Official 2011 Princess Half Marathon Thread - Link to new thread Post 3703!

[ljcrochet]

Thank you for your advice. You are right, being from a different time zone from the race makes it that much scarier to me. 5am I could handle if I absolutely had too, but 4am... ugh!

You will be fine. I will make sure you are up.

 

[HockeyKat]

Jenn, when I did the Princess, I had never done an early morning run. I get up at 9AM for *work*. I didn't really seem to have a problem, though, with the excitement of the race and all. In fact, I woke up before the alarm.

 

[jenn-]

You will be fine. I will make sure you are up.

So the deal is, you drag my butt out of bed, and I drag you across the finish line, right? That's what running partners are for, right?

 

[Rupert B Puppenstein]

The bolded part is what makes me think, why even try to go to bed if I'm not going to sleep anyways? I should just stay up all night and make sure I get enough food in me. Maybe I should try forcing myself to nap on Saturday (and by forcing I mean ingesting my nice sleeping med), and just get up at Midnight to make sure I can eat. I have a few months to figure this all out. I hope to hit a half marathon in November that won't be quite as early in the morning, so maybe I can start to learn from that one. I go to Disney to eat, so food is a big issue for me. Knowing when and where I am going to eat makes me a very happy camper. Make me worried about a meal and long sleepless nights can ensue.

You definitely don't want to stay up all night...you need at least a few hours of sleep even if they aren't the best quality. I think I got about three, maybe four hours? I was so mad because we got stuck in traffic turning into DTD to our hotel because I needed Bananas from the Wal-Mart Supercenter. So, I didn't get to eat dinner early like I planned and really very few things went as scheduled that night. I stayed up so much later than I think I should have. But, I was so anxious. It was my first race ever, it was cold, I was nervous, and had too much on my mind. When the morning came around and it was time to get up, eat and drive to Epcot, everything went almost too smoothly! But, it was a great learning experience and I will take those lessons with me to Disneyland in a couple weeks. I better be able to move afterwards because I have a reservation at the Blue Bayou at 12:30 p.m. So, really my training at the end is working on that goal. I didn't move around nearly as much as I should have (we got stuck in the middle by the Partners Statue with one of the parades and couldn't cross the street) and just standing there watching the parade for the five minutes or so turned me into the tin man! So, I have been taking Coach Charles advice and doing hill training with my shorter runs and keeping things flat for my longer runs and I haven't had any issues (other than some slight soreness that goes away in a day).

I think that the Princess next year with all of you should be great! I didn't get to meet anyone from the thread last year and hope to see everyone this time around. I am sure everyone will do great.

As far as estimating time on the registration. I went for 3:30 - I finished in 3:13 - not so admirable and I want to get under the 3 hour line for the Disneyland Half. Not exactly an admirable time, but it is for me!
The great news is that I can eat a Monte Cristo and even though it is so full of calories, I would have already burned them by the time I get to the table!

 

[HockeyKat]

I think that the Princess next year with all of you should be great! I didn't get to meet anyone from the thread last year and hope to see everyone this time around. I am sure everyone will do great.

As far as estimating time on the registration. I went for 3:30 - I finished in 3:13 - not so admirable and I want to get under the 3 hour line for the Disneyland Half. Not exactly an admirable time, but it is for me!
The great news is that I can eat a Monte Cristo and even though it is so full of calories, I would have already burned them by the time I get to the table!

I didn't get to meet anyone from the boards either, except for those I was planning on doing the Princess with in the first place, all 8 that I had met through WISH. 4 I had met before, and 4 I had not. 6 of us stayed together in a BWV 2-bedroom and had an absolute blast!

This year I would like to take the time to meet as many as I can!

I went for 3:30 last year too, and finished in 3:11. I bet you will finish DL under 3, as I finished Chicago RnR at 2:49.

Might not be admirable for some, but it is for me too, and I will be cheering you all the way!

 

[Lisacope]

We did this last year for the Royal Family 5K. We were at Bay Lake Tower and we drove over the Poly, told the guard what we were doing, they gave us GREAT parking and we hopped the bus without an issue. For the Princess, we'll be at AKL so I can take the bus and DH can use the car to come watch me.

Thanks for the info - what time should I plan to be at the poly to get the bus?

 

[saysay]

Looking for any suggestions on cheaper options of places to stay, knowing I will be driving or taking a cab to the start of the race. Only been to WDW 1 time so just looking for advice. If I can talk hubs into it, would stay at one of the host resorts, but just in case, looking at good options.

Also, noticed on the Travel site from the web page it says "BOOK NOW! Specially Priced Theme Park Tickets and Resorts". Anyone know about special priced tickets?

THANKS!

 

[Trudes]

You definitely don't want to stay up all night...you need at least a few hours of sleep even if they aren't the best quality. So, I have been taking Coach Charles advice and doing hill training with my shorter runs and keeping things flat for my longer runs and I haven't had any issues (other than some slight soreness that goes away in a day).
around. I am sure everyone will do great.

As far as estimating time on the registration. I went for 3:30 - I finished in 3:13 - not so admirable and I want to get under the 3 hour line for the Disneyland Half. Not exactly an admirable time, but it is for me!

I will be excited, but I hope for 4-5 hours sleep.

I can't remember what I put for my estimated time on my registration. I may have put 3 hours, but I am not sure. I am trying not to think about a time goal, but I am....I'd love to do it in 2:30, but doubt I can. With running my first HM in October, I will have a much better idea about what a reasonable time is.

Yesterday I ran 6 miles yesterday in 67 minutes, but I don't know that I can keep that pace for 13.1 miles.

I too, have taken Coach Charles advice and have been running hills during the week and running flat runs for my long run on the weekend. I have to say, my legs are feeling stronger and my time has been improving since having added hills.

Shelby, there's nothing wrong with your time. Good job!

 

[Lisacope]

It is the old Wide World of Sports complex. just south of Pop Century on Victory way (south side of Osceola). From Pop mayb 7-10 and from Contemp up to $15.

ADDED - Should add the All Start Resorts are across World Drive from the ESPN complex - about the same fare as Pop.

Can you take the resort bus from one of the parks to the All Star Resorts and walk to the ESPN complex to attend the Expo or do you have to take a taxi?

BTW - I think it is really cool that you are dispensing wisdom and encouragement to the runners on this thread - I am an experienced marathoner (I placed 2nd in my age group last weekend at Haulin Aspen and I am qualified for Boston in 2011) and I think that everything you have said is right on!

 

[Trudes]

I went for 3:30 last year too, and finished in 3:11. I bet you will finish DL under 3, as I finished Chicago RnR at 2:49.

Might not be admirable for some, but it is for me too, and I will be cheering you all the way!

Wow, you shaved 20 minutes off your time, I say that's admirable. Good job. As I ran my 6 miles yesterday, I couldn't help but think that it wasn't even half the distance I need to do to complete the HM. 13.1 miles is a long ways, whether it's walking or running, completing it is admirable.

 

[Rupert B Puppenstein]

Looking for any suggestions on cheaper options of places to stay, knowing I will be driving or taking a cab to the start of the race. Only been to WDW 1 time so just looking for advice. If I can talk hubs into it, would stay at one of the host resorts, but just in case, looking at good options.

Also, noticed on the Travel site from the web page it says "BOOK NOW! Specially Priced Theme Park Tickets and Resorts". Anyone know about special priced tickets?

THANKS!

The specially priced tickets are about $20 cheaper than buying at the park. I don't know if you can save more than that. I get to share hotel discounts as I work for IHG, if you click my signature, you can check out my discount which anyone is free to use. The rate usually isn't available until 90 days out and is good for any IHG property. If you have any questions about a property, just let me know. The rates are non-refundable so make sure your plans are set before traveling. I have stayed at the Holiday Inn Downtown Disney and the Holiday Inn Express and Suites at Lake Buena Vista and loved them both.

 

[cewait]

Can you take the resort bus from one of the parks to the All Star Resorts and walk to the ESPN complex to attend the Expo or do you have to take a taxi?

..............

Looking for any suggestions on cheaper options of places to stay, knowing I will be driving or taking a cab to the start of the race. Only been to WDW 1 time so just looking for advice. If I can talk hubs into it, would stay at one of the host resorts, but just in case, looking at good options.

Also, noticed on the Travel site from the web page it says "BOOK NOW! Specially Priced Theme Park Tickets and Resorts". Anyone know about special priced tickets?

THANKS!

The All-Stars resorts are an 'official' race resort. There is busing to the expo and race. I am betting that in the next couple months the winter season discounts will be announced. A good rule of thumb to follow for a jan or feb event is to lock in your resort today then watch for discounts. Once announced call and then re-reserve to get the cheaper rates. I would imagine that the discounted rates would fall to $90 or less. Use DME and on-site transportation is can be a net rate of less than $55 if you can sae $35/day on a car.

I too have seen the 'special' priced tix on these sites. Glad to see Shelby's explanation.


Oh, and thanks your comments are apporeciated

 

[dumbo_buddy]

i definitely want to stay at a host resort. while i would like to save money, i think the little extra for the all stars or POR would be worth it for the busing to the race. i will already have enough jitters that i want to know that i won't have to worry about getting there, esp since it sounds like we need to get there so early!!

disney just announced some great deals and one of them is free dining for the race. carbo-load at via napoli anyone!?!? i wonder if i will have any princess half marathoners asking me for quotes? it'll be fun to see who i'll be running with! (i'm a disney TA)

the day before race day, what kind of activity do you plan on doing? i'm used to hitting the parks early and walking around until closing but i don't want to exhaust myself! what do you all do? maybe if it's warm enough i should just hang by the pool? will you go out to eat? make your own food?

 

[dumbo_buddy]

gear - what does everyone run in? i don't want to go out and spend tons of money on gear since i'm such a beginner but, ehem, my thighs are chafing so badly! (i know, tmi). my marathoner friend said that i need better shorts as i'm just running in baggy mesh shorts. she even mentioned not running on cotton underwear!

is that necessary for a beginner? i'm wearing basically what i'd go play basketball in. i don't "look" like a runner.

what's your running uniform??

 

[joan4mickey]

dumbo buddy I wear running skirts with built in compression shorts. At the race you will see everything from full princess costumes to what looks to me like bra and panties. You will even see guys dressed as princesses-I think it would be cool to see guys dress as princes. Many do recommend no cotton, but it doesn't seen to bother me. I am "small" on the top and buy cheap walmart bras (3 for $10) and just wear my everyday panties which are cotton and nylon.
You could get some compression shorts to wear under your running short to see how that works. Many wear just compression shorts, but to me it's like just wearing my undies out.

 

[Rupert B Puppenstein]

i definitely want to stay at a host resort. while i would like to save money, i think the little extra for the all stars or POR would be worth it for the busing to the race. i will already have enough jitters that i want to know that i won't have to worry about getting there, esp since it sounds like we need to get there so early!!

disney just announced some great deals and one of them is free dining for the race. carbo-load at via napoli anyone!?!? i wonder if i will have any princess half marathoners asking me for quotes? it'll be fun to see who i'll be running with! (i'm a disney TA)

the day before race day, what kind of activity do you plan on doing? i'm used to hitting the parks early and walking around until closing but i don't want to exhaust myself! what do you all do? maybe if it's warm enough i should just hang by the pool? will you go out to eat? make your own food?

I found staying off property to be just fine. I had my chauffer drive me there since he won't run with me. We beat all the buses even after going past the turn-off. No, we weren't driving crazy either! I didn't get my special rate at the Holiday Inn because I didn't know the GM, but now I do. So, I would anticipate saving a ton more money which will be nice because I want to cry about the money I am spending for the Disneyland Half! For the race this year, I took it easy the day before. I didn't want to be on my feet all day and worried about that. So, we went to DisneyQuest and played for a bit, Downtown Disney, and saw Alice in Wonderland. It put my mind at ease to just take it easy. It was far too cold to enjoy the pool IMO. I ordered room service for dinner and didn't worry about going to any of the organized events. It took the pressure off to just keep to myself. Not sure what the stategy will be for next year but I am sure I won't be as careful.

gear - what does everyone run in? i don't want to go out and spend tons of money on gear since i'm such a beginner but, ehem, my thighs are chafing so badly! (i know, tmi). my marathoner friend said that i need better shorts as i'm just running in baggy mesh shorts. she even mentioned not running on cotton underwear!

is that necessary for a beginner? i'm wearing basically what i'd go play basketball in. i don't "look" like a runner.

what's your running uniform??

I only wear moisture wicking running material - and only Nike because to me it is the best! I like wearing a long running tank top (with the pockets in the back for Gu and my iPhone and it has the little loop to hold your earphone cord. For the Princess, I wore running Capri's instead of the running skirt because it was so cold and didn't regret that decision one bit! Most of the time at the gym, I wear the running tank top (not necessarily the one with pockets as I watch TV on the treadmill, running capris or running pants. I find that I still stay pretty cool and don't have to worry about chafing or using a lot of the anti-chafing stuff. I would stay away from cotton as much as you can - it doesn't wick moisture, causes you to chafe and doesn't keep you cool. Go to the gym and look at all the people exercising. Do you want to be the yucky person with the soaking cotton shirt or the person in the running gear that may be sweating but doesn't look like they jumped in a pool?

Running gear changes quite frequently so I bet you can find some great deals at your local sporting goods store. That is what I did initially - I stuck to the clearance racks and even Nike.com has some great sales sometimes. The stores never do. Running gear lasts a really long time as long as you take care of it so it isn't like you will have to buy a ton of it. It is worth the investment IMO.

 

[cewait]

dumbo_buddy - Well definitely not female but I can offer some assistance. You really need moisture wicking material. Avoid cotton. I find that any clothing sporting a running shoe logo works well for clothing. These include Nike, Brooks, UnderArmour, etc. I tend to avoid a couple brands found in discount sporting goods stores but YMMV. As a new runner make sure to try on the clothing. Sizing can vary from manufacturer... plus there are differing fits tailored into clothing - then the dreaded Euro sizes that pop up in some lines of clothing.

For the thighs a pair of compression pants will help prevent the chaffing. You can wear something over them (non-cotton) if needed. A substance called Runner's Lube (similar to Vasoline but does not stain) applied to areas of chaffing works wonders. You may find that you also get a little 'chub rub' where the arm meets the seam in the shirt/top as miles increase. Runner's Lube will work there.

 

[dumbo_buddy]

great info! thank you! i'm off to check out some running gear sales

you're right - i don't want to look like that crazy person with the soaking wet t-shirt (oh wait, i already look like that!!).

i'm going to check out some running capris - though my butt is pretty big so i might scare people while i'm running!

 

[dumbo_buddy]

dumbo_buddy - Well definitely not female but I can offer some assistance. You really need moisture wicking material. Avoid cotton. I find that any clothing sporting a running shoe logo works well for clothing. These include Nike, Brooks, UnderArmour, etc. I tend to avoid a couple brands found in discount sporting goods stores but YMMV. As a new runner make sure to try on the clothing. Sizing can vary from manufacturer... plus there are differing fits tailored into clothing - then the dreaded Euro sizes that pop up in some lines of clothing.

For the thighs a pair of compression pants will help prevent the chaffing. You can wear something over them (non-cotton) if needed. A substance called Runner's Lube (similar to Vasoline but does not stain) applied to areas of chaffing works wonders. You may find that you also get a little 'chub rub' where the arm meets the seam in the shirt/top as miles increase. Runner's Lube will work there.

runner's lube - oh god that just sounds embarrassing! i'll check it out. i need to get some non-cotton clothing. it's all i own! luckily right now i'm not at the super high miles yet so it's not too bad. but once i hit higher miles i'll need to definitely wear better gear.

for those who have talked about the chilly weather on race day, what do you do for gear? i'd imagine once you start running it's not cold - do you just toss your outerwear? i'd hate to just throw something out!

 

[MamaCrush]

OK – On Soapbox

I think my record stands on its own merit and frankly I don't care for the personal attack. This is a forum where we all attempt to support one another and negativity has no room. I think if one reads my posts carefully they can distinguish between what I offer as advice to that runner, what I do personally and what I would not do. When in doubt I will couch advice as such, specifically when folks quickly jump to medical judgments on injuries folks describe on the forum. Sorry, I find your post rude. If you have issue with a piece of advice then please phrase it in a constructive manner.

I am willing to compare experience - just for the record, I have successfully coached well over 500 runners through a marathon. I do not even know how many half marathons as I did not count the first few years. I have helped many folks get off the couch and through a 5k. I have also coached several hundred riders through long rides including rides like the MS 150 (which in Texas is 180 miles), as well as several Colorado rides. Finally I have coached nearly 100 folks through triathlons ranging from sprints to one triathlete who won a spot to Kona. Finally, I am a certified coach and certified trainer and am recognized through several national organizations.

Off Soapbox…

I humbly apologize to others on the rest of this thread and further into the forum. I really try not to be negative and often am supportive of alternaive opinion. I will attempt to correct/offer alternatives/offer what experience, research and science demonstrate as effective when I read things that are not exactly correct in my world. I will attempt to couch things in a way to keep you as safe and injury free as possible given the distance we all must work through.

But we all must continue to realize that training for a race is an experiment --- an experiment of one. I guarantee that what works for the runner next to you may not work for you. Frankly it gets even better and what worked last year may not work this year.

Thanks for listening.

Coach, I for one humbly thank you for all the free advice you so willingly and often give. You have benefited me tremendously in my baby steps to becomeing a runner.