Official 2013 Disney Princess Half Marathon Thread - Take 2

[StarGirl11]

Transportations is still provided. I think spring baseball may have something to do with the change of venue. CS is a conference resort so they have a large venue.
Sad for those that haven't been to ESPN, but I think it may be a nice change.

Ah okay. Didn't realize CS was a conferences resort. Never stayed there, Mom drove through there (and several other resorts) during our Jan 2012 trip to just to see what they all looked like but we didn't go that far into it.

As long as I don't get stuck in line behind another tour group in a non-air conditioned tent I'm good (that happened last year, not fun).

 

[Cripey]

NOOOOO! A co-worker that sits maybe 5 feet from me just called to say her doctor confirmed she has the flu We've Lysol'd her entire desk area!!! I got my flu shot a while ago, but according to a gazillion other people it doesn't seem to matter this year. I REALLY hope I don't get sick!

 

[ashysmashy]

Has anybody done the breakfast after Princess? Is it good? Is it worth it? Do you show them an armband? How do you get in after the race? (Not the race retreat, just the breakfast that's for sale.) Thank you.

 

[Cripey]

Has anybody done the breakfast after Princess? Is it good? Is it worth it? Do you show them an armband? How do you get in after the race? (Not the race retreat, just the breakfast that's for sale.) Thank you.

I believe the breakfast that they are selling tickets to is on saturday after the 5k, not after the Princess on sunday. Not sure if that's what you meant, but just wanted to point out. I have never attended the breakfast myself.

 

[ashysmashy]

I believe the breakfast that they are selling tickets to is on saturday after the 5k, not after the Princess on sunday. Not sure if that's what you meant, but just wanted to point out. I have never attended the breakfast myself.

Ahhhhh, I see. Kinda confusing when it's says Disney's Half Marathon Breakfast Features.....I thought maybe it was after both. The 5K and the Half. Thank you.

 

[mamacate]

Oh, girl - you missed the warmth by a few days! I teach preschool in Atl and we couldn't even take the kids outside today because of the wind chill!

Lol it was 50F!!! All these people were wearing parkas this afternoon and I was loving it in my capris and light long sleeved shirt. It's all perspective. It's not toasty, but I'd rather be here than in 5F weather at home. The water fountains at the park even worked! They turn ours off around Columbus Day!

Cate

 

[uccats97]

oh man, that's a tough spot to be in. I think for me it would come down to whether I just "wanted" the job or "needed" the job. If I really needed it financially or as an important step in furthering a future career goal, then I'd have to chalk it up to making a sacrifice and doing what needed to be done for my finances/future. If I just wanted the job for something to keep me busy, something fun to do, etc., then I'd definitely examine whether or not it was worth it to work for a company that was so hard-nosed and not willing to give any leeway to it's employees on a case-by-case basis. What a crummy decision to have to make...sorry.

uccats97, I know it is disappointing, but I wouldn't expect vacation time/time off so soon after starting a new job... Tough decision, but like Cripey said, depends on how badly you need the job.

Thanks for your thoughts. I am holding out that they keep their word and "remember" me when I get back. I guess the reason I was so shocked was because I would expect a company to be up front with mandatory days. I did all I could do on my end by being up front and giving them notice at the first available opportunity to do so. I am fortunate enough to be in a situation where I do not have to work. I want this job to pay for more Disney trips! If it is meant to be it will happen...after I come home from my first Princess and first half marathon!

 

[JoyaDelMar]

Thanks for your thoughts. I am holding out that they keep their word and "remember" me when I get back. I guess the reason I was so shocked was because I would expect a company to be up front with mandatory days. I did all I could do on my end by being up front and giving them notice at the first available opportunity to do so. I am fortunate enough to be in a situation where I do not have to work. I want this job to pay for more Disney trips! If it is meant to be it will happen...after I come home from my first Princess and first half marathon!

I'm glad to hear that you're being positive and hope it all works out for you. I thought it was so funny that you posted this because it's actually my greatest fear right now. I'm applying for what could be my dream job and have been daydreaming of what an awesome/awful situation would occur should things work out.

At the end of the day, I'm a big believer in life working itself out for the best and the need for individuals to enjoy and prioritize their life goals even if it means work sometimes comes second. The Princess is a life goal for me and I can't wait to tackle it with so many other great ladies (and men!).

Sent from my iPhone using DISBoards

 

[disneyaway]

Has anybody done the breakfast after Princess? Is it good? Is it worth it? Do you show them an armband? How do you get in after the race? (Not the race retreat, just the breakfast that's for sale.) Thank you.

I haven't done the princess breakfast, but I just did the one after the Tink 5K. And, honestly, it was the biggest waste of money. They only had cereal, pastries, waffles and pancakes. There was no protein of any kind, which I was expecting since 1) it was after a 5K and 2) it was crazy expensive. The characters were in a little corner and were just Hook and Smee, alternating with Wendy. In retrospect, I would have been better off eating at one of the character meals.

To get in-- there is an armband you have to bring with you. I picked mine up at packet pickup at the expo

 

[annmarieda]

Hey Princesses! I have decided to defer the race. I know! But it really is the right choice for me at this time. I am 8 weeks preg and haven't run in a month because I have been literally sick 24 hrs a day with morning sickness. At this point just getting down to WDW will be an accomplishment for me! I spoke with Run Disney and I will be deferring to next year's Princess, and then they made a special exception/note on my file that I can defer again to the 2014 Wine and Dine which will give me plenty of time to train and prep (2014 Princess will be 15 weeks or so after I give birth to our first so cutting it a wee bit close imho). DH will be running this Princess of course, his first ever Half Marathon. I really know this is what's best for me. Sure I could try and drag my butt down there and try and walk most of it but i want to participate to my full extent. Especially because I feel like crap! It is bittersweet :-(

As much as I am sure you are disappointed to not do the phm... what better a reason to need to defer!!!

Have a happy healthy pregnancy!

As most of you probably did, I booked my trip back in July. It is paid in full and I have been training for months, over 180 miles since October. I just got a new part time job which has great earning potential at a new place that is not yet open and I am super excited about it. However, when I went to fill out paperwork and discuss scheduling I got a huge slap in the face. My new employer said there was absolutely NO WAY I could have Feb 22-25 off for the Princess! They actually pulled me right out of the paperwork session, took my employee folder and told me to call them when I get back from my trip. I was shocked! Who says "no exceptions" to something that has been planned long before this job was even a thought? I am so upset! After telling some of my family and friends I've actually had more than one person suggest I cancel my trip which I absolutely do not want to do! What are your thoughts?

That is a very frustrating situation! I hope it works out the way you want it to.

NOOOOO! A co-worker that sits maybe 5 feet from me just called to say her doctor confirmed she has the flu We've Lysol'd her entire desk area!!! I got my flu shot a while ago, but according to a gazillion other people it doesn't seem to matter this year. I REALLY hope I don't get sick!

That is a fear of mine...getting exposed to something and then coming down with it RIGHT before the race. Stay healthy!!!!

 

[Princess on the Run]

Hey Princesses! I have decided to defer the race. I know! But it really is the right choice for me at this time. I am 8 weeks preg and haven't run in a month because I have been literally sick 24 hrs a day with morning sickness. At this point just getting down to WDW will be an accomplishment for me! I spoke with Run Disney and I will be deferring to next year's Princess, and then they made a special exception/note on my file that I can defer again to the 2014 Wine and Dine which will give me plenty of time to train and prep (2014 Princess will be 15 weeks or so after I give birth to our first so cutting it a wee bit close imho). DH will be running this Princess of course, his first ever Half Marathon. I really know this is what's best for me. Sure I could try and drag my butt down there and try and walk most of it but i want to participate to my full extent. Especially because I feel like crap! It is bittersweet :-(

Oh hun, I know how hard that decision had to be. But there are races all the time and only one chance to bake up a healthy baby and keep yourself in good shape too. If you're not feeling it, you need to follow your heart and your gut instinct and do what's right for you and that teeny little ball of pixie dust. The good news is that I'll still get to see you at the W&D '14 because that's on our list!!!!

Hi Princesses
I just wanted to share......we just got back home from DL and running Tink. Had a great time and loved the warm weather.
This race was actually my best yet !!!!!
Really for the first time I was really "in the zone" and just kept pushing myself, kept running and had a strong finish. I'm usually very cautious (probably too cautious) especially when running by myself, but something just really clicked and I just went for it !!!! Maybe it was my wings. But I am even more excited for Princess and to really push and challenge myself even more.

I'm so excited and I knew you Princesses would "get it". Now I am half way there to finally getting my C2C. Until next years Tink, it's time to put my wings away and start polishing up my tiara.

Can't wait to run with all of you !!!!!!

That's awesome!!!!! So glad it was a great day and you got in the zone and made it happen!!!!! What we all hope for on such a special race day.

As most of you probably did, I booked my trip back in July. It is paid in full and I have been training for months, over 180 miles since October. I just got a new part time job which has great earning potential at a new place that is not yet open and I am super excited about it. However, when I went to fill out paperwork and discuss scheduling I got a huge slap in the face. My new employer said there was absolutely NO WAY I could have Feb 22-25 off for the Princess! They actually pulled me right out of the paperwork session, took my employee folder and told me to call them when I get back from my trip. I was shocked! Who says "no exceptions" to something that has been planned long before this job was even a thought? I am so upset! After telling some of my family and friends I've actually had more than one person suggest I cancel my trip which I absolutely do not want to do! What are your thoughts?

then I'd definitely examine whether or not it was worth it to work for a company that was so hard-nosed and not willing to give any leeway to it's employees on a case-by-case basis. What a crummy decision to have to make...sorry.

I would be pretty hard-pressed to work for an employer that could take such a stance against something you'd planned and paid for 6 months ago. So many people start a job and tell their employer they already had something booked. You don't necessarily expect to be paid for the time, but it's crazy they wouldn't let you go. I think I would do exactly what you did and tell them to please think of me if they need someone in March. Not only because you don't want to miss the PHM, but also because you want them to respect you and understand that you have certain boundaries (that you won't be bullied or taken advantage of).

Has anybody done the breakfast after Princess? Is it good? Is it worth it? Do you show them an armband? How do you get in after the race? (Not the race retreat, just the breakfast that's for sale.) Thank you.

I believe the breakfast that they are selling tickets to is on saturday after the 5k, not after the Princess on sunday. Not sure if that's what you meant, but just wanted to point out. I have never attended the breakfast myself.

We're doing that too. Mainly because DH is running the 5K and the kids are running the kids races so it will be easier than finding somewhere else to eat. I was annoyed when they moved the kids races though because now we won't have much time to eat before getting to their starting line AND they'll be running on full stomachs which is never good.

 

[indygirl99]

As most of you probably did, I booked my trip back in July. It is paid in full and I have been training for months, over 180 miles since October. I just got a new part time job which has great earning potential at a new place that is not yet open and I am super excited about it. However, when I went to fill out paperwork and discuss scheduling I got a huge slap in the face. My new employer said there was absolutely NO WAY I could have Feb 22-25 off for the Princess! They actually pulled me right out of the paperwork session, took my employee folder and told me to call them when I get back from my trip. I was shocked! Who says "no exceptions" to something that has been planned long before this job was even a thought? I am so upset! After telling some of my family and friends I've actually had more than one person suggest I cancel my trip which I absolutely do not want to do! What are your thoughts?

In november I applied for a transfer to one of our sister hospitals on the encouragement of a couple of nurses in that unit and the director of both our units. I interviewed and was very clear about the importance of my running and the races that I have signed up for. There is a requirement to work every third weekend and we looked at the weekends that I had signed up for my races. They had 2 other choices for which weekend to assign me.

I was offered the transfer and when I asked which weekend rotation I was assigned I was told XYZ weekend. The one weekend rotation that would put me working the weekend of all 6 races I am signed up for this year. I reminder her that was the one weekend I could not work and would have to decline the transfer.

I get called weekly asking if I can "float" over and help them out as they are busy. I work there more than my "home" unit.

If running is as important to you as it is to me I say go, run and contact them when you get back. If the job is supposed to be yours it will be there when you get back.

I just finished my first half marathon the Tinker Bell this past week at age 50 and I can tell you it is an experience you will never forget.

 

[annmarieda]

Tapering... so when do we start? With just a bit more than 4 weeks till the race, I am afraid that if I finish my training program I will cut it too close. (I have 21 days left of training. (3 weeks)

Starting tomorrow this is how it looks for me..

Day 1 of each week is a 30 minute run (so about 3 miles)
Day 2 is a rest day
Day 3 is a 50 minute run (about 5 miles)
Day 4 is a 30 (about 3 miles)
Day 5 is a rest day
Day 6 is a 108 (about 10.5 miles)
Day 7 is a walk day

the next week is

30 (3mi)
rest
56 (probably will just do 6 miles because it will be close)
30
rest
108 (10.5mi)
Walk

Then the final week is
30 (3)
rest
108 (10.5)
rest
rest
126 (12.5)
walk


Any thoughts? That will mean that my final big run will be on 2/12. That should work, right? Is it too much too close to the race? Or just right? Then just keep my runs to less than 5 miles until the phm? Or should I do one long run some where around the 19th?

I am sorry to go on and on... I just want to be well prepared for the race...without killing myself.

 

[princessmeghan]

Tapering... so when do we start? With just a bit more than 4 weeks till the race, I am afraid that if I finish my training program I will cut it too close. (I have 21 days left of training. (3 weeks)

Starting tomorrow this is how it looks for me..

Day 1 of each week is a 30 minute run (so about 3 miles)
Day 2 is a rest day
Day 3 is a 50 minute run (about 5 miles)
Day 4 is a 30 (about 3 miles)
Day 5 is a rest day
Day 6 is a 108 (about 10.5 miles)
Day 7 is a walk day

the next week is

30 (3mi)
rest
56 (probably will just do 6 miles because it will be close)
30
rest
108 (10.5mi)
Walk

Then the final week is
30 (3)
rest
108 (10.5)
rest
rest
126 (12.5)
walk


Any thoughts? That will mean that my final big run will be on 2/12. That should work, right? Is it too much too close to the race? Or just right? Then just keep my runs to less than 5 miles until the phm? Or should I do one long run some where around the 19th?

I am sorry to go on and on... I just want to be well prepared for the race...without killing myself.

I personally think 10.5 and 12.5 are too much combined the week before. Could you make the 10.5 a 12 or 12.5 then do maybe 6-8 in place of the 12.5?

 

[uccats97]

That is a very frustrating situation! I hope it works out the way you want it to.

Me too! I am choosing to be positive. I know I deserve this job! I decided I will leave one message a week reminding them that I will be back and ready to start training for them on Feb. 26. I'm not going to give them the chance to forget about me!

I would be pretty hard-pressed to work for an employer that could take such a stance against something you'd planned and paid for 6 months ago. So many people start a job and tell their employer they already had something booked. You don't necessarily expect to be paid for the time, but it's crazy they wouldn't let you go. I think I would do exactly what you did and tell them to please think of me if they need someone in March. Not only because you don't want to miss the PHM, but also because you want them to respect you and understand that you have certain boundaries (that you won't be bullied or taken advantage of).

I thought about that as well. I am trying to see things from their perspective...all new employees who need training, grand opening, their jobs on the line to make things go off smoothly, etc. But did they seriously think I would just say "ok, I'll cancel my trip right now"? They probably are feeling a lot of pressure and trying to work around my schedule is something they don't want to have to deal with right now. I'm optimistic that when I do get back I will start training, love the job and that they will have more flexibility as things get settled down.

In november I applied for a transfer to one of our sister hospitals on the encouragement of a couple of nurses in that unit and the director of both our units. I interviewed and was very clear about the importance of my running and the races that I have signed up for. There is a requirement to work every third weekend and we looked at the weekends that I had signed up for my races. They had 2 other choices for which weekend to assign me.

I was offered the transfer and when I asked which weekend rotation I was assigned I was told XYZ weekend. The one weekend rotation that would put me working the weekend of all 6 races I am signed up for this year. I reminder her that was the one weekend I could not work and would have to decline the transfer.

I get called weekly asking if I can "float" over and help them out as they are busy. I work there more than my "home" unit.

If running is as important to you as it is to me I say go, run and contact them when you get back. If the job is supposed to be yours it will be there when you get back.

I just finished my first half marathon the Tinker Bell this past week at age 50 and I can tell you it is an experience you will never forget.

Wow, what a crazy few months! I know how you feel. Sometimes it's like talking to a wall! I sure hope you are happy and doing what you love! My dream job is being a nurse...I'll get there someday!

Congrats on your first half! I am so looking forward to crossing that finish line and getting that medal!

 

[kanadar]

Hello all! My family and I have been big Disney fans for years, but this is me and my sisters first 1/2 and first rundisney race. We both started running last year and decided this would be our goal for several reasons, one being that our mother passed away on feb 24 10 years ago this year. What better way to remember her than in a place we all loved! We are super excited to be running in disney, since we have spent so much time there.

 

[IMGONNABE40!]

Sounds like a great way to celebrate your mom, Kanadar! Welcome!

 

[PrincessV]

NOOOOO! A co-worker that sits maybe 5 feet from me just called to say her doctor confirmed she has the flu We've Lysol'd her entire desk area!!! I got my flu shot a while ago, but according to a gazillion other people it doesn't seem to matter this year. I REALLY hope I don't get sick!

I hear ya... I have a compromised immune system AND I'm allergic enough to something in flu vaccines that my Dr. has said no more. I sent a very nice email to my entire office explaining this and asking them to kindly steer clear of my office if they even think they might be ill. Over the past 3 weeks, half of our staff has gone down with the flu. AAAAAAACCCCCKKKKKKK!!!!

If it is meant to be it will happen...after I come home from my first Princess and first half marathon!

This, exactly!

Any thoughts? That will mean that my final big run will be on 2/12. That should work, right? Is it too much too close to the race? Or just right? Then just keep my runs to less than 5 miles until the phm? Or should I do one long run some where around the 19th?

I really think it comes down to knowing your body and what it can handle/what makes it strong. There are folks who can put a whole lot of mileage in right before a race and be just fine, but others who need to drastically reduce distance in preparation for race day. I'm going by what's worked (and what hasn't) in training and how my body feels on any given week.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Here's something oddly interesting regarding running shoes...

I gave my new Brooks Ghost 5's a short run yesterday - on my gawdawful treadmill, no less - and once I got used to having so much more shoe under me (I've been using the more minimalist Pure Project line since summer), I was significantly faster than I've been in a long time! Same amount of effort and exertion, but I'm covering more distance, it seems. I don't get it! The Ghost's sole is taller and longer than the PureFlow's - could it be that they actually lengthen my stride?! Bizarre.

 

[joan4mickey]

Tapering... so when do we start? With just a bit more than 4 weeks till the race, I am afraid that if I finish my training program I will cut it too close. (I have 21 days left of training. (3 weeks)

Starting tomorrow this is how it looks for me..

Day 1 of each week is a 30 minute run (so about 3 miles)
Day 2 is a rest day
Day 3 is a 50 minute run (about 5 miles)
Day 4 is a 30 (about 3 miles)
Day 5 is a rest day
Day 6 is a 108 (about 10.5 miles)
Day 7 is a walk day

the next week is

30 (3mi)
rest
56 (probably will just do 6 miles because it will be close)
30
rest
108 (10.5mi)
Walk

Then the final week is
30 (3)
rest
108 (10.5)
rest
rest
126 (12.5)
walk


Any thoughts? That will mean that my final big run will be on 2/12. That should work, right? Is it too much too close to the race? Or just right? Then just keep my runs to less than 5 miles until the phm? Or should I do one long run some where around the 19th?

I am sorry to go on and on... I just want to be well prepared for the race...without killing myself.

First, I am not an expert, just a rec. runner.
I do see that you run three days a week like me and have similar pace. I just came oft the full, so I have a great base.

This is my plan:
Tomorrow 8 miles LR (20 sec over half pace), then following weeks LR: 2/1 10 miles; 2/8 12 miles; 2/15 8 miles.
On Mondays speed drills 6ish miles and Wednesday Mid tempos 6ish miles.
After 2/15, two easy runs on 2/18 & 20 3-4 miles.

I'm a bit confused on your weeks...but I wouldn't be running anything really long after 2/15. And runs after that should be easy so your body can recover and repair.

 

[LoveMyMoos]

NOOOOO! A co-worker that sits maybe 5 feet from me just called to say her doctor confirmed she has the flu We've Lysol'd her entire desk area!!! I got my flu shot a while ago, but according to a gazillion other people it doesn't seem to matter this year. I REALLY hope I don't get sick!

Ack! Hope you don't get sick! This is a huge fear of mine, catching something before the race. I'm on so many immune boosting vitamins and herbs it's not even funny, trying to keep myself healthy. *Knocking on wood* So far so good. My kids have been through a tummy bug and strep throat in the past month and I didn't get any of it.