Official 2012 Wine and Dine ½ Marathon Thread

[Figment1990]

I'm studying the course map in detail and comparing the in-park parts to Google Maps. (Yes, I'm slightly obsessive about "being prepared.")

It looks like we will be running down New York Street in DHS. So.... that means we might get to run through the Osborne Lights? Will they be turned on? I know this is the first year this particular race is this late in the year, but just in case there is some all-knowing DISer out there, I thought I'd ask. Any opinions?

 

[jeanigor]

I'm studying the course map in detail and comparing the in-park parts to Google Maps. (Yes, I'm slightly obsessive about "being prepared.")

It looks like we will be running down New York Street in DHS. So.... that means we might get to run through the Osborne Lights? Will they be turned on? I know this is the first year this particular race is this late in the year, but just in case there is some all-knowing DISer out there, I thought I'd ask. Any opinions?

I seem to remember them being illuminated in the past. And with the race being later in the year, closer to the holidays, it would not surprise me.

 

[jeanigor]

The race is now 86% full as of today.

 

[Rose&Mike]

One section of lights has been up for the last two years (Osbourne). It would be cool if they turned on more since it is later.

I am looking forward to running through the costuming tunnel. It has been really hot in that tunnel, and I am hoping it will be a little cooler and I can look around a little more.

Kyle--they do sweep, but I don't know any more than to say that they do. If you search the threads from the last two years you might get a better idea. It is a long time until November and you still have a lot of time to train. I started training for the w&d in 2010 in May. I had been working out a lot (60+ minutes on the elliptical regularly) but did not start running until May. So that gave me ~5 months. I actually ran a "practice" half at a local race in the beginning of September--so that would be 4 months to train. You have ~4 months left. I think it is doable especially if you have a plan. Long distance running is just one of those things you can't shortcut, but with a good plan, you shouldn't have to worry too much about being swept.

 

[becky11]

One section of lights has been up for the last two years (Osbourne). It would be cool if they turned on more since it is later.

One of the things I've loved about my birthday (11/11) is I can usually get to the Food & Wine Festival, MVMCP, and see the Osborne Lights come on - all on or around my birthday.

I would venture a guess that ALL the lights will be on for our race through there, which will be VERY awesome!

 

[newwdwrunner]

Are there any resources or suggestions for runners going it alone? I'll have my family there to cheer me on but I'm nervous about logistics and just making it through without someone running with me. I've never done this much distance, and the only close distance I did with a friend. I'm hoping there will be friendly Disney fans to help me!

 

[KSBelle77]

Are there any resources or suggestions for runners going it alone? I'll have my family there to cheer me on but I'm nervous about logistics and just making it through without someone running with me. I've never done this much distance, and the only close distance I did with a friend. I'm hoping there will be friendly Disney fans to help me!

I am running with my husband only he will be way ahead if me. The last Disney 1/2 marathon we did was princess and everyone was so wonderful!!! We were all cheating each other on as we ran! We were calling out miles left and encouraging each other! Runners are a strange bread we are competitive but we still support each other the entire way! Disney runs are the best especially if you are running by yourself (though it will not feel like it)!!!

 

[Ebeezy]

Are there any resources or suggestions for runners going it alone? I'll have my family there to cheer me on but I'm nervous about logistics and just making it through without someone running with me. I've never done this much distance, and the only close distance I did with a friend. I'm hoping there will be friendly Disney fans to help me!

I am running solo as well (with no support). So you most definitely will not be the only solo runner.. I feel that when you are surrounded by all the other runners, you won't feel so alone.. I have did all my HMs (except one) alone and it really is not that bad. You will probably be so concerned about just finishing that you will forget you are doing it solo. Just think you will still have family there to support you, which probably matters the most.

 

[KSBelle77]

Tinker bell is 99% full if anyone was interested in running but hadn't signed up yet

 

[becky11]

I've done 5 races by myself and never once did I feel 'alone'. It's a lot of fun and you never really notice that you're by yourself. And I've made some friends along the way. Just wait until we get closer to race time - there will be meet-ups announced and you'll get to meet some of your fellow DISers who will be racing.

Don't worry about it - just have fun!!

 

[froggygrrrl]

Are there any resources or suggestions for runners going it alone? I'll have my family there to cheer me on but I'm nervous about logistics and just making it through without someone running with me. I've never done this much distance, and the only close distance I did with a friend. I'm hoping there will be friendly Disney fans to help me!

You'll be fine, I promise! I've run alone in almost every race I've done and I haven't regretted it at all. My first race was the first Wine & Dine, so I know where you're coming from. Once you start running, it will never even cross your mind that you are running "alone". The only time I felt like time was passing slowly was the 2 hours I sat at WWoS before lining up in the corral. This year I plan to bring a magazine! Between focusing on your own race and taking in all of the sights around you, you'll definitely be able to make it through without someone running with you. Besides, as the miles go on, and everyone settles into their pace, chances are that you will end up with someone practically running with you! Or maybe not with you, but near you!

 

[BelleProfHP]

I'm also running solo. At this point, I don't even have family or friends waiting at the end. I'm a teacher, hence most of my friends are teachers, so it is too much to take the time off to just wait to cheer someone on as they roll in after midnight.

Maybe as we get closer, some of us solo runners can compare our desired paces. That way, we could possibly form partnerships to keep each other going.

 

[MightyDuck001]

I ran my first half alone and it's actually a lot better than a 5k! You have 13.1 miles where you get to talk with the people around you, cheer them on... The only part that's boring is waiting for the race to start, but once you get going it'll be great.

 

[jeanigor]

Are there any resources or suggestions for runners going it alone? I'll have my family there to cheer me on but I'm nervous about logistics and just making it through without someone running with me. I've never done this much distance, and the only close distance I did with a friend. I'm hoping there will be friendly Disney fans to help me!

I've most races alone. While daunting in the beginning, after the first ½ mile or so, you'll be fine. There are so many people that you'll never be "alone". You're just surrounded by thousands of fellow crazy Disney/running people you haven't met yet.

I travel solo most of the time. Last year's Disneyland Half was a solo trip and the first time I'd been to Disneyland in nearly 20 years. I was intimidated at first, but I sucked it up, swallowed my fears, put a smile on and started chatting with other runners and cast members. Even though my time tanked and a lot of the course I didn't care for, I would repeat the entire experience again.

Both Wine & Dine Half Marathons I have had friends cheer me on (near the Boardwalk DVC wing and Beach Club DVC building). Let me tell you it made all the difference in the world having a couple hugs to fuel me that last mile or so. This year's race, with the change of date, I will be going solo and have no friends to hug around mile 12. But on the plus side, two of them agreed to do the Tower of Terror 10 miler with me, and since we are close in pace, we will have a grand time.

 

[jeanigor]

With Disney's "Fall Free Dining" promo (now open to all guests, contact your travel agent if you have questions) including the weekend of the half, I don't suspect the registration to be open much longer. And the cost of registration jumps up next Wednesday if it is still open.

If you have already booked a package, it may be advantageous to check with your travel agent (or call central reservations yourself if you booked that way) to see if the promo would benefit you.

 

[KSBelle77]

With Disney's "Fall Free Dining" promo (now open to all guests, contact your travel agent if you have questions) including the weekend of the half, I don't suspect the registration to be open much longer. And the cost of registration jumps up next Wednesday if it is still open.

If you have already booked a package, it may be advantageous to check with your travel agent (or call central reservations yourself if you booked that way) to see if the promo would benefit you.

I tried to do the free dining. They said basically that you have to cancel you sports package, if you booked through half marathon site and rebook through the main reservation number.

 

[pmama]

Booked free dining and upgraded to Caribbean Beach Resort. Wasn't staying at a host resort or mod before!

 

[pmama]

Well, I finally swallowed my pride and paid the $197 for my hubby and two kiddos to come to the Finish Line Party. It is crazy expensive and I did not want to pay it. But, I really wanted them to be part of it, not just standing outside the finish. I figure we've paid the equivalent for MVMCP, so hoping this will live up to the ridiculous price. Also, I don't plan on doing tons of RunDisney events. This race just happened to line up with when we were planning on going. I may never do another so might as well make the most of this one.

Also, we had an $150 reward visa card from our bank. I'd been planning to use it for my own race but instead decided to put it toward the party tickets. Only $47 out of pocket for party is a little more justifiable in my head. Especially since we'll get $30 back in gift cards for food!

Overall, I'm very happy they will be attending the party and celebrating with me. So think I made the right decision.

 

[pmama]

Also I didn't see if anyone posted a link to Galloway's training guide for W&D.

http://espnwwos.disney.go.com/event...index?page=disney-wine-and-dine-half-marathon

Think I'm going to do the Time Improvement Guide. I like the idea of long runs every other week to avoid burn out. I do not plan on run/walk though. I like to Just Run!

 

[KSBelle77]

I going to puchase my airline tickets on Saturday for my flight. Found the PERFECT flight for the run!!! Arrive at 11:25 on the 8th (nonstop flight) and get home at 7pm on ther 12th (nonstop flight) and all for the sum total price of $300.00 each!!!! OH did I mention that BAGS FLY FREE!!!!