I Can't Believe I Ran the Whole Thing: A 2016 Dopey Challenge Trip Report

[stacy~**]

I wanted to say Hi! and let you know I'm really enjoying your report. This weekend was my first rD event (5k and half) and I am sooo hooked! I am pretty obsessed with the idea of running the marathon next year (it would be my first) just trying to decide if I want to add Goofy or Dopey to it so I am looking forward to your thoughts of running your first marathon along with Dopey.

Haha on the drink at DHS...of all times to get a super strong drink...the night before a 3am race wake-up call.

Your story about the buses has me nervous. As a "newbie" I took the earliest bus each race morning and decided in the future I would opt for a bit more sleep and take my chances on the later buses....I probably still will because really being there hours early was just a bit too long.

Via Napoli is love! Seriously the best pizza.

 

[Mimsy Borogove]

This is awesome!! I can't wait to read more. I hope to do this one day. Keep it coming.

Thanks for following along!

Trader Sam's looks so fun!! Very intrigued about this whole certain drinks mean certain events type of things. Sounds like a blast!

Glad to hear you were able to throw on the tv and roll with the noise punches. Can't wait to see what your 10k costume is- I'm guessing something from the Up family!

I love Trader Sam's! The events are highly entertaining, I think everyone should go there at least once. You are on the scent for my 10K costume!

I wanted to say Hi! and let you know I'm really enjoying your report. This weekend was my first rD event (5k and half) and I am sooo hooked! I am pretty obsessed with the idea of running the marathon next year (it would be my first) just trying to decide if I want to add Goofy or Dopey to it so I am looking forward to your thoughts of running your first marathon along with Dopey.

Haha on the drink at DHS...of all times to get a super strong drink...the night before a 3am race wake-up call.

Your story about the buses has me nervous. As a "newbie" I took the earliest bus each race morning and decided in the future I would opt for a bit more sleep and take my chances on the later buses....I probably still will because really being there hours early was just a bit too long.

Via Napoli is love! Seriously the best pizza.

Thanks for following and I'm glad you're enjoying the report. Yeah, rD is quite the addiction! I started with a 5K in 2013, soon it was a half, then I was never going to do halfs again and did the TOT 10-Miler. Last year I did Coast to Coast and this year I'm signed up for 3 rD half marathons. It's for sure an expensive habit!

I was just glad the super strong drink was the night before the 5K and not any of the longer races. Of course, after Trader Sam's, I didn't imbibe until after* the marathon (you'll have to see what the * stands for later on ) the rest of the weekend. Via Napoli is so good, I'd already made ADRs for Star Wars Half weekend! DH of course did not object.

 

[Mimsy Borogove]

Day 3, January 8 - Have you seen a bird? I am going to find one, and I am on the scent.

After finally getting a good night's sleep, our respective alarms went off at 2:30am and we went about gathering up our costume components. BRF was going as mermaid Ariel with the mermaid tail Sparkle Skirt and glittery purple clamshell bra over a white tank. I dressed as Kevin from UP. One thing I feel that I should mention is that I make my costumes from scratch, I have no sewing machine so any sewing is done by hand and I'm not a Pinterester. So my costumes may not be perfect looking in terms of craftsmanship or Pinterest standards, but they certainly are unique!


Kevin's a GIRL?!?

For this costume, I used a red Sparkle Athletic visor (love them) and added Kevin's eyes made from craft foam and attached to alligator clips (so I can reuse the visor later), added some yellow tulle to the visor and made a feather headdress using peacock feathers stripped to the ends and reinforced with floral wire and tape (attached to alligator clip). All my costumes for marathon weekend were tank-based because Florida and also because if needed, base layers could be added. It was quite rainy and chilly the morning of the 10K, so I was very glad I'd packed my Raw Threads Club hoodie. If you're not familiar with Raw Threads, they are bamboo-based running clothing and they are so soft. The hoodie was perfect for under my tank to keep me warm and to keep the rain off my head while in the corrals without being too heavy. I also had a basic yellow Sparkle Skirt over which I'd crafted a makeshift half-tutu to evoke Kevin's rather colorful plumage. It consisted of sparkly tulle in red, purple, royal blue, and of course the aqua-colored tiny wings.

We made our way to the bus station and there were a lot of people waiting again. Finally a bus pulled up with no seats, but the driver said we could stand if we wanted to. After the previous day's wait, and wanting to get to the corrals as quickly as possible (I'd rather get there and wait in the corrals so at least I know I'm there on time), we took him up on his offer. So we stood the entire way to Epcot on the bus. This was the only other bus snafu we experienced and admittedly we can take at least half the blame. But we were there and breezed right through security because once again, no bags. We both had our well-earned rD mylars from the day before and I was so glad I'd scored one because it served two purposes: keeping me warm during pre-race and keeping most of the rain off of me.

The corrals were the same as the previous day's for the 5K: A through F and we were in D again, so we watched and waited for the higher corrals to be released and soon it was our turn. The rain had been off and on throughout our entire wait and seemed to stop shortly before we were to start, but it soon became apparent that this was not going to be a dry race! We ditched our mylars shortly before the start because apparently the material interferes with the timing mats picking up your bib as you cross. We heard the announcers make the "we found Nemo!" joke for roughly the 8th time and then we were off.



And it was just miserable. Dark, raining, cold, the whole shebang. Our strategy for the 10K was similar to the 5K: warm up for the first half mile or so and then do intervals to keep legs fresh for the two big races coming up the next days. Within the first mile, there was an overpass where Anna and Elsa stood above us making it snow. Great, but Elsa, could you do something about this rain? Soon we came upon a lighted area with flowers and a mushroom, so I'm guessing that if it hadn't been raining, it'd been a Wonderland character stop. And not long after that, a lighted area with an airplane and the Duck Tales theme playing. No characters, though, because of the rain, but I'm guessing it would have been Launchpad McQuack and/or Darkwing Duck. Bummer.



Then it was in to World Showcase! Same entrance as the 5K, between Mexico and Norway. We selfied in front of the WS Lagoon again, near Italy, but that was pretty much it for photos because it was still. raining. The only characters I remember seeing in the WS was Remy and Emile in France, but the line wrapped around the outside of the pavilion from the fountain all the way back to the bridge. Oof. I wouldn't have minded a photo with the two rats, but that line looked really long and while we weren't worried about time/pace at this point, being out in the cold and rain was just miserable. So we kept going, out through the International Gateway and then towards Boardwalk. The Boardwalk is - obviously - a wooden pathway and due to the rain was slippery. So we decided to stop running and just walk it - with my luck, I'd go down hard in the middle of the 10K and totally blow my Dopey chances. At Boardwalk, I did see Mike and Sully outside ESPN Club, and somebody called out, "Kevin!!!" Is that my fan?



We made our way around towards the Swan/Dolphin and the pebbled pathway seemed even more slippery than the Boardwalk, so we continued walking. Our pace totally bottomed out as a result, but better our pace than us. Then the bridge from Swan/Dolphin to the Yacht Club seemed even more slippery, as if that was possible, and we took it extra carefully on the downslope. Somebody behind us wasn't so lucky and we heard and then saw them go down. Ouch. On we went past Yacht Club, then Beach Club and there were a few guests out cheering, but I don't blame the ones who stayed inside a bit. Then up the hill back towards Epcot, where I spotted the Tweedles just outside the gate. BRF asked if I wanted to stop for a photo, but we were so drenched and so cold, I just wanted to finish. She agreed.



Soon we were going through the breezeway between the Character Stop and Innoventions, where Phineas and Ferb had a stop. I said, "where's Perry?" and kept going, towards Spaceship Earth and out the park towards the finish line! We finished strong and received our cute medals. Then we zeroed in on the rD mylars because we were both freezing. There was a much more civilized line for such today and soon we had mylar in hand, headed to the water/Powerade and then the rD food boxes and bananas. Two races down, two to go! And here's hoping we'd have better weather than we'd had so far.



Next up: Try the Grey Stuff, it's delicious!

 

[cavepig]

Great Report! Yes, it was Darkwing and Launchpad at the airplane, I think I waited about 7-8 minutes and they kept warning us they would have to go in if the rain picked up.

I need to work on a report too as I love reading others! Great costumes too! My thing is who cares if they are pinterest worthy, it's as long as you like them!

Elsa and Anna weren't out when I went by, just the setup.

I took it easy on the boardwalk path too, better safe than wiped out. Can't wait to read the rest!

 

[Mimsy Borogove]

Great Report! Yes, it was Darkwing and Launchpad at the airplane, I think I waited about 7-8 minutes and they kept warning us they would have to go in if the rain picked up.

I need to work on a report too as I love reading others! Great costumes too! My thing is who cares if they are pinterest worthy, it's as long as you like them!

Elsa and Anna weren't out when I went by, just the setup.

I took it easy on the boardwalk path too, better safe than wiped out. Can't wait to read the rest!

Ooh, nice character get on the Darkwing/Launchpad photo op! Thanks about the costumes, and you're totally right, of course. Thanks for following and commenting!

 

[Mimsy Borogove]

Day 3, January 8 - Try the Grey Stuff, It's Delicious!

Before I continue on, I forgot to post the 10K finisher photo (again, I've pre-purchased the MarathonFoto package, just waiting for more marathon photos, I'm sure they're busy between WDW/SW weekends). Drenched finisher Kevin. Like water off a duck's back. The poor peacock feathers were so puny-looking after the deluge.



I must say that while I'm not really a fan of the Fab Five (gasp! what?!), that the WDW marathon weekend medals are just superb. The Minnie 10K medal is beyond adorable. So cute.

But where was I? Oh, yes. We'd finished up the 10K - 9.3 miles down, 39.3 to go - and caught a bus back to CBR where we cleaned up, took showers, posted photos to social media. You know, the important stuff. And then we were set to head to MK for a while. On Wednesday night while waiting for the Osborne Lights, the topic of Be Our Guest had come up and BRF mentioned that she'd never been there. Oh, this cannot be! I must do something to remedy this gross oversight. So I got on the MDE app right there and then and searched for lunch rezzies for after the 10K. Lo and behold, there was availability for 10:50am after the 10K. I don't know what reservation deities were looking out for us that day, but thanks. Sold. Booked. Done. Fast forward to Friday, and we were on our way!

We caught a bus to MK and just as we arrived, the skies opened up and it was pouring. Because of course it was. We'd just gotten dry and warm, so here we go again! But we braved the pelting water from the skies and made our way into the park. Once we were under the train station (after passing my very favorite sign in the entire world: here you leave today and enter the world of yesterday, tomorrow, and fantasy), where there was an impromptu and chaotic poncho sale (seriously, it was like the stock market trading floor), we decided to head to the Emporium and get a poncho. The reasons were twofold: we couldn't stand being rained on anymore, and by purchasing a poncho we all but guaranteed clear skies thereafter. A $9 investment in good weather? Done and done.

So we put on our weather-controlling devices and started walking back to New Fantasyland. Back in 2012 when it first opened, AP Holders could enter a lottery for a sneak peak pass and DH and I had actually gotten tickets! So before NF was open to the public, we were allowed a 4-hour block of time to explore the sights and sounds in relative low crowds. At the time, we'd just intended to check out Be Our Guest decor and such, but then we decided to go ahead and eat there. It turned out to be a good decision, because after that, we'd been lucky in getting walk-up entries only twice after and then when they started taking ADRs for lunch, it was all over for us and our impromptu daytrips to the parks. I hadn't been to Be Our Guest in a couple years, so I was curious about how things had changed.

But upon arrival, it was not quite time for our ADR, so BRF and I headed down to the gift shop and Gaston's Tavern area. Gaston was not out at the time, so we went into the gift shop. I hadn't been in there in quite some time and fell in love with a working Cogsworth clock that DH later vetoed (poop), and just enjoyed wandering around. I also took her back to Under the Sea to show the area to BRF and also gauge wait times, if times were short, maybe we'd pay Ariel and friends a visit after lunch. So then we headed back up to BOG for lunch. And good thing, too, because we were rungry!


(photo from our AP Holder preview)


Entrance to the restaurant.


(love the dude who snores)

We checked in for our ADR and then had plenty of time to peruse the menu. I ended up ordering a turkey sandwich and so did BRF. I also ordered the Master's Cupcake because it has the Grey Stuff on top and I had been dying to find out whether the Grey Stuff really is delicious or if the dishes were filthy liars. The turkey sandwich was much-improved from my first encounter during AP Holder Preview, they now garnish it with a dijon sauce that is tart 'n' tasty, the baguette is quite filling and carbtastic, and the pommes are, well, French fries are my kryptonite. Forget chocolate, sweets, what-have-you. Offer me some delicious salty fries with vinegary ketchup and I'll be your bestest friend forever. But I left behind a lot of food because there was dessert this go-around!

I should mention the surroundings, in case you've never been. In BOG you have three options for your dining venue: the main ballroom (where Belle and the Beast danced), the West Wing ("never go in there!!!"), and the Rose Gallery that features paintings from their life together and a life-sized music box. You need to find a place to sit rather quickly because even though it's a quick service restaurant, when you order, you're either given a hockey puck-sized rose or they link your order to your MagicBand. And then your servers find you through the RFID chip in the rose/band. The first time DH and I went, we were so enchanted by the surroundings and looking around, one of the CMs gently scolded us that we needed to sit down or the servers would be chasing us all over the restaurant!

BRF and I quickly found a table near the back windows in the ballroom - easily my favorite place in the whole restaurant because outside the windows, there is falling snow, y'all. Imagineer attention to detail strikes again. And because Christmas decorations were still up all around MK, so too were they at BOG. And lo, it was beautiful.


Christmas tree decorations of Lumiere, Cogsworth, Mrs. Potts, and Chip!!!



And because I know you were waiting on the edge of your seat to find out the verdict on the Grey Stuff, I can indeed vouch for the dishes. They know their shizzit. The cupcake was on the small side (maybe 1.5-inch diameter?), so if you're picturing normal-sized cupcakes this is not that, but that was OK because we were full and really just wanted to try it. But the Grey Stuff? Moussey goodness. Light, airy, complementary to the dark chocolate cake, and the little pearl decorations were like tiny rice crispies with candy coating. It was all good. And really, given the full states of our stomachs, the perfect size.

The dishes don't lie, y'all.

We then got up and decided to walk around since BRF hadn't been there. First stop was the West Wing, because that's where the rose lives. It's dark in the West Wing, so the rose illuminates the area directly around it. And the (clawed) portrait of the prince changes to the Beast periodically. So much great detail, you really feel like you've stepped into the movie. My only lament is that they do not have a library replica. Though if they did, there is a good chance I'd never leave. I need that library in my life, yo.


Falling petals and everything.

After also checking out the Rose Gallery, we left and went to ride Under the Sea. I know that this ride receives a lot of flak for being cheesy and whatnot, but I rather enjoy it. Again, the attention to detail gets me: when you first turn around and are tipped backwards, there is a blast of cool air to mimic that first briskness you feel when you go in the water. Love that. And it's just a fun ride, though I have a soft spot for the "story" rides. BRF also enjoyed it and when we exited, there was a crowd outside where a CM was showing the Steamboat Willie hidden Mickey in the rocks. And so I had an idea: I'd remembered reading that somewhere in the standby queue, there was a callback to the old 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (my favorite) ride. I'd never been able to find it, so I asked this particular CM where it was, and he took the time to walk us through the standby line to see the ode to the Nautilus (also? That drink at Trader Sam's will someday be mine, if I wasn't clear before. ). Success!


How cool is that? I love finding the details while in queue.

After that, we decided we'd had quite enough and figured we should head back to CBR. After a couple gift shop stops, of course. BRF's favorite is Pooh, and apparently there is a scarcity of Pooh merchandise these days. This surprised me because I was a Disney Store CM in the mid-90s and I remember the Pooh crew outselling the Fab Five in almost everything back then. Yes, kids, the market is fickle and cyclical. She was not able to find anything she liked re: Pooh, so we exited MK and headed back to the room. By this time, I was nursing a scratchy throat and was feeling like I was on the verge of something. Dun dun DUN!

Back at the resort, we just chilled in our room, and I pounded roughly 3 or 4 packets of Emergen-C (I swear by that stuff and the coconut pineapple is pretty tasty). Around 5 or so, we headed over to Port Royale from Aruba (I'll spare you the Kokomo this time) to get a light dinner. I opted for the chicken noodle soup, which had a bit of a curry kick to it (not overly so, but noticeable), some veggies and hummus, and some chamomile tea in the hopes that these choices, along with going to bed at 7pm, would knock back whatever illness was threatening itself.


Mmmmm. Tasty.

By now, we felt that we had our nightly routine down-pat with regard to the pool noise and the bathroom tapping, so TV was turned on to a Disney movie channel, sliding doors closed, and I managed to fall asleep shortly after my head hit the pillow. It was actually the best night's sleep I had the entire trip. But would it be enough? Could it be enough? Ooh, ooh, cliffhanger!

Next up: To 13.1...and Beyond!

 

[baxter24]

Following along and enjoying your report so far. Really impressed with your costumes!

 

[ZellyB]

Great updates. Love your costumes for both the 5K and 10K. The 10K especially because I LOVE Up! Kevin and Dug are some of my most favorite characters and that Kevin costume is too fabulous!!! We've never done true costumes. Every time I'm tempted and research and then never find anything I want to do, but I love seeing everyone else. The monorail one is a wonderful idea, but I couldn't stand to try and run with something like that. More power to them though!

That 10K sounds pretty miserable. Running in the rain is really the worst. I hate having wet feet when I'm running. Sorry you didn't get a chance for any character photos, but I think I would have made the same call as you and gotten off the course. Love the remarks about buying ponchos to ensure the skies would clear. We did the same one day coming in during the rain and while we did get rain on briefly once during the day, we mostly just toted them around.

I love the 5K medals that they do and I don't (yet) have a Minnie medal. Planning on that little baby in 2018 though.

So, here is where I confess I never even knew what Trader Sam's was. Should I turn in my WDW lover card now? I've heard it mentioned numerous times on here, but just didn't bother to research where or what it was. Now with your report, I obviously must add it to my must-do list for future trips.

We also really enjoy BOG. We've had dinner there twice and thoroughly enjoy the atmosphere. We actually haven't tried the grey stuff, but now with you AND the very truthful dishes vouching for it, we may need to give it a shot.

Looking forward to the half recap. I'm assuming a certain space ranger might be showing up. Really enjoying the report. You are a great writer!

 

[Mimsy Borogove]

Following along and enjoying your report so far. Really impressed with your costumes!

Thank you so much, on both counts! The Kevin costume was surprisingly easy to run in, as well. I totally could have used that one for the marathon and not been bothered.

Great updates. Love your costumes for both the 5K and 10K. The 10K especially because I LOVE Up! Kevin and Dug are some of my most favorite characters and that Kevin costume is too fabulous!!! We've never done true costumes. Every time I'm tempted and research and then never find anything I want to do, but I love seeing everyone else. The monorail one is a wonderful idea, but I couldn't stand to try and run with something like that. More power to them though!

Thank you! Up has a special place in my heart and Dug cracks me up. I only just started doing true costumes last year and with each race weekend, they get a teensy bit more adventurous. But I don't think I'll ever get to the level of that guy dressed as Kronk carrying a rigged-up litter with Yzma on his back! And agreed about the monorail. At Star Wars Half last year, two ladies were an AT-AT walker and I think that keeping pace single-file like that would drive me nuts.

That 10K sounds pretty miserable. Running in the rain is really the worst. I hate having wet feet when I'm running. Sorry you didn't get a chance for any character photos, but I think I would have made the same call as you and gotten off the course. Love the remarks about buying ponchos to ensure the skies would clear. We did the same one day coming in during the rain and while we did get rain on briefly once during the day, we mostly just toted them around.

The 10K was pretty miserable, but luckily was relegated to just that one day (well, and the mistiness of the 5K, too), so I guess overall we were pretty lucky. I knew the moment I purchased a poncho that the weather would clear. If I had been smarter, I would have purchased one after the 5K!

So, here is where I confess I never even knew what Trader Sam's was. Should I turn in my WDW lover card now? I've heard it mentioned numerous times on here, but just didn't bother to research where or what it was. Now with your report, I obviously must add it to my must-do list for future trips.

No worries - as AP Holders, DH and I have sort of made it our mission to seek out new and different things to try with each visit. We missed out on the original Trader Sam's when we were in DL last January, so I really wanted to see the Florida version. If it wasn't somewhat out of the way, I would go there more often. It's definitely a lot of fun!

Looking forward to the half recap. I'm assuming a certain space ranger might be showing up. Really enjoying the report. You are a great writer!

Aw, thank you so much! I appreciate your kind words. I'm hoping to get part of the half done tonight, but I left my notes at work, so we'll see! Thanks for following along and commenting.

 

[Mimsy Borogove]

Day 4, January 9 - To 13.1...and Beyond!

We again woke up somewhere in the mid-digestive tract of dawn and honestly? This was the best I'd felt the entire trip. I'd gotten a great night's sleep, went to bed ridiculously early to do so and I felt ready to go. The weather seemed like it was going to cooperate and it even seemed somewhat warm outside, versus the previous two days. For the half marathon, BRF had decided long ago to go as Jessie from Toy Story, so I thought I'd go as Buzz Lightyear so we'd at least have one race with complementary costumes. In constructing the costume, I'd originally planned to use fabric paint on a tank for all the Space Ranger doodads, but finally decided in just creating a design in PowerPoint and printing to an iron-on transfer. It still took a lot of time, but I think it came out cleaner than hand-painting.


And originally, I was going to wear the wings and give them to a kid spectator, but with the new costume rules and the likelihood of me accidentally hitting fellow runners, I just left them in the hotel room. But they made for a nice photo op.

We soon made our way to the bus station again (BRF said it was starting to feel like Groundhog Day), where the situation was a lot different than for 5K and 10K race days. There were a lot fewer people for one thing and there were several buses arriving simultaneously. We hopped aboard one and headed towards Epcot once again. This time, because I was wearing a hydration belt, I went through security, but it was pretty fast and easy. The security guard was almost jovial in his demeanor, which also certainly helped. I'd packed the belt with several Gu because the last half marathon I ran, Space Coast Half over Thanksgiving weekend and PRed, I'd had a scary blood sugar episode afterwards even though I made sure to down Gus along the way on that one. After that race, my blood sugar crashed pretty hard. I just remember waiting in line for finisher photo when I suddenly felt weird and decided to find a bathroom. There was, of course, a line, so as I waited, I tried to focus on not passing out when suddenly the colors of the world washed completely out to pastels and everything was sparkly. I had driven myself and BRF to the race (~hour+ drive) and I wondered how we'd get home if I passed out. It was really scary, but luckily, there was a Coke vendor nearby and I grabbed a regular Coke and immediately felt better. So now I make sure to have more Gu than I'll need along.

In the pre-race area, I ate a Bagel Thin with a thin layer of peanut butter spread between as sort of a sandwich and saved a banana for once we arrived in the corrals. For half marathons, if I'm able to visualize the course, I like to break it up into smaller sections to conquer one by one. This was a tip given to me by my running camp coach, and I've seen echoed on these boards. So for this one, my first small section was to get to the Magic Kingdom entrance (~3 miles) and then to Magic Kingdom itself (~5 miles). Then the park, the section on Osceola to Epcot, Epcot itself, and the finish line. This is a trick that works for me, because if I think, "Oh, Mile 1, only 12 to go!" it becomes a very daunting task. That is, this was my line of thought before I trained for a marathon and my perspective changed. At any rate, we soon started the long journey to our corral. For the half marathon, we were in J, and I was pretty happy about that as a middle- to back-of-the-pack runner.

As I said, I was feeling really good this particular morning. I'd had a good night's sleep, a light dinner the night before, and I was excited to tackle a big component of the Dopey Challenge. Though, even after finishing the half marathon, more than half of the Challenge mileage still remained. We had our rD mylars from the 10K to keep warm, but soon we found it wasn't necessary and used them to sit down in the corral. We figured since we'd arrived so early in the corrals that we'd save our legs and then get up once the corral started filling up and/or corrals were starting to get released. This strategy seemed to work pretty well for us.

Soon we were shuffling forward after watching several corral releases with accompanying fireworks. We again ditched our mylars off-course and were soon staged to be released ourselves.



And we were off! As I've already mentioned, I felt great on this particular morning, so we had a much better start than for either the 5K or 10K. BRF was feeling pretty good, too. We soon were ascending an overpass where I saw the telltale white balloon lights that indicated a character stop, so I was curious who was out and about. We soon reached the top and it was stilt walkers from the mid-day street party parade.



And soon we were back on a straightaway on Osceola Parkway. At this point, it became very apparent just how foggy it was, lights up ahead seemed blurry and the humidity was apparent. Luckily, BRF and I had been training in Florida humidity since April and this was cool humidity, which was far better IMHO. Soon, I saw a red blob up ahead and wondered what the heck that was. As we approached closer, we could hear the Small World ditty, and the red blob emerged as a hot-air balloon. I'm not sure if there was supposed to be a character stop there, or if it was just the balloon, but we just kept going.



See how foggy? And then the lights of the Magic Kingdom tollway started to come into view. I don't care how many times you've been to Magic Kingdom, it is completely a different experience than running through it! We pulled over to the side, snapped a few pics and a selfied, and then continued on our way.


So very pretty.

And soon we were running up an off-ramp and I remember that with lights in the distance through the trees, our surroundings looked very surreal. Not long afterwards, we spotted a character stop off to the left: Wreck-It Ralph and Vanellope von Schweetz! We were already on the left side of the road somehow, so we just quickly pulled over and snapped a drive-by photo.


So cute!

And soon we were running in the TTC parking lot, I remember seeing the Rapunzel lot sign and then noticed a character stop on the right-hand side. "This is Halloween" was playing on speakers so I knew it had to be a Nightmare Before Christmas character. I love, love, love that movie and someday hope to get a photo op with Jack Skellington and Sally. But who was out for the half? Why Mr. Oogie-Boogie Man! I didn't stop because the line looked somewhat long, but given what I know now, if I were to do it over again, I would absolutely stop for that because it's the only character stop I regret not doing. But we pulled over quickly, I snapped a photo, attempted to selfie with him in the background (I am not talented at that - at ALL) and we continued onwards.


You'd better pay attention now, cuz I'm the Boogie Man!

We were getting closer and closer to TTC proper now - I could hear the drums of the marching band in the distance as well as the crowds. And what crowds! I have to give mad props to the people who get up so early to watch a bunch of runners come through the TTC and other areas - THANK YOU! You have no idea how invigorating it is to see the signs. Someone had a "To Infinity and Beyond!" sign and they called out for Buzz as I ran by, so I tipped my hat to them and kept going. So freaking cool. We then exited out of TTC and headed towards the Contemporary Resort. But first! We ran under water. Yes. This happened.



If you look above where the Mickey-gloved dude is standing, encouraging all the runners, you might think that is a road. And you would be mistaken, my friend. It's a canal that connects the waterbodies surrounding Magic Kingdom. When I ran the Princess Half in February 2015, there was actually a boat passing by, which couldn't have illustrated the point more perfectly. And the dude yelled, "You're running under water!" Very cool. This was probably one of the first points I remember being a real choke point for Princess Half, but wasn't too bad for this one. We went down the steep incline and then back up and not long after that, Space Mountain came into view. Just like that, we were very nearly in the Magic Kingdom. Which is where I had my one very unpleasant encounter of the whole race weekend.

Next Up: The Happiest Race Course on Earth?

 

[wellesleyprincess]

Loving your review!

 

[ZellyB]

Yay for the start of the half!! The costume is great. I totally get why you chose not to wear the wings, but in the picture they look perfect. I bet with your BFR dressed as Jessie you too looked great running together.

That fog looks crazy, but it does make for some pretty pictures. I always love that section running toward the Magic Kingdom toll booth. Just makes me happy to see it.

They had Ralph and Vanellope out when we ran Goofy last year and I regret not stopping for them. I let the lines deter me and wish I hadn't. Oh well, maybe another year.

I can't believe they had out the Oogie-Boogie Man!!! I've never seen him out there before. They've had the Nightmare set up every time we have run, and I have a shot with Jack and Sally that I LOVE, but, man, how I'd love to get one with the Boogie Man. Maybe they've always rotated him out there and I've just not ever run by when he's been there instead of Jack and Sally.

I love Mickey-hand dude, but I hate that little stretch. It's so crazy crowded going through there and the little down and up makes it even more unpleasant. But, that's the way it goes running Disney races, you just have to put up with the pinch points and go with the flow.

I'm a little concerned about the foreshadowing for the next installment though...

 

[Mimsy Borogove]

Loving your review!

Thank you so much! Love your avatar!

Yay for the start of the half!! The costume is great. I totally get why you chose not to wear the wings, but in the picture they look perfect. I bet with your BFR dressed as Jessie you too looked great running together.

Thank you! Yes, we had quite a few spectators cheering for Jessie and Buzz, which was cool. We even found a lone Woody out on the course, and I really wanted to grab him for a photo op, but he seemed pretty intent on running so I nipped that impulse in the bud.

That fog looks crazy, but it does make for some pretty pictures. I always love that section running toward the Magic Kingdom toll booth. Just makes me happy to see it.

They had Ralph and Vanellope out when we ran Goofy last year and I regret not stopping for them. I let the lines deter me and wish I hadn't. Oh well, maybe another year.

The fog was very dramatic! As you'll see in my next installment. Lovely photos, for sure! And totally agree, seeing the MK toll booth makes me very happy. Hope you get to stop for Ralph and Vanellope on your next race! Are you running PHM? They were out in the same spot for PHM last February.

I can't believe they had out the Oogie-Boogie Man!!! I've never seen him out there before. They've had the Nightmare set up every time we have run, and I have a shot with Jack and Sally that I LOVE, but, man, how I'd love to get one with the Boogie Man. Maybe they've always rotated him out there and I've just not ever run by when he's been there instead of Jack and Sally.

I KNOW!!! I was expecting Jack and Sally, but when we got closer and saw Oogie-Boogie, I nearly lost my you-know-what. It's honestly my biggest regret of the weekend character-wise, but BRF has never seen Nightmare, so she didn't get it. Which means that I suppose I'll have to run the half again next year. Oh, and they were projecting Zero flying among the trees, but there was no way a photo was going to turn out. Seriously, it's the little details like that that get me.

I love Mickey-hand dude, but I hate that little stretch. It's so crazy crowded going through there and the little down and up makes it even more unpleasant. But, that's the way it goes running Disney races, you just have to put up with the pinch points and go with the flow.

I'm a little concerned about the foreshadowing for the next installment though...

Exactly - with Disney races you pretty much have to take things in stride (pun fully intended). There are moments of pure, unadulterated frustration, which are matched by unparalleled bliss. This was honestly the second rD race weekend (PHM last year being the other) where I wasn't going to worry about my pace, I was going to PR in fun. And you know what? I had the best time when I just let go and didn't worry about time and focused on experience.

 

[Mimsy Borogove]

Day 4, January 9 - The Happiest Race Course on Earth?

Hello, explorers! When we last left off, we were about to head into the Magic Kingdom. I unabashedly love running down Main Street, U.S.A. towards the Castle. Last year's PHM race was my first time doing just that in Florida (I actually ran down DL Main Street first - my first time at DL! - for Star Wars last January) and I teared up so hard. I've been an AP Holder for most of my adult life, so I've walked that route literally hundreds of times but there is just something about the early morning jaunt down the street, spectators lined up on the side, and following costumed runners that is just so overwhelming. I'm tearing up now, typing this.

The Christmas decorations also added a certain level of oomph:


Running into MK from backstage. Then you turn the corner, and:


Look how ethereal the Castle looks! The combination of fog and the holiday decorations makes it just so freaking beautiful. [sob!]

It was so gorgeous that if there had been spectators waiting at MK for me, there was no way I would have even noticed them. I was like a moth to flame towards that Castle. One singular purpose. Nothing was going to stop me from getting closer. I would have happily sat on the corner and gazed into that abyss forever.


I mean, just look at it.

We selfied (and I must reiterate at just how bad I am at that particular talent), and eventually and reluctantly moved on towards Tomorrowland. Where we hoped - as in years past - we would see a certain Space Ranger character stop!


The fog also adds to the view into Tomorrowland (P.S. I think I'm one of the 5 people on Earth who actually really liked that movie).



Once we arrived in Tomorrowland, however, we did not find that certain Space Ranger. Instead, we found a Monster! And of course, we got in line because it was short, and why not?


I'm watching you, Wazowski. Always watching. Always.

The line for Mike was probably 3-4 minutes. Not too bad. And we continued onward past Tomorrowland Speedway towards the Mad Tea Party. At this point, we were on the right-hand side of the course, and I knew there would be Wonderland characters around the corner on the left. For PHM, it was the Tweedles and I had stopped for a really great character pic. This time, I noticed in advance that the Queen of Hearts was also out. So starting near the Speedway, we slowly worked our way left in order to not cut people off at the last minute, in order to get to the far left for the character spot. But because we were also going around a corner, this was a bit more difficult. But finally, success!

I pulled over beyond the yellow cone course markers...and promptly was run into by some guy who nearly knocked me over. He proceeded onward about 20 feet, turned around, and snarkily yelled, "Really?!?" Time stood still as I felt everyone watching me for my reaction. I did nothing because honestly, what can you do? I was even too upset to apologize, and if I had $1 for every time I said "sorry" on course in any given race, I wouldn't have to pay rD registration fees! I can still feel his hands grabbing my lower back. OK, I felt awful about this. And while it wasn't 100% my fault, at the time, it felt like I'd really screwed up. It nearly ruined my up-to-now fantastic and cheerful mood. I'd carefully wound my way through literally hundreds of people only to have this guy run smack into me at the destination. AND it was technically not on the course. AND he was rude about it. I understand his frustration, but really? I wasn't trying to impede you, guy. And have a magical day, sir.


AND I ended up not getting a photo with them because I felt so awful at the time.

After that, we made our way past Ulf (OK, second-highest regret re: character stops!).



And then we were nearly to the backside of the Castle. Where traffic promptly came to a full-stop. I wonder if that guy was yelling, "REALLY?!" to the hundreds of people clogging up the Castle roughly 45 seconds after he'd said it to me. I was still feeling rather somber about the whole thing, but then I became determined to not let one person ruin this moment for me. After all, the Arendelle Three (Anna, Elsa, Kristoff) were up above and seemed happy to see us.


Elsa even made it snow. Cool!

In the Castle, we were literally inching forward. During PHM last February, there were photographers in here taking photos of the runners going by, but there was no point now. The Bibbidi-Bobbidi Boutique ladies were along the wall cheering us on as we continued very slowly forward. At the exit, the crowd broke free down the ramp. BRF and I decided to get a photo in front of the Castle since it was lit up so beautifully. Alas, this resulted in no photos of us running down the ramp since the photographers came after that particular point. And this was the one photo I really wanted, me running in front of the lit-up Castle. So reason #2 for running the half again in 2017!

The Castle photo op is short and sweet and we were soon on our way again through Liberty Square and on to Frontierland, where we stopped for a photo with Woody. No time for clever poses, it was simply shoot imaginary guns and on our way.


Reach for the sky!

Then it was on past Splash Mountain towards backstage. There was a Festival of Fantasy parade float with Hook's pirate ship, under which we spotted the good captain, his first mate, several Lost Boys, Wendy, and Peter Pan himself. But we did not stop for a character photo since the line seemed to be very long. Also, and I'm almost ashamed to admit this, I have yet to see the Festival of Fantasy Parade. It's one of those things we keep meaning to do, but by mid-afternoon, we're ready to just relax in our hotel room or get to wherever we're going next. I've even FPed it a couple times to no avail. Someday!

Next Up: The Fog Lifts

 

[disneyhorselover]

Following along, love your report!!! That's too bad about the weather for the 10k...but better to have rain during the 10k than the full, right?! All of your costumes are so cute and creative, but Kevin is my favorite so far...can't wait to see what you have planned for the marathon.
I've run down Main St USA 3x now....once during PHM and twice for Goofy...there is nothing like seeing that lit up castle!
I'm glad you guys were able to get into BOG...what an awesome last second reservation. I remember being fascinated with the snowy window when I ate there (and I'm from new england where we get real snow all the time lol)!

Oh, and, regardless of your warnings to the peanut gallery, you know you'll end up running another marathon...

We ALL say we are one and done the first time.

So true. I swore never again after Jan 2015, and I'm getting the itch to train for another one...even a non-disney marathon!

I've been watching the photos for the Star Wars Half at DL this weekend and so far have seen a lot of costumes that I would have thought would not be allowed, but maybe they're being more lenient since the rules were released without notice? I'm running the Star Wars Half in April and I'm hoping I'll still be able to do my planned costume of Ahsoka Tano. We'll see!

I thought this too...seems like I saw a lot of pictures of things allowed at Star Wars that surprised me...did you think they were stricter at marathon weekend?

 

[emilyindisney]

I love your Kevin costume- your tie on plumage is a great idea!

BoG looks beautiful all done up for Christmas. Glad you enjoyed your food! I agree with you- the dishes totally know what they're talking about with that grey stuff

Love your Buzz costume! Glad you kicked the scratchy throat to the curb! I swear by the emergen-C type stuff too. Really helps ward things off, or helps you miss the worst part of the cold/illness IMO.

You got to see the bottom side of water Hahaha! I've actually never thought about it but as you said, that is in fact not a road (which it totally seems like it is because of the guy standing up there.)

 

[ZellyB]

I so agree that there is nothing like that run down Main Street and seeing the castle with those lights!! Heaven. The fog just makes it all the more beautiful. That shot you showed when you first come out of that backstage area and onto the square made me so happy. I love that moment when you burst through there and see all the spectators cheering and then that turn and seeing the castle for the first time. It is really just indescribable. When I'm running through there it is just all so effortless and fun. If only all the miles were like that.

I'm so sorry that it was spoiled by a hateful runner. The VAST majority of people in those races are so great and so understanding when those little bumps and run-ins occur. I mean, come on, the course is insanely crowded and people are excited and looking at everything and, yes, stopping for characters! Hello? It's a Disney race. It's sort of ridiculous to get upset at anyone, especially given that you were off the course. I actually ran into people at that exact spot in the race during my half run and it was TOTALLY my fault as I tried to make a last ditch cut across and nobody got mad at me. I'm sorry it spoiled that for you and lingered for a time.

We've got a shot with the mime that is awesome. Although he was alone when we saw him without the guards along side. The picture with Woody is perfection though. Love it!!

 

[cavepig]

I liked "Tomorrowland" too, so add me to that small percentage! It was different but kind of quirky and made you think I thought.

Great Outfits! And don't let that guy get to you, some people feel entitled and don't understand when missteps happen, things happen at all races and anyone running should realize that accidents happen. Yeah, that Peter Pan photo op looked amazing but that line looked LONG, if I can't clearly see the end I'm not in it.

 

[Mimsy Borogove]

Following along, love your report!!! That's too bad about the weather for the 10k...but better to have rain during the 10k than the full, right?! All of your costumes are so cute and creative, but Kevin is my favorite so far...can't wait to see what you have planned for the marathon.
I've run down Main St USA 3x now....once during PHM and twice for Goofy...there is nothing like seeing that lit up castle!
I'm glad you guys were able to get into BOG...what an awesome last second reservation. I remember being fascinated with the snowy window when I ate there (and I'm from new england where we get real snow all the time lol)!




So true. I swore never again after Jan 2015, and I'm getting the itch to train for another one...even a non-disney marathon!



I thought this too...seems like I saw a lot of pictures of things allowed at Star Wars that surprised me...did you think they were stricter at marathon weekend?

I didn't hear of any instances marathon weekend that indicated super-strict enforcement. The Mickey Bar guy alone I thought would have not been allowed. There was some hubbub about a firefighter not being allowed to wear her gear, but the rumors are that she was also told ahead of time and wore the gear anyway on race day. I almost wonder if the rules thing was just a big CYA for rD since the parks had recently amped up their rules, or at least started enforcing them more. Thanks for following along and I'm glad Kevin is your favorite - it was mine, too!

I love your Kevin costume- your tie on plumage is a great idea!

BoG looks beautiful all done up for Christmas. Glad you enjoyed your food! I agree with you- the dishes totally know what they're talking about with that grey stuff

Love your Buzz costume! Glad you kicked the scratchy throat to the curb! I swear by the emergen-C type stuff too. Really helps ward things off, or helps you miss the worst part of the cold/illness IMO.

You got to see the bottom side of water Hahaha! I've actually never thought about it but as you said, that is in fact not a road (which it totally seems like it is because of the guy standing up there.)

The dishes are indeed truthful dishes! The bottom side of water, hee hee!

I so agree that there is nothing like that run down Main Street and seeing the castle with those lights!! Heaven. The fog just makes it all the more beautiful. That shot you showed when you first come out of that backstage area and onto the square made me so happy. I love that moment when you burst through there and see all the spectators cheering and then that turn and seeing the castle for the first time. It is really just indescribable. When I'm running through there it is just all so effortless and fun. If only all the miles were like that.

I'm so sorry that it was spoiled by a hateful runner. The VAST majority of people in those races are so great and so understanding when those little bumps and run-ins occur. I mean, come on, the course is insanely crowded and people are excited and looking at everything and, yes, stopping for characters! Hello? It's a Disney race. It's sort of ridiculous to get upset at anyone, especially given that you were off the course. I actually ran into people at that exact spot in the race during my half run and it was TOTALLY my fault as I tried to make a last ditch cut across and nobody got mad at me. I'm sorry it spoiled that for you and lingered for a time.

We've got a shot with the mime that is awesome. Although he was alone when we saw him without the guards along side. The picture with Woody is perfection though. Love it!!

I agree that most runners at rD races know the routine and go with it, I just don't understand the Super Serious Runners who seem to spend all their time either irritated or miserable. Or both! I am also a bit mad at myself for letting the guy get to me, but I did feel badly and at fault, especially after a lot of the conversations we've had on these boards! I remember alternately thinking, "I hope he's not on the DIS" and "I hope he's on the DIS so I can apologize." But eventually I made like Elsa and let it go. It was just one of those wrong-time-wrong-place type things. I'm jealous that you got a photo op with Ulf!!

I liked "Tomorrowland" too, so add me to that small percentage! It was different but kind of quirky and made you think I thought.

Great Outfits! And don't let that guy get to you, some people feel entitled and don't understand when missteps happen, things happen at all races and anyone running should realize that accidents happen. Yeah, that Peter Pan photo op looked amazing but that line looked LONG, if I can't clearly see the end I'm not in it.

Yay for Tomorrowland! I just liked the overall message of optimism, it was a breath of fresh air. And sure, there were lots of moments that could have been done better, but I liked it overall. Thanks about the costumes and for letting me know that it wasn't entirely my fault with the rude guy, I really appreciate it!

 

[Mimsy Borogove]

Day 4, January 9 - The Fog Lifts

As we ran through MK, it seemed like the sun was trying very hard to peek through the clouds and fog and by the time we'd exited the park, it was still overcast outside, but it looked like much of the fog had burned away. And we soon settled into what is probably the most boring stretch of the half marathon course simply because MK is now behind you and Epcot is at the very end. It's also a very congested portion of the course since the runners are smooshed into one lane of traffic.


Just because I couldn't upload this photo on the last entry! We also spotted the WDW Railway train and conductor on our way out of the backstage portion of MK.

I mention the one lane of traffic because many runners were slipping out through the cones marking the course and running in the clear lane of the road. That is, until a police vehicle came cruising down towards us very slowly with lights on and partial siren effects with a train of vehicles behind it. It was this portion of the course that also was home to the Halfway Point! Hooray! And it was particularly special for me because DJ Elliot was out doing his thing, spinning his rhymes, invigorating the crowds.

Who is DJ Elliot? Well, I first knew him as DJ Lobot. I'm a huge Star Wars fan and have been going to the annual Star Wars Weekends at DHS each summer for years. Two years ago (2014), a new fireworks display, Symphony in the Stars which was set to John Williams music and just phenomenal, had been introduced and a Dance Party near the Hat was also in effect from around 6pm until dark. And it was DJ Lobot who was MC over these festivities prior to the fireworks. His mixes have club music, pop songs, Disney songs, Disney sound effects (like the monorail ding), and Star Wars dialogue all together and it is pure awesome. He also posts his mixes on Sound Cloud, so you can listen to them at home. I love playing them when I am doing chores around the house because cleaning the kitchen suddenly turns into Dance Party Kitchen Cleaning. Just search for DJ Elliot on Sound Cloud and he'll pop up. He can also be found deejaying in the new Club Disney at DHS, though the time DH and I went, he was not spinning his magic.


Yay, DJ Elliot!!

And then we were headed towards the Grand Floridian. Here was a character stop for Mary Poppins, Bert, and a random penguin or two. I'd had a photo with them during PHM that was practically perfect in every way, so BRF and I kept going. It was at this point where three ladies showed up to lecture everyone on course etiquette. "I'm not trying to be mean but if you're going to walk, you have to walk single file and on the right." one of them ordered some people around us. Now this is something I've given a lot of thought to, especially since BRF and I were doing run/walk intervals for Dopey. To me, it would seem more problematic to weave in and out while running, and then weave in and out over to the right, potentially cutting off many people rather than at a walk interval to raise your hand, slowly come to a walk after checking behind you to ensure you weren't cutting someone off. The Course Marshal's (unofficial) orders would work in theory if everyone was doing it. But we all know that rD races (heck, pretty much any race) is basically a disorganized mess when you have a field of 20,000 runners. But she and her crew were doing it, so hey, at least they were practicing what they preached!

I'm not sure when or how we lost them, but all I know is that they were only around for maybe 2 miles and then we wondered where they'd gone. I miss them.

And then we noticed Goofy off to the right standing next to the Mickey head golf cart. The line seemed long and as I've mentioned, the Fab Five really aren't my thing so I wasn't too heartbroken. We kept going! Somewhere along here, there was a fake alligator with its mouth open and there were a couple of guys making a huge deal about "OMG AN ALLIGATOR!" and just making really hilarious remarks along the way. Some runners stopped to take a photo with their head in its mouth, which only riled the guys up more. It's stuff like that that can really lift your spirits and make you forget you're running a half marathon. Stitch was also out and about on this stretch with some tiki gods and surf boards. Cute.


One of the less crowded portions of the single-lane.


Stitch!


And of course, there is always Sarge.

Soon we were headed up an overpass, the first of three, if I remember correctly. At this point, we just decided to walk up them because of the incline and also the cant of the road which made my ToT 10-miler experience so painful because of an irritated IT band. Luckily, this time my IT band was behaving itself, but there was no need to potentially irritate it with a full marathon on the menu the following day. Once we arrived in the Epcot parking lot, I realized that I wasn't tired. Like at all. I was still doing this thing full stop and ready to finish strong. Weird. Apparently the way to feel really great during a half marathon is to have trained for a marathon. In the Epcot parking lot, I spotted the Peggy Sue sign (may she rest in peace, <3), so I snapped a photo. I didn't realize who Peggy Sue was until after she'd passed, but she made a huge impression on me during my first half marathon, the Wine & Dine. She was out near Beach Club at an ungodly hour still cheering us slowpokes on and offering Star Bursts. At the time I remember thinking how awesome she was, and then I found out much later what a staple she'd been at rD races.



Not long after that, we were entering Epcot from backstage near Spaceship Earth, after which we'd run towards the WS Lagoon, turn around and head back towards the entrance. In Epcot, I spotted Scrooge McDuck and Genie for character spots but too late to stop ourselves without getting in even more trouble by cutting people off. Didn't want to spark another round of "REALLY?!?" By this time in the race, I was joking about it, so I guess I was better. Hee hee!



I'd told BRF about the gospel choir at Mile 13 because that was one of my very favorite things about PHM: Mile 13, you're almost done, hallelujah!! And even though she'd run the Goofy Challenge 2 years earlier, she didn't remember it. Even though they are awesome.


Who put the glad in gladiator?

We were so close to being done! Once we exited the park and started down the finishers' chute at the place where the path split briefly, Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock's It Takes Two was playing and I surprised myself by rapping the entire first verse as I was running. Clearly I was on a runner's high. A girl running alongside me kind of gave me the side-eye, shrugged her shoulders and started singing along as well. She had a very distinct, "why's this whitest white girl rapping?" expression on her face, and in her defense I was wondering the exact same thing! But it's an old favorite of mine, I was feeling it, and I was just so gosh-darned ecstatic to be finishing, finishing strong, AND having enough energy to bust out some classic rap. Some might call it delirium, I call it happy.

And we were done! We made it through the finish line - where everything came to a dead stop as three ladies holding hands stopped right in front of the photographer for photos. Ugh. Why?


I have my arms raised in triumph, and you can see the three [actually 4 - I didn't see the one in yellow up front at the time] ladies stopped for their close-up, Mr. Demille. So many people almost crashed right into them. And yet, I did NOT say, "REALLY?!?" even though that was the realliest moment of the whole race.

But we moved on, got our shiny Donald medals and then went to find the rD mylars so we'd have one for the pre-marathon time. Um. No mylars. It was still quite chilly (for me, anyway) and I am the type of runner who gets chilled after running a half marathon in 80-degree weather. Instead, they were handing out wet towels. Nope. BRF and I kind of looked at each other, shrugged, and moved on to the water/Powerade and then the rD food box and banana. We did not find any rD mylars and we didn't have checked race bags, so we climbed aboard our resort bus - which was cold enough to literally hang meat - and shivered all the way to Aruba...Jamaica, we really wanted to be somewhere warm!



Next up: Mickey Waffles - 'nuff said.