Calling all Princesses! (2014 Princess Half Marathon Weekend)- thread #2

[keahgirl8]

You won't be alone. It is easy to chat people up in corrals, and even talk to people on the run. I always run alone, but even introverted me will chat people in the corral. Also, depending on your estimated finish, you may be able to hook up with a pace group.

This. I am a solo runner, but I will chat other times!

 

[afnaechiquita]

Ok, so I'm a newbie to running period, let alone running at Disney (definitely not a Disney newbie though)! I've been annoying friends who have run the race with a bunch of questions, so before I bother them again I'll post a couple here?

How long does it usually take to wait in line for a picture with the characters? I've read that some lines are longer than others, and of course those are the ones I want. I'm hoping to stop for the Villains, the Heroes, and Captain Jack, assuming they're out there of course. Also Princess Anna since I'm dressing as her for the race. I'm in Corral N, planning to get there super early so I can make my way to the front, and I finished my 13 mile training run in 2 hours 45 minutes (12:30 mm). How realistic is it for me to get those 3 photos?

I opted not to purchase the race retreat. Will there be areas for me to stretch at right after I finish? I want to get my legs elevated so I won't be hobbling around for 36 hours-learned that one the hard way after the 13 mile training run.

About how long does it take to get back to a resort after the race? I'm just trying to figure out FP+ and when/where I'm going to need to eat. I thought about just bringing a change of clothes and leaving it at bag check, but I'm pretty sure I'm going to need to return to the resort and soak/rest for a little bit.

I think that's all I've got for now. I'm really anxious, but I'm excited too!

for your photos, a few things: 1. you will see the heroes and captain jack twice, once on the way out, and then on the way back. if you wait to get them on the way back, their lines should be shorter. play it by ear of course (if they have no line on the way out, by all means stop and get your photo then). 2. the villains usually have a line, so to be safe i would add 15-20 minutes to your race time, putting you at 3-3:05 finish. 3. princess anna will likely not be on the course. none of the newer princesses (rapunzel, merida) have been on the course, and given that they are so popular and their lines in epcot reach 2+ hours at rope drop, i would not count on seeing her there. sorry, just don't want to get your hopes up!

starting in corral N, you will start around 6:15-6:20. a ~3 hour finish puts you at 9:30 at the latest (i like to give a lot of buffer room when estimating). i would then estimate you getting on a bus at 10 (again, to be safe, giving you time to stretch/take photos/dally a bit if you want/wait in line for the bus). the bus ride will be ~10 minutes. plan your FP+ from there, but i always give myself 20-30 minutes for transport time from the resort to the parks. i would much rather have time to spare walking around disney than be rushing to a reservation.

if you are not picky about stretching areas, the finish area is a whole big parking lot so you can stretch wherever you want. i'm not sure if they have dedicated/padded areas.

hope that helps!

 

[Freight Train]

for your photos, a few things: 1. you will see the heroes and captain jack twice, once on the way out, and then on the way back. if you wait to get them on the way back, their lines should be shorter. play it by ear of course (if they have no line on the way out, by all means stop and get your photo then). 2. the villains usually have a line, so to be safe i would add 15-20 minutes to your race time, putting you at 3-3:05 finish. 3. princess anna will likely not be on the course. none of the newer princesses (rapunzel, merida) have been on the course, and given that they are so popular and their lines in epcot reach 2+ hours at rope drop, i would not count on seeing her there. sorry, just don't want to get your hopes up!

I agree. Take a look at the course map. There's a stretch between miles 2 and 3 that is before the entrance to the T&T Center (where you pay). In the median is where they had Captain Jack for my races. The heroes are in that area too I believe. In my experience the line for Captain Jack was massive going out but not as long coming back (they had another pirate there too who I think was trying to be Barbosa).

Remember that unlike photo ops at the parks, there are no autographs during the race. Nor are there big family groups trying to get every possible combination of people in their pictures. The photo ops during the races are much quicker. After all, everyone is in the same boat in trying to get it done as fast as possible. Have your camera ready and focused if necessary. The photo ops have cast members who will take the photo for you. The busier ones have two CMs, who alternate to make it go even quicker.

I didn't time my waits exactly but last year my daughter really wanted a photo of Louis the alligator, so I stopped at Magic Kingdom (right where Tiana's normal spot is). The line seemed interminable at the time, but when I completed that mile my time was about 18:00. Factoring in the choke points for the crowd at that point on the course, I'd guess my wait was about 3-4 minutes. I didn't stop for Cinderella and Prince Charming at the exit of the park. Their line seemed to be about 20-30 people deep. My best guess is that wait would be at least twice as long as my wait. It'll seem like much, much longer while you're waiting, so watch the clock closely. Also, some folks stiffen up if they're not moving, especially later in the race. If you think that's you, you may want to consider walking in place while in line. Don't worry about looking silly--it's more important that you don't mess up yourself physically.

 

[jbish]

So, according to the website, the highest bib number is 18900 - does that mean there are 18,900 runners? Is that less than last year? For some reason, I thought I read on the first thread that it may have been something like 24,000 runners last year? I also thought that I read that last year was just crazy crowded, and even a little chaotic/disorganized, which may have been a combo of a few factors: 5th anniversary, largest number of runners, fewer corrals, and expo at CSR versus WWOS. For those of you that went last year and those that are more experienced with RD in general, do you expect this year to run more smoothly?

Also, I'm planning on going to Pasta in the Park on Friday evening - this is the only time DH and I will be going to any park this weekend (sad, I know) - given your thoughts on my question above, do you think that Epcot will also be okay (i.e. not crazy jam packed)? Since we are staying onsite, we get to do EMH, which is why I thought it would be worth the price of admission. #fingerscrossed

 

[pinkvol7]

So, according to the website, the highest bib number is 18900 - does that mean there are 18,900 runners? Is that less than last year? For some reason, I thought I read on the first thread that it may have been something like 24,000 runners last year? I also thought that I read that last year was just crazy crowded, and even a little chaotic/disorganized, which may have been a combo of a few factors: 5th anniversary, largest number of runners, fewer corrals, and expo at CSR versus WWOS. For those of you that went last year and those that are more experienced with RD in general, do you expect this year to run more smoothly? Also, I'm planning on going to Pasta in the Park on Friday evening - this is the only time DH and I will be going to any park this weekend (sad, I know) - given your thoughts on my question above, do you think that Epcot will also be okay (i.e. not crazy jam packed)? Since we are staying onsite, we get to do EMH, which is why I thought it would be worth the price of admission. #fingerscrossed

Those are just the bib numbers for those that are only doing the half. If you are doing the GSC, you have bib numbers in the 20,000's. There are about 25,000 or so.

 

[jbish]

Those are just the bib numbers for those that are only doing the half. If you are doing the GSC, you have bib numbers in the 20,000's. There are about 25,000 or so.

So....about the same as last year. Lovely.

 

[PrincessV]

Some folks have been wondering about heat. Goofy last year was hot and humid, and if you've been training in a northern climate my best advice is to watch your pace and get hydrated well before the race (like days before). I saw lots of folks in much better shape than me who didn't appear to have taken the heat seriously and they struggled. Don't be intimidated by the heat--just respect it like you would the ocean or a snake.

I'm in LOVE with this sentence! Yes, yes, yes... take it from a FL gal: respect the heat and humidity. Pre-hydration is key if it winds up being a warm race; don't wait until race day. And s l o w it down. My running pace is easily minutes slower in summer than winter for good reason - slowing down means not overheating.

Better to be sick this week than next, though!

Rest up!

I opted not to purchase the race retreat. Will there be areas for me to stretch at right after I finish? I want to get my legs elevated so I won't be hobbling around for 36 hours-learned that one the hard way after the 13 mile training run.

The race finishes in a gigantic EP parking lot, so it's pretty easy to find a place to sit/stretch. Getting your legs up could be challenging, as there aren't really benches or walls to speak of.

About how long does it take to get back to a resort after the race? I'm just trying to figure out FP+ and when/where I'm going to need to eat. I thought about just bringing a change of clothes and leaving it at bag check, but I'm pretty sure I'm going to need to return to the resort and soak/rest for a little bit.

In my experience at last year's PHM and this year's WDW Half, transportation back to my hotels (AKL and YC) was quite speedy. I had no line at all for AKL last year, and a 5 minute wait for a bus this year. I still bring a change of clothes with me, just in case, as there's still time spent on the bus and I don't want to get chilled. I'd say I was on each bus around 20 minutes or so.

I agree. Take a look at the course map. There's a stretch between miles 2 and 3 that is before the entrance to the T&T Center (where you pay). In the median is where they had Captain Jack for my races. The heroes are in that area too I believe. In my experience the line for Captain Jack was massive going out but not as long coming back (they had another pirate there too who I think was trying to be Barbosa).

Remember that unlike photo ops at the parks, there are no autographs during the race. Nor are there big family groups trying to get every possible combination of people in their pictures. The photo ops during the races are much quicker. After all, everyone is in the same boat in trying to get it done as fast as possible. Have your camera ready and focused if necessary. The photo ops have cast members who will take the photo for you. The busier ones have two CMs, who alternate to make it go even quicker.

I didn't time my waits exactly but last year my daughter really wanted a photo of Louis the alligator, so I stopped at Magic Kingdom (right where Tiana's normal spot is). The line seemed interminable at the time, but when I completed that mile my time was about 18:00. Factoring in the choke points for the crowd at that point on the course, I'd guess my wait was about 3-4 minutes. I didn't stop for Cinderella and Prince Charming at the exit of the park. Their line seemed to be about 20-30 people deep. My best guess is that wait would be at least twice as long as my wait. It'll seem like much, much longer while you're waiting, so watch the clock closely. Also, some folks stiffen up if they're not moving, especially later in the race. If you think that's you, you may want to consider walking in place while in line. Don't worry about looking silly--it's more important that you don't mess up yourself physically.

Thank you for all of these details! I've only stopped for a character pic ONCE in my many rD races, so I've never paid attention to how they work. I'm trying to talk myself into some stops this time, so this is much appreciated!

I also thought that I read that last year was just crazy crowded, and even a little chaotic/disorganized, which may have been a combo of a few factors: 5th anniversary, largest number of runners, fewer corrals, and expo at CSR versus WWOS. For those of you that went last year and those that are more experienced with RD in general, do you expect this year to run more smoothly?

I'm sort of afraid to say it publicly, but... yes, I do expect things to run more smoothly. Last year's expo was a freaking disaster; having it at CSR was a bad call. They've spread things out more at WWOS this time - as they did for Marathon weekend, which I found to be very well organized and easy to navigate. BUT... I wasn't buying NB shoes or other high-demand merchandise. Packet pickup, bibs, general merchandise all were a breeze.

As far as the race itself, I didn't find last year's to be disorganized or chaotic, only crowded. As has been eveyr rD race I've run. It used to bother me, but I've just adjusted my expectations: it is what it is and I make the best of it! It felt like the new corral systems at 2013 TOT and the WDW Half this year made things flow a little better, but yeah - both were still congested.

 

[CynthiaC925]

Hello, 5K waivers for those of us who registered by 2/10 are available to print.
I have found the expos/lines for both run events at WDW and DL to be very well organized and no issues - yes, if you want the shoes you will wait in line to get your appt. but that's a lot better than a mad rush. D&B was also very organized. One line for those who pre ordered and one line for new buyers. The supervisor arranged for me to get my DVC discount too even though I pre registered for my Dooneys. Thank goodness the expo is back at Wide world of sports.

 

[jbish]

I'm sort of afraid to say it publicly, but... yes, I do expect things to run more smoothly. Last year's expo was a freaking disaster; having it at CSR was a bad call. They've spread things out more at WWOS this time - as they did for Marathon weekend, which I found to be very well organized and easy to navigate. BUT... I wasn't buying NB shoes or other high-demand merchandise. Packet pickup, bibs, general merchandise all were a breeze.

As far as the race itself, I didn't find last year's to be disorganized or chaotic, only crowded. As has been eveyr rD race I've run. It used to bother me, but I've just adjusted my expectations: it is what it is and I make the best of it! It felt like the new corral systems at 2013 TOT and the WDW Half this year made things flow a little better, but yeah - both were still congested.

I have found the expos/lines for both run events at WDW and DL to be very well organized and no issues - yes, if you want the shoes you will wait in line to get your appt. but that's a lot better than a mad rush. D&B was also very organized. One line for those who pre ordered and one line for new buyers. The supervisor arranged for me to get my DVC discount too even though I pre registered for my Dooneys. Thank goodness the expo is back at Wide world of sports.

Thank you both for the reassurance!

 

[pixarmom]

Another resounding YES from me! I've met a ton of really great people while racing. At one race in particular I was injured and run/walk pacing myself with another runner in a green headband. Turns out- she was doing the same thing with me and my green shirt. We finished the last 7 or so miles together talking about our love of running and Disney!! We're Facebook friends now and still like to chat about local events we're doing and any runDisney events we might be headed to.

So funny you say that! I ran a semi-local 10K last fall and found a runner who I thought was going at a good pace for me. We ended up running right next to each other for the large majority of the race - not talking, but just running next to each other. Everyone thought we were running together and would cheer for us as if we were a team! We came in first and second in our age group, and finally introduced ourselves after the race! It was really fun, and I appreciate how much Karen helped me improve my time!

On the other hand, I don't always choose a good pacer. Turns out the guy in the full banana suit was too fast for me last fall! I did improve my time, but couldn't keep up with that speedy banana!!

 

[Figment1990]

Another running alone princess here who surprised herself by chatting in corals and on race courses in Disney! Normally I'm rather quiet and shy and one reason I actually like running is to have some alone time in a hectic life. But there is something about Disney races, just like in other parts of Disney, that makes for friendly conversations. I ended up running a mile in the Tink with a girl who was struggling a bit due to an injury. I have never been able to converse while I ran before. Must be Disney magic. I hope she finished, as we got separated at a water stop.

 

[mbfaith406]

Does anyone know what characters are likely to be on the 5k?

 

[lisah0711]

I'll be wearing my WISH shirt while running the 5K and the half and while scream teaming the 10k so if you see me say hello or GO WISH!

 

[BernardandMissBianca]

I've come down with a cold that has led to an enforced taper for the last three days. Really want to get in a 4 miler tomorrow before we get hit with a major snowstorm on Thursday. Wanted to go today but just didn't have the energy to force myself. Better to be sick this week than next, though!

I'm right there with you. The whole house has been sick this week but I am glad we got it over with.

Yay! When is it? I can definitely meet up! What's something he'd find fun that I can bring for him?

It is at Earl of Sandwich at DTD Saturday night at 5pm. No worries bringing him anything, he's happy to do it.

 

[Tybalt]

couldn't keep up with that speedy banana!!

That's great!!!

 

[charmed1212]

Anyone want to take a guess as to what the numbers for the 10k will be? I am trying to see if I can figure out my corral. Lol

My bib number is 33xxx. I am assuming they start in the 30000s but not really sure.

I can't believe it is almost time!! Single digits ladies!!

 

[Mouseketeer Heather]

Snowing...again. *LE SIGH*...

So, haven't had a chance to get on in a few days, just want to give a huge THANK YOU to all of the vets that have posted amazing details and encouragement on this race. As a newbie to rD, I'm a bit nervous, but am finding all this info very reassuring. Thanks again!

And to those that have posted costume pix...WOW. I'm in awe...and totally wishing I had done a costume. Oh well, next time, right?

So the past couple of days have been some of the most brutal weather-wise all season, IMHO. Cold, windy and damp..wind felt like knives yesterday and today. So to pump myself, I starting thinking of all the things I'm looking forward to on PHM, and thought I'd share a few:

1. W-A-R-M-T-H. Seriously, can not wait for balmy tropical breezes and will not complain about a hot and sweaty race.

2. Corral "M", as in M-I-C-K-E-Y (come on, sing it with me...you know you want too!) M-O-U-S-E!!! For whatever reason, I feel like there's less pressure on me in this corral.

3. Meeting all of YOU!

So my last long was in with a 12 miler on the 2nd...and managed over 13 mi on back to back training this past weekend. This weekend is my 14K race, looking forward to posting a pix with some new hardware in hand! After all, I need practice in holding up my medal, right?

 

[GrownUpLilo]

Hi All, I'm SO confused about what to wear for the race.

Normally I'd wear capris and a tank, but I'm worried about being too cold.

I'm a walker and get cold fairly easily, and I know I can bring a throwaway shirt but am worried I'll be cold the whole race.

Guess I should pack all options and make a game day decision?

 

[belle2211]

It is at Earl of Sandwich at DTD Saturday night at 5pm. No worries bringing him anything, he's happy to do it.

I'll be there! Thank you! (And him!)

 

[nervous1sttimer]

Help - I can feel myself getting sick and I don't know what to do. I have sinus pressure and tickling in the back of my throat. Do I load up on ginseng and echinacea to try and make it go away or is it too late? Should I just embrace it and hope it goes away in the next week? I am cognizant of the reasons to avoid antibiotics when there may not absolutely be a need, but I am wondering if I should preemptively get some meds to squash it?

I am doing the GSC - running the 10K and then probably run/walking the half with my mom. And I have two small kids who are looking forward to an active vacation at WDW from February 20 to March 1st, so I can't just make it through next weekend, I need to be healthy for the following week as well.

I don't know what to do!