Marathon Weekend 2026

[sandam1]

For the 10K three members of my group went out of the last corral. Starting the race only 2 minutes in front of the balloon ladies. Yesterday we were joking around about next year - they did succeed in finishing but with the balloon ladies on their heals the entire time. So we were joking, “you conquered the 10k, I guess that leaves the Half next”. The response really made me think. In short they finished, but it was awful, stressful and anxiety provoking for 6.2 miles. They were proud to finish and that feels good but did not enjoy the process. Certainly not enough to want to do more. It was not just the pain of pushing themselves but the anxiety of having no space to slow down or even take in the moment.

I had a similar feeling during my first Dopey. During the races - particularly the marathon - I felt like I was running from the balloon ladies the whole time. The fact that I DNF'd the marathon the previous year (and finished the half with the balloon ladies) probably didn't help my mindset. My second Dopey was motivated by the goal to NOT feel that way and to know that I was fast enough and strong enough to run without fear.

To those members of your group, I would highly encourage them to NOT move up to the half, but to work on getting to the point where they can do a comfortable 10K first.

 

[accm]

I also just got the survey. First time ever. So I'm happy I'll get to share my thoughts. I just hope the fact that I'll say I'm definitely returning doesn't negate everything I have to say...

Definitely gave us a new perspective and appreciation for what people running from the later corrals go through during the race. I’m not sure I’d do well running and having to look over my shoulder all the time.

I mentioned before, but I ran with my friend from G for the first time. It also gave me a whole new perspective and appreciation for anyone who starts at the back, and has around a 16mm pace. I didn't let my friend look back, and instead took that worry on myself. She didn't get to stop for characters on the 10k or half, and the one bathroom break we took during the half really cut into our lead. Coming out of Epcot during the half with the balloon ladies was so crowded, we had no choice but to go with the flow of everyone else and get passed by them.

Now trying to figure out when I can get back and do another one, (although I know any future ones will probably not hit the same way as the first one), unfortunately 2028 is probably the next real chance I get.

I can say that even though this was my first Dopey, running down Main Street still makes me tear up. Same with coming out of HS and running through Epcot for the full.

 

[accm]

I definitely did not mince words about my expo experience. I also checked off that lighting and construction was an issue, even though I didn't personally experience it since we ran by the worst areas after it was already light out.

I hope the fact I said I'm definitely running again in the next 2 years doesn't make them blow off everything I said...

 

[dobball23]

@FFigawi I wanted to follow up and see which of your two 5K times did Disney include in the Dopey results?