .... and...

dropped it.

Not just dropped it but bounced it.

Not just bounced it but bounced it down and across the ramp.

So there I was dodging runner and trying to retrieve my camera.

Oh no... Hopefully it didn't get damaged?

I just wanted to give up. Then as I rounded the hat I had a renewed sense of strength. There near the rope were two wonderful ladies screaming my name. Never have I felt so supported... not before and not after. This was the best feeling I have ever had during a race. Usually, I am in my own world running. I like it that way for the most part. Don't get me wrong, I do think that there is fun to be had if you run with a partner - no matter if you are well matched or not. It is just normally, I am am content to be on my own. However, this moment that was shared with them was very special. It gave me the strength I so needed for that last push through DHS.

that last push. Even though I knew the end was near I also knew it was not as near as all the wonderful volunteers were saying it was. It is kinda brutal. Soon enough though, I saw that glorious finish line and I gave my last bit to sprint across the finish.

That is great. I'm not a runner. I don't enjoy it at all. But I've thought that it would be a lot of fun to try to run a Run Disney event, even if just to experience a moment like this.

It was a PR for that race and also for that distance of a race for me.

That's great! Not bad at all considering the fact that you were getting too hot and feeling somewhat discouraged throughout the race!

It is weird though because my finisher certificate lists a different overall place (1437) and athlinks lists a different one too (1438) While really they are about the same, I would hate to misrepresent and say one was the true one. So...somewhere between 1437 and 1440.... that is where I finished.

I don't think anyone is going to nit pick between a couple of spots. The important thing is that you ran the race, and that you finished. Congratulations!

I wiped my face with it and it was glorious. Until.....

Until I licked my lips.

and then my tongue went numb. Yes, lesson learned. Don't use cloth on face. Maybe forehead and neck... just stay away from eyes and mouth. or you will be in for a shock.

:: What the heck do they put on that thing???

First though, Ginger said her good byes. I was told that Karen was just making them (her) too uncomfortable and she wanted to get on the road first thing in the morning. (I want to say 4am?)

That's a shame that they had to leave early, but I'm definitely glad that they were able to be there for the race and cheer you on!

 

[annmarieda]

Hopefully we'll get a chance to try this one soon!

You really should!

Hadn't really thought about all that, but it makes a lot of sense. I can think of much worse pre race "traditions."

I think worse depend on the person. We each have our own special set of dietary needs. Lean protein and grains tend to be a great idea for me. The spices though could set some people off. There are also some small desserts there and if I don't overindulge... it is the right amount of sweet. I think a regular sized dessert elsewhere could be an issue for me.

Oh no... Hopefully it didn't get damaged?

That poor little camera has been dropped more times than I can count. The edges are so sad. However it continues to take wonderful pictures (not that I can get them... I tend to not be the best photographer). Even when I stop for pp pics, the photographers will say how much they love that camera. (not specifically mine...the brand) It is a cannon power shot.

That is great. I'm not a runner. I don't enjoy it at all. But I've thought that it would be a lot of fun to try to run a Run Disney event, even if just to experience a moment like this.

I think that moment is amazing no matter what your reasons for crossing it. I think there are many people who participate in RunDisney events who don't like running or actually hate it. I actually like the running. I like what it does for my health, my body, my esteem. I get quiet time when I am running. That is my time for me... to pray.. to listen to music.. to be in my life. So much of my time is spent rushing here or there. When I run I don't have to do that. The RunDisney races are like icing on a cake. rotfl: if I liked icing... which I don't )

Point is, you should try one!! You don't have to go fast... or even run. You just need to be able to stay ahead of the sweepers in order to get to that finish line.

That's great! Not bad at all considering the fact that you were getting too hot and feeling somewhat discouraged throughout the race!

It didn't reflect my training pace... but I was happy with it nonetheless.

I don't think anyone is going to nit pick between a couple of spots. The important thing is that you ran the race, and that you finished. Congratulations!

Thank you so much.

:: What the heck do they put on that thing???

Probably some kind of biofreeze... which makes sense. I just wish I would have thought about it before ingesting it.

That's a shame that they had to leave early, but I'm definitely glad that they were able to be there for the race and cheer you on!

I am too! They are both such nice ladies. I hated to see them go... but was so grateful that they were there for me.

 

[annmarieda]

As expected due to Karen, Ashley and Ginger woke early and were out the door. I know I woke before they left. (did I stir or did we say final goodbyes ) I do know I went back to sleep once they left.

I didn't sleep for long though because I did need to check out of CBR. It took some doing to get everything crammed into my luggage. After all there was a huge amount of candy that I now was adding... not to mention gifts for everyone back home.

I decided I would minimize later since I had scheduled bell services to come and get my bags and my time was quickly approaching.

Soon enough there was a knock on my door. We were on the top floor and CBR does not have elevators. I had not worried about that at check in, but now someone else was having to deal with my stuff. So I felt really bad. I tipped him well.

Next, I had to find a family to give remaining items to. I felt kinda odd waiting by the stairwell. Someone had been kind to us when we checked in and loaded us up with a HUGE bag of fruit and drinks. I am not sure we made use of much of it so there was a lot of water bottles and gatorade left. (I think I threw out any remaining fruit) I also think there was some halloween decorations that may have been passed along.

In any case, I found the perfect family and they were happy to take the bag of items off my hands.

Then it was time to truly say good bye to CBR


Overall, I think CBR exceeded my expectations. I wouldn't say that I would jump to stay there again but I won't say I will never stay there again. It is my least favorite moderate though just because of the odd check in method and I find Port Royal just odd in general too. The center shop kinda that also acts as a "front desk" just off of the food court... However the grounds and pools are quite nice. The food options at the food court are unique.

I can't remember how I left. By cab? Pretty sure.

We had planned to eat breakfast together. However since the ladies had to leave, it was just me. I am a creature of habit in many ways. I have deemed Kouzzina my "traditional" post race breakfast. I am not sure why so much after this breakfast and my breakfast after the donald... but I guess I will still go with it.

I arrived and got my pager. I went outside to ooh and ahh over the view.



Soon enough it was time for me to be seated. I was seated in a small table (almost exactly where I was seated the year before) My server came up to me and asked for my drink order. I asked for just water. She came back with 2 glasses very quickly and then took my order for food. That is the LAST time I saw her.

I then waited for me food. While I waited I took a picture of my bling.



It wasn't that long, a normal amount of time, before my food came. Someone I assume was the manager dropped it off without a word.


I was then left to my own devices. I am glad I was given two glasses of water because no one refilled them or even asked if I would like a refill. I ate my breakfast and then waited.

It was a ridiculous amount of time. I had someone speak to me all of twice. (once to get my drink order and then to get my food order) I know I was just a party of one but I hardly think I was invisible.

I had to ask for the bill and to get maybe a tad more water. (a gal who ran a 10mile race the night before needs to rehydrate!)

Leaving, I felt a bit more than irritated. However it was a beautiful day and I had a nice walk to Epcot.

There I made a bee line for the food and wine festival booths.

I had been good all week at noting what we each had tried. However on this day I neglected to do it.

First thing though I got this


It appears to be maybe an irish coffee. I know it was a boozy drink though because I texted Ashley that I again had found the rum. (even though there was technically no rum in it.)

Walking around a bit, it was nice to take a leisurely stroll. I wished that Ashley was still there, but we were staying in touch via text messages.

I did see someone I recognized though. As I was walking I saw the person who was going to be with Ashley and I originally. I wasn't surprised by this as much as I would have been had I not already figured out that she in fact did make the trip. I slowed and attempted to get her attention a bit by waving. When she finally saw me I did get a quick "oh, hi" out of her. She had her hands full of food and wine offerings though and rushed off. Shortly after I got a message on facebook from her that I should have come over to her. I could tell I really surprised her though and as I mentioned.. she had her hands full. Not the sort of dismeet that I had wanted to have with her, but sometimes you take what you can get.

More food and wine samplings



I had fp+ reservations so I thought I would head in the direction of them even though I had some time before the first one. Passing by Maelstrom, I noticed there was no wait. Since I had HOURS until this fp+, I decided to hop on then and skip my fp+





I finished up a walk around WS by stopping in the French bakery.







I can't believe how nice it is now that they remodeled it and moved it.

It was then time for my first fp+ reservation. So I left WS and walked to Future world.


Where I went into here.


My very first use of a fp+ reservation was super easy! Getting on Soarin was quick and painless.

I had one fp+ reservation left, but I decided I wanted to check into my home for the night. I was excited because it was to be my first "official" DVC stay. So I left Epcot and said good bye.

Next Up: 10/6 - Part 2

 

[dizneeat]

You are absolutely right about CBR being a bit odd. But we loved staying in the pirate rooms.

Very odd service at Kouzzina and I might add that I had the exactly same breakfast you had, boy was it tasty.

Love the food (and drink) you had - and a good FP+ experience. What could be better.

 

[annmarieda]

[You are absolutely right about CBR being a bit odd. But we loved staying in the pirate rooms.

I think the pirate rooms would have been fun. When we originally were talking about CBR though we were concerned about how far from Port Royal it was...

Very odd service at Kouzzina and I might add that I had the exactly same breakfast you had, boy was it tasty.

It was odd service... and yes, that is my favorite breakfast there. Perfect for after a race.

Love the food (and drink) you had - and a good FP+ experience. What could be better.

It really was a nice last day in Epcot! I wish that Ashley and Ginger were still there to enjoy it, but alone time is not bad either.

 

[KatMark]

Okay, I'm caught up here too (well, mostly).

That was very nice of you to give the water and gatorade away (I hate wasting that stuff).

The CBR is pretty, but it is the least favorite of our moderates in just visiting as well.

That was totally uncalled for with your service at breakfast and no one speaking to you. You are a paying customer after all!

That drink you got, with or without rum, looks very refreshing. And what I wouldn't give to walk around Epcot by myself.

 

[Nakkira]

Onboard! Love the TR title



BTW I too am impressed with the bakery re-model although it has lost some of it's former "Cozy" feel

 

[eandesmom]

Your experience does NOT make me want to go to Kouzzina for breakfast after our red eye in Sept.

Hmmn.

Love the medal, it is so cool!!!!!!

Mnnn food and wine, what a great reward after 10 hot miles.

 

[annmarieda]

Okay, I'm caught up here too (well, mostly).

That was very nice of you to give the water and gatorade away (I hate wasting that stuff).

Well, it was given to us. I just could not see just throwing it out.

The CBR is pretty, but it is the least favorite of our moderates in just visiting as well.

Glad I am not alone in this... I can't say I hate it though... or even really dislike it. I just like the others more.

That was totally uncalled for with your service at breakfast and no one speaking to you. You are a paying customer after all!

It was! I was not all that cranky about it.. but it definitely didn't make me happy. This was one time that the TIW card kinda made me frustrated. Cause without it... I would have just not left a tip. I wouldn't have felt anger or anything... just no tip. Since tip is automatic with TIW.. I felt frustrated. Also, not sure if I mentioned it.. but it wasn't even like the restaurant was busy. I truly do not know WHAT my server was doing during her shift cause I didn't see her going to any tables.

That drink you got, with or without rum, looks very refreshing. And what I wouldn't give to walk around Epcot by myself.

It wasn't as refreshing as I would have liked. It was pretty sweet after all... but walking around by myself was awesome!!! It would only have been better if Ashley had still been there.

Onboard! Love the TR title

Glad to have you onboard and that you like the TR title. Ashley is to praise for that. I couldn't quite come up with one. But since we shopped a lot, rode busses a lot and well.. while the booze wasn't as flowing as maybe it would have been for me had I not had the race, it was food and WINE festival and so there was times we all partook. (until the rum had to be gone for me cause of the race )

BTW I too am impressed with the bakery re-model although it has lost some of it's former "Cozy" feel

You are right! It did lose some didn't it? It is much more modern feeling too... which I both love and kinda don't. No longer is it the cozy quaint little patisserie.

Your experience does NOT make me want to go to Kouzzina for breakfast after our red eye in Sept.

Well, after you read my review of January you really won't want to go there. Yet... for me.. it will be on my list for October. A creature of habit I am.

Love the medal, it is so cool!!!!!!

Thanks! It is so cool. Funny how in just a years time I went from not caring one iota about the medal to being a far bit excited. I still have to figure out where I have put all my medals...so still not the biggest reasons I run... but I am getting there and definitely excited to get new ones.

Mnnn food and wine, what a great reward after 10 hot miles.

It was. I definitely wish that I had the race first rather than last. I would have felt a little more like I could "let loose". Come this October I will have more days after the race... just because I want to really be able to enjoy without worrying about what I am putting in my body.

 

[annmarieda]

As many of you know, my dh and I purchased our first (yes, I say first cause we both already have addonitis) dvc contract in 2013. Our UY is December and while our contract was not "stripped" our 2013 points would not hit the account until after the fall trip. Had the contract come with banked points or 2012 points then I would have reserved more nights in the fall with them. However given I 0 2012 points I would have to borrow against 2013 points in order to book a room in the fall of 2013 (I know.. it is confusing... 2012 points get used for 2013 reservations ) Anyway, since Ashley and Ginger were leaving, but I would be staying one more night I would have to pay oop for a room for that last night. I decided to go ahead and just borrow the points and booke a room at Kidani.

So leaving Epcot, I took the bus directly there. I checked in and was assigned my room on the same floor as the lobby. There was a snag with my bags. When I checked to see if they had been delivered. No one knew where they had gone. So while they figured it out, I went to my room to check out my view.

Swiped my magic band and voila, this is what I saw.






My room exceeded my expectations!






I decided to check out more of the resort while I waited for my luggage to arrive.

Sunset here is quite amazing.



Even though I didn't have my suit to go swimming I still had to check out the pool.





This hotels has me longing to go back in a way that most of the delux resorts have not. Why does it have to be so far from everything???

On my way back to my room, I grabbed my bags. They had been delivered to AKL rather than Kidani so they had to be shuttled back over.

Next Up: 10/6 - Part 3

 

[MEK]

Very cool medal from the race.

Sorry all the girls had to check out early due to a storm. That stinks, but better safe than sorry.

That picture of CBR is so pretty. I think its a really lovely resort but I agree that the check-in is weird.

I'm glad you still had your post race breakfast.

Yay for F&W! I just love seeing all the yummy samples. It looks like it was a beautiful day.

 

[MEK]

Oh yeah - your studio at AK is so cute! And the view is perfect. I just love that resort.

 

[eandesmom]

LOVE your view! I'd have gotten a drink from the pool bar or something from the store and gone back to the balcony

Well, after you read my review of January you really won't want to go there. Yet... for me.. it will be on my list for October. A creature of habit I am.

Hmmn. So that leaves me with Cape May: pro = buffet and Jeff likes that. Con = overpriced, characters (cute but don't care) and I'm not a buffet gal or Captain's Grille...again.

Or we leave the BW area and go somewhere totally different.

We land at almost 10. It will likely be 11 by the time we get to the resort. We may have issues getting breakfast anyway. I am told F&W should have soft opening that day of kiosks I suppose there is Askerhaus but the menu has never really appealed to me much.

Much as I really LOVE to go out for breakfast after the red eye I have a feeling we may just have to get a coffee and a pastry at the bakery and then snack our way around the world if kiosk are really open a day early. Or we just play it by ear depending on what time we get to the resort and how we feel.

I kinda want to go to Kona the next morning anyways, have never done it for breakfast and that might be fun. We will see.

Thanks! It is so cool. Funny how in just a years time I went from not caring one iota about the medal to being a far bit excited. I still have to figure out where I have put all my medals...so still not the biggest reasons I run... but I am getting there and definitely excited to get new ones.

There are some super cute racks you can get. I don't know that I would as I just won't do enough to fill it up and am not sure where I would hang it but...you never know!