Official 2016 Princess Half Marathon Thread

[Ariel484]

I thought that costumes for anyone over the age of 12 were prohibited before, except for MNSSHP? I've never worn a traditional costume to WDW, the most I've done is disneybounding. I thought their no-costumes rule for adults was so that children didn't confuse them for face characters inside the parks. Honestly, in terms of security, I'd be more concerned with people wearing overly loose/baggy clothing than costumes.

When it comes to the races, same thing for me - I have never worn a traditional costume (how itchy and hot would I get!). Since the races occur outside of park hours, I would assume that if a runner intended to visit the parks after the race concluded and they were in an actual costume, then they'd be asked to change before being allowed to enter the parks.

As for the metal detectors, I don't mind them at all. Sure, it might take away from the 'magical' feeling, but if it means we're safe, then so be it. The times they are a-changing. However, I think they should be required for all guests, not just a random selection. One, that could land Disney in hot water for "profiling" their random selectees, and two, just because Grandpa Joe who got selected in front of me isn't packin' a .45 on his hip doesn't mean that the guy behind me doesn't have a revolver stashed in his boot. Andplusalso, if they actually move to replace bag check with metal detectors, then they really need to make it mandatory for all to enter.

Agreed that everyone should have to go through. I think the costume change raised the age from 10+ to 14+ (or the other way around, I forget), and I'm with you...I thought that rule was always in place. The Marathon Weekend people can be our guinea pigs!

 

[Mil leech]

I know what you mean, especially with them already revealing the Star Wars medals (to boost sales maybe?)...and that race is after Princess!

I think we can make good guesses as to what the medals would look like, but I'm hoping we'll see something official in early January. Otherwise I'm afraid they'll put it off until mid-January (after WDW Weekend and DLR Stars Wars weekend). I hope that doesn't happen!!

I think the Star Wars medals were released for the Movie tomorrow.... all things Disney are star wars related until the movie is released....

 

[princessluna14]

Maybe when the event guide/bib numbers/corrals/waivers come out it will help. I know just having the event guide released the other day for SW Half Weekend at DL put the FEAR in me and I started training hard again.

When does that stuff normally come out for Princess weekend?

 

[Ariel484]

When does that stuff normally come out for Princess weekend?

I'd expect the guide, bib numbers/waivers and corrals about a month before race weekend.

 

[princessluna14]

I'd expect the guide, bib numbers/waivers and corrals about a month before race weekend.

Thanks!

 

[Luv2Run]

When does that stuff normally come out for Princess weekend?

According to rD's website, the official event guide/prgoram and waivers/bib numbers will be released 2 weeks prior to the event (it's been 30 days prior to the event in years past, so this is a change). That's usually around the time the corrals are announced, too.

 

[DVCFan1994]

I thought that costumes for anyone over the age of 12 were prohibited before, except for MNSSHP? I've never worn a traditional costume to WDW, the most I've done is disneybounding. I thought their no-costumes rule for adults was so that children didn't confuse them for face characters inside the parks. Honestly, in terms of security, I'd be more concerned with people wearing overly loose/baggy clothing than costumes.

When it comes to the races, same thing for me - I have never worn a traditional costume (how itchy and hot would I get!). Since the races occur outside of park hours, I would assume that if a runner intended to visit the parks after the race concluded and they were in an actual costume, then they'd be asked to change before being allowed to enter the parks.

As for the metal detectors, I don't mind them at all. Sure, it might take away from the 'magical' feeling, but if it means we're safe, then so be it. The times they are a-changing. However, I think they should be required for all guests, not just a random selection. One, that could land Disney in hot water for "profiling" their random selectees, and two, just because Grandpa Joe who got selected in front of me isn't packin' a .45 on his hip doesn't mean that the guy behind me doesn't have a revolver stashed in his boot. Andplusalso, if they actually move to replace bag check with metal detectors, then they really need to make it mandatory for all to enter.

From what I've read, the new rule also covers special events, which it didn't previously. Meaning adults can't wear costumes to the Halloween party, which would be a change. Question is does that carry over to to races? The reporter from the Sentinel whose article was the first I read, has said via Twitter that it's been confirmed to her the new rule includes no adults dressing up for Halloween parties, she's waiting for clarification on runDisney events.

Although I don't go all out, I love seeing those that do. My first PHM seeing a woman with the confidence to rock the slave Princess Leia costume while running the half, and men in full princess gowns helped me get through a painful race. At Avengers this year, tons of all out costumes at all three races. My favorite being three people dressed as Lego Avengers characters, which required huge cardboard boxes. So I'm hoping the policy for races won't change drastically.

 

[Panikim]

WOO...I am HERE for that.

I think I found a picture of the one from last year but the Dis doesn't seem to want to let me post it.

Beach Club is definitely an excellent location. You're within walking distance of Epcot (no more than a 10-minute walk - you would enter through the back entrance which is called the International Gateway) and Hollywood Studios (no more than a 20-minute walk). Just walking around and looking at the other surrounding resorts (Yacht Club next door and Boardwalk across the lake) is fun too. They also have boats that take you to Epcot/Hollywood Studios, so if you're super serious about staying off of your feet, you can take the boats. You can get to Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom by bus (or walk through Epcot and get the monorail to Magic Kingdom - would require a park hopper).

Personally I like to get park hoppers just to have the option to go from park to park, but I guess that's a decision you guys can make. In staying at the Beach Club you would have the option of popping into Epcot to get lunch or whatever from World Showcase, which is nice. And then if you have a hopper you could still head to a different park. If you only have 2 park days I think I would recommend the hopper.

Your husband will not need a ticket to get into Epcot to see you at the finish line - the finish line is in an Epcot parking lot. He'll need to take the race transportation to get there without using a ticket - alternative would be entering the park through the International Gateway and walking through the park to get to the finish line that way. Your TA is right that your husband can take the bus to the start with you, but keep in mind that there will be a certain point where he won't be allowed to walk any further with you, so he won't be able to be with you the entire time. And if he's really going for husband of the year status, since you're staying at Beach Club it would be easy for him to watch some of the 10K as well. If you look at the course map you'll notice the 10K goes right by your resort.

Nope. Preparing for these runs is not trivial and you have been planning this trip for awhile. In the world of Disney planning, this is pretty last-minute to make major changes.[/QUOTE

From what I've read, the new rule also covers special events, which it didn't previously. Meaning adults can't wear costumes to the Halloween party, which would be a change. Question is does that carry over to to races? The reporter from the Sentinel whose article was the first I read, has said via Twitter that it's been confirmed to her the new rule includes no adults dressing up for Halloween parties, she's waiting for clarification on runDisney events.

Although I don't go all out, I love seeing those that do. My first PHM seeing a woman with the confidence to rock the slave Princess Leia costume while running the half, and men in full princess gowns helped me get through a painful race. At Avengers this year, tons of all out costumes at all three races. My favorite being three people dressed as Lego Avengers characters, which required huge cardboard boxes. So I'm hoping the policy for races won't change drastically.

Ok so probably another stupid question on my part but what about a tutu with a tail attached for Ariel? This is truly frustrating! I haven't heard about the change so I am probably freaking for no reason but still!!

 

[Ariel484]

From what I've read, the new rule also covers special events, which it didn't previously. Meaning adults can't wear costumes to the Halloween party, which would be a change. Question is does that carry over to to races? The reporter from the Sentinel whose article was the first I read, has said via Twitter that it's been confirmed to her the new rule includes no adults dressing up for Halloween parties, she's waiting for clarification on runDisney events.

Although I don't go all out, I love seeing those that do. My first PHM seeing a woman with the confidence to rock the slave Princess Leia costume while running the half, and men in full princess gowns helped me get through a painful race. At Avengers this year, tons of all out costumes at all three races. My favorite being three people dressed as Lego Avengers characters, which required huge cardboard boxes. So I'm hoping the policy for races won't change drastically.

Take it with a grain of salt: I have heard that it DOES apply to runDisney events, but that rD is getting clarification on what exactly that means.

Ok so probably another stupid question on my part but what about a tutu with a tail attached for Ariel? This is truly frustrating! I haven't heard about the change so I am probably freaking for no reason but still!!

I don't think that's what they are talking about when they are saying "costumes," but again, it seems like clarification is still needed on this. They only announced the change today. Will be curious to see what happens in January at Marathon and DLR Star Wars race weekends.

 

[Ariel484]

Posting this from the Marathon Weekend thread, per @GrandAdmiralStrife
"posted by Rachel Gurwitz on the Team #RunDisney page in response to the story on security measures (concerning costumes):
"I have heard from runDisney. They say they are still determining how this will affect races and how it will be implemented. They are waiting for the policy to be officially set and then he says they will communicate what it will be through all means possible. I'm sure they are scrambling to decide how this will work for them. RunD is actually very separate from the Disney company and they simply have to follow all Disney rules."

Take that for what it's worth. It's far easier to come down hard on day 1 and walk it back than it is to start soft and harden up over a few weeks."

"edit: a CM also posted, stating that as of right now the ban includes all runDisney events"

 

[Panikim]

Posting this from the Marathon Weekend thread, per @GrandAdmiralStrife
"posted by Rachel Gurwitz on the Team #RunDisney page in response to the story on security measures (concerning costumes):
"I have heard from runDisney. They say they are still determining how this will affect races and how it will be implemented. They are waiting for the policy to be officially set and then he says they will communicate what it will be through all means possible. I'm sure they are scrambling to decide how this will work for them. RunD is actually very separate from the Disney company and they simply have to follow all Disney rules."

Take that for what it's worth. It's far easier to come down hard on day 1 and walk it back than it is to start soft and harden up over a few weeks."

"edit: a CM also posted, stating that as of right now the ban includes all runDisney events"

I just sent and email to runDisney as I am sure many people are doing. What is upsetting is that this is such a huge part of this event! I am doing this for so many reasons but this is definitely one. And let's all be honest, it wasn't cheap. I know I am just belly aching and sound like a spoiled little kid but it isn't fair to change the rules half way through the game.

 

[Ariel484]

I just sent and email to runDisney as I am sure many people are doing. What is upsetting is that this is such a huge part of this event! I am doing this for so many reasons but this is definitely one. And let's all be honest, it wasn't cheap. I know I am just belly aching and sound like a spoiled little kid but it isn't fair to change the rules half way through the game.

This isn't runDisney changing the rules. This is DISNEY changing the rules based on a strong recommendation from the government.

 

[Panikim]

This isn't runDisney changing the rules. This is DISNEY changing the rules based on a strong recommendation from the government.

Oh I get it completely. And I understand it is a Disney rule however I am just looking for further clarification as to how it affect the 26,000 of us running that weekend. Just like any policy, they cannot go over every since situation that may arise so I thought since this was more of a special situation I would go directly to the source who has access to the policy and policy makers for clarification.

Regardless I am totally cool with making things more safe. I have already thought about that after the Paris tragedy. And like it or not Disney is going to make the decision that they feel is best for all of us. I just need a hot second to choke down and digest the rule, but in the aspect that it pertains to us as runners.

 

[Ariel484]

I agree that they need to clarify the rule. From what I posted above it sounds like they are not ready to do so.

 

[Panikim]

I agree that they need to clarify the rule. From what I posted above it sounds like they are not ready to do so.

Yea. Best case scenerio, they would have these decisions made and ready to supply info when you drop a bomb like this.

 

[DVCFan1994]

Take it with a grain of salt: I have heard that it DOES apply to runDisney events, but that rD is getting clarification on what exactly that means.

I don't think that's what they are talking about when they are saying "costumes," but again, it seems like clarification is still needed on this. They only announced the change today. Will be curious to see what happens in January at Marathon and DLR Star Wars race weekends.

So this is definitely going to sound selfish, but I'm glad there will be two race weekends prior to ours to get the details straight! As I said, I don't think it will affect what I wear much, but I would miss seeing the more elaborate costumes. There is a lot of conjecture and speculation, and it will be hard to know the truth until Disney puts out official guidelines.

I am guessing tutus won't be affected, on the other hand, they could conceal what is under them. I suppose there could be a please lift your tutu line

 

[Ariel484]

So this is definitely going to sound selfish, but I'm glad there will be two race weekends prior to ours to get the details straight! As I said, I don't think it will affect what I wear much, but I would miss seeing the more elaborate costumes. There is a lot of conjecture and speculation, and it will be hard to know the truth until Disney puts out official guidelines.

I am guessing tutus won't be affected, on the other hand, they could conceal what is under them. I suppose there could be a please lift your tutu line

So agree with the bolded.

 

[Keels]

Yea. Best case scenerio, they would have these decisions made and ready to supply info when you drop a bomb like this.

OK - everybody needs to take a beat and a deep breath before getting all worked up over something that may or may not happen two months from now.

I think OUR concept of "costumes" is completely different than a "costume" that an adult wears to the park. Honestly, Disney had become lax in enforcing the "no costumes for those over 14" in recent years - this is a rule that has been around since I worked at Magic Kingdom back in the late 90's. This costume bit is just reinforcing that rule that has been in effect for decades.

It's not worth worrying over at this point. If there is anything that is going to change, those of us running the Marathon in a couple weeks will be the first ones to know. I think the rules will generally stay the same and RunDisney will continue to reserve the right to ask individuals with "costumes" they feel are inappropriate to change into something else.

If anything is going to change for run weekends going forward, I imagine it's going to involve heightened screening (think metal detectors to enter the pre-race area) and increased search of hydration belts, or even restrictions on sizes of those things.

 

[BriarRose59]

In reading how far everyone is going for their long runs, I'm right up there with you, 6 to 7 miles, but I'm walking. I have 2 months. Advice, please. I am getting stronger, but the speed just isn't there. Can I get some good advice on how to use these next two months to train to the very best of my advantage? Background, I just turned 60, am overweight, but have lost 20 pounds since September. I'd love to finish, but I'm beginning to wonder if I should set my goal a little lower. Right now I think, "Oh, I can get to the Magic Kingdom, no problem." Thanks in advance for everyone's support.

I just caught up from being a few days behind, but I had to respond to this post. I'm 56, 20 lbs overweight and a new runner/walker. I have been using the Galloway method since May. I trained for a 10K first and am now training for the Dark Side Challenge. I use a 1 minute run/45 sec walk ratio. I am slow, but that's okay. All of my friends tell me how great they think it is that I'm doing this. They wouldn't even try. Do you have access to an elliptical? I've found that it works my hip joints better than a treadmill so works well for your walking stride. Keep working, you'll get the speed.

On the survey, my husband received it but didn't care to complete it. I did it for him

This costume thing is news to me. I wore a full costume (Red Queen from Alice) to a MNSSHP before and had a great time. This is very disappointing but I do understand the reasoning. Safety has to come first. I've Disneybounded (is that a word?) also. It's loads of fun planning your outfit and shopping for themed accessories. Our outfits are more of a Disneybound. My DD24 and I are doing Scuttle and Sebastian for the 5K. For the 10K we're doing the pink and blue Aurora outfits. We're using running tops and sparkle skirts with some embellishments. My DD is making crowns for us.

I can't believe it's so close! I also can't believe Christmas is next Friday! Yikes!

 

[bumbershoot]

According to rD's website, the official event guide/prgoram and waivers/bib numbers will be released 2 weeks prior to the event (it's been 30 days prior to the event in years past, so this is a change).

Guide SW is already out. Thought bibs were officially released, but it's just Dis'ers knowing where the page is and seeing that it's being populated already.

Ok so probably another stupid question on my part but what about a tutu with a tail attached for Ariel? This is truly frustrating! I haven't heard about the change so I am probably freaking for no reason but still!!

That's not a costume.

I know I am just belly aching and sound like a spoiled little kid but it isn't fair to change the rules half way through the game.

I think you're totally righteous.

This is DISNEY changing the rules based on a strong recommendation from the government.

Because the govt cares if I put on a princess costume?

Honestly, Disney had become lax in enforcing the "no costumes for those over 14" in recent years - this is a rule that has been around since I worked at Magic Kingdom back in the late 90's. This costume bit is just reinforcing that rule that has been in effect for decades.

They weren't lax. They had changed the rules, in writing, on their websites.

They had stated that if you were an adult in costume you could not have hair and makeup as well. That you could not impede the traffic of the park by interacting with other guests as the character. Those were in writing on their websites. It wasn't being lax.

No doubt because Disney CMs can't even enforce those rules, it all had to change back, but it doesn't change the fact that the rules were different for a couple years.


I don't wear costumes, like, ever, so this isn't something that ruins my life, but I do like reading all the rules on Disney sites every so often, and it was all there the last couple years!