Marathon Weekend 2026

[The Expert]

Agreed. If you did 23 you can do Dopey. Focus on avoiding injury!

 

[Dopey 2020]

Slightly freaking out. I just completed my 23 mile run last Friday, and the last 5 miles I was battling IT band issues. I pushed it out to get the run done and I know, I should’ve just stopped. I started cold plunging everyday to recover, went on a walk on Sunday about 2 miles, and then tried running yesterday for 3 miles, about 2.5 miles in it flared right back up. I’ve done marathons before, but this will be my first dopey.My plan is to continue to cold plunge daily, leg exercises daily to strengthen the IT band and muscles around it. As well as changing my runs into walks. I still have 1 more run for 26 miles slotted for 12/19, but debating on changing that. I’m not looking for a great time, but just to be able to do all races within the time allotted.

What others said, Galloway is a great get you ready plan but runs over 20 are not needed - unless you’re fast enough to go sub 3 - focus your long runs more on time on feet. 3 hours is great for your longest, whether that gets you 20+ miles or 12 miles doesn’t matter. You’ve gone to 26 before, stay healthy with less miles and you can do it. Injure yourself and chances of finishing or even starting decrease. You’ve got this!

 

[Dopey 2020]

SAFD looking forward to time with family and friends, the meetups, and this time planning on finally making it to Monday’s DATW!

Really looking forward to FL in January as well, really not liking NE winters…

 

[nancipants]

Slightly freaking out. I just completed my 23 mile run last Friday, and the last 5 miles I was battling IT band issues. I pushed it out to get the run done and I know, I should’ve just stopped. I started cold plunging everyday to recover, went on a walk on Sunday about 2 miles, and then tried running yesterday for 3 miles, about 2.5 miles in it flared right back up. I’ve done marathons before, but this will be my first dopey.My plan is to continue to cold plunge daily, leg exercises daily to strengthen the IT band and muscles around it. As well as changing my runs into walks. I still have 1 more run for 26 miles slotted for 12/19, but debating on changing that. I’m not looking for a great time, but just to be able to do all races within the time allotted.

I'm in Galloway Customized but will agree with the others - don't do the 26 miles if you're still hurting. Get to the start line as healthy as possible. You did 23 miles so you will be good!

And during Dopey, definitely walk the 5k and 10k, and as much of the half as you can while still beating the balloon ladies.

 

[dobball23]

3) We are trying a new resort - Old Key West, 2 BR Villa. Really looking forward to the extra space. Plus then I am clicking off one more DVC resort; got to get to all of them eventually!

I'm staying at OKW, too! Only a studio. Stayed there in 2024 as well and it worked well for us.