Official Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend - The Dark Side 2017

[bryana]

Oh, man... I was checking out the Polynesian/TTC thing over satellite, so I took a glimpse at the route. Bad idea. There will be a big bottleneck at about .65 miles. (And maybe a slight one at 1.25 after that.) I would hope they wouldn't start the sweep timing until after everyone gets onto Bear Island Drive. It won't be as bad as last year, but not a smooth as we thought near the start. Oh, well.

I fail to see where there will be a bottle neck - are you talking about the turns?

 

[Chasing Dopey]

I fail to see where there will be a bottle neck - are you talking about the turns?

Yeah, they use that 'last second' turnaround lane to drive back to parking before getting onto World Drive. I didn't realize it was just one lane. I wonder if they'll use all four lanes going up to that point, or just two or three. It reminds me of the turn lane last year by Epcot, which wasn't a problem for a lot of people, but pretty jammed when I got there. I guess folks will just use the grass like last time. The second one is that turn lane for Bear Island, but that is a wide one lane, so shouldn't be too bad.

 

[GrandMum]

Ditto on the shoes. I hate to say it, but getting shoes 'fitted' isn't all it's cracked up to be. The best option, I have found, is to find an online running store that will allow test period and still let you return/exchange the shoes. (roadrunnersports and I think fit2run, for example). That way, you can order and test to your heart's content. Everyone is so different physiologically, 'conventional wisdom' on running shoes appears (to me) to be bunk.

Other than that, keep up the PT and possibly enhance that to every other day. (Are you doing that at home? What kind of foot pain?) If you can walk without pain, get as much time out there as you can, as that is still beneficial! Wrap your shin. Even an ace bandage may help if you get it on their snug (but not pulsating tight) and provide some compression. Last time I had shin splints threatening me, I think that made a difference keeping it from getting worse. And it felt good. (Wore it all day and night for a few days.)

Good luck! I know it seems time is closing in, but stay positive, fight!fight!fight!

Thanks for the suggestions and encouragement. I was able to return the shoes without a problem and have gone back to my Brooks which are broken in and still enough tread. I'm getting PT from a clinic attached to my podiatrist office. Fortunately, the one I'm seeing is also a runner and he suggested I just walk - don't look at distance or time. I just got some compression sleeves to try. The foot pain is throbbing at night but not when I walk.

 

[Goofy2015]

Running Costume Plans:

Star Wars 10K - Imperial Director Orson Krennic
Star Wars Half Marathon - Boba Fett

May The Force Be With You!

 

[bryana]

Yeah, they use that 'last second' turnaround lane to drive back to parking before getting onto World Drive. I didn't realize it was just one lane. I wonder if they'll use all four lanes going up to that point, or just two or three. It reminds me of the turn lane last year by Epcot, which wasn't a problem for a lot of people, but pretty jammed when I got there. I guess folks will just use the grass like last time. The second one is that turn lane for Bear Island, but that is a wide one lane, so shouldn't be too bad.

Granted it wasn't at the beginning of the race, but the 2015 Marathon used the same turns and I don't remember it being that much of an issue. I guess it'll just have to depend on how well the mini-waves for each of the last two corrals do at spreading out that many people.

 

[DisSconnie]

Question on race protocol/politeness - I do run/walk intervals (as it seem lots do). What's the general rule with slowing to a walk? I've seen people mentioning sticking a hand out - like to the side? Or up? Or what? I'm probably over thinking this, but I got stepped on during a race once (while I was running, not walking) and it was annoying as hell. Do slower runners usually stick to the right, faster to the left?

 

[mbwhitti]

Question on race protocol/politeness - I do run/walk intervals (as it seem lots do). What's the general rule with slowing to a walk? I've seen people mentioning sticking a hand out - like to the side? Or up? Or what? I'm probably over thinking this, but I got stepped on during a race once (while I was running, not walking) and it was annoying as hell. Do slower runners usually stick to the right, faster to the left?

Before I start a walk (or run for that matter) I raise my hand up. Generally I'll glance behind me before slowing to a walk as well.

 

[MissLiss279]

Question on race protocol/politeness - I do run/walk intervals (as it seem lots do). What's the general rule with slowing to a walk? I've seen people mentioning sticking a hand out - like to the side? Or up? Or what? I'm probably over thinking this, but I got stepped on during a race once (while I was running, not walking) and it was annoying as hell. Do slower runners usually stick to the right, faster to the left?

I think the guides used to say ''move to the side" when walking (I could be wrong). And it didn't say which side. However, the guide for this race just says to move to the side if you hear 'excuse me' or 'coming through'.

I remember once (last year, maybe??), a runner yelling 'walkers on the right, runners on the left' and was not overly friendly about it... and there really was nowhere to move to because it was crowded (I was able to keep my running pace without having to walk, but there wasn't a whole lot of extra room.) So, I would say run/walk where you find space, and hopefully most people will be polite when passing, but be prepared for those who are not. Don't let any course congestion get to you - remember where you are running and try to enjoy every step!

 

[RadioDave]

Hi everybody!
Just joining now after lurking forever because I had a couple questions... you all have already been more helpful than you know!

1.) I've seen the maps, I've read the guides, but something is still unclear to me: I see where drivers can drop runners off at the Charter Bus Parking but are people allowed to physically park their cars at the MK? Last year my gf and I ignored all the dire warnings from Disney, drove straight to EPCOT and had no problems parking. Then after the race we just bussed back... way more convenient IMO. But if I'm reading everything correctly the entrance to the parking lot will be closed off? Is that even possible?

2.) Last year I just did the Half Marathon and this year I'm running the Dark Side Challenge. Has anyone here done a back-to-back challenge before, and if so... what do you do in between the two races to minimize the wear and tear? I've got a 50-min massage scheduled for a few hours after the 10K but I'm wondering if there are other recovery tips and tricks you guys use.

 

[WhereInFlorida]

Yeah, they use that 'last second' turnaround lane to drive back to parking before getting onto World Drive. I didn't realize it was just one lane. I wonder if they'll use all four lanes going up to that point, or just two or three. It reminds me of the turn lane last year by Epcot, which wasn't a problem for a lot of people, but pretty jammed when I got there. I guess folks will just use the grass like last time. The second one is that turn lane for Bear Island, but that is a wide one lane, so shouldn't be too bad.

My thoughts were the same for that first section. Maps has a view of that area, definitely one lane without medians. But flat on the grass area so would suspect as well you will see many runners there if it is dry.

 

[WhereInFlorida]

Hi everybody!
1.) I've seen the maps, I've read the guides, but something is still unclear to me: I see where drivers can drop runners off at the Charter Bus Parking but are people allowed to physically park their cars at the MK? Last year my gf and I ignored all the dire warnings from Disney, drove straight to EPCOT and had no problems parking. Then after the race we just bussed back... way more convenient IMO. But if I'm reading everything correctly the entrance to the parking lot will be closed off? Is that even possible?

At 4:00am it certainly would be easy for them to close off the parking lot. If you are insistent on trying give yourself enough time to drive back and park where they do allow it.

 

[bryana]

Hi everybody!
Just joining now after lurking forever because I had a couple questions... you all have already been more helpful than you know!

1.) I've seen the maps, I've read the guides, but something is still unclear to me: I see where drivers can drop runners off at the Charter Bus Parking but are people allowed to physically park their cars at the MK? Last year my gf and I ignored all the dire warnings from Disney, drove straight to EPCOT and had no problems parking. Then after the race we just bussed back... way more convenient IMO. But if I'm reading everything correctly the entrance to the parking lot will be closed off? Is that even possible?

The event guide says:

"Please note that there will be no parking at Magic Kingdom® Park for the Star Wars 10K and the Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side."

 

[cavepig]

2.) Last year I just did the Half Marathon and this year I'm running the Dark Side Challenge. Has anyone here done a back-to-back challenge before, and if so... what do you do in between the two races to minimize the wear and tear? I've got a 50-min massage scheduled for a few hours after the 10K but I'm wondering if there are other recovery tips and tricks you guys use.

I go to the parks, the walking around helps prevent stiffness, wear compression sleeves and make sure I'm back in the room fairly early evening to get off my feet. I'll stick roll my calves, quads and hamstrings, shins, etc at some point after the 10k. I have some H2O mint foot rub I'll use on my feet, not sure if it really helps but soothes my feet it seems I'll have a chocolate milk right after the 10k, I put a Nesquick bottle in the gear check bag and then I make sure to drink drink drink all day including the Powerade bottles they had out at the end.

 

[opusone]

Question on race protocol/politeness - I do run/walk intervals (as it seem lots do). What's the general rule with slowing to a walk? I've seen people mentioning sticking a hand out - like to the side? Or up? Or what? I'm probably over thinking this, but I got stepped on during a race once (while I was running, not walking) and it was annoying as hell. Do slower runners usually stick to the right, faster to the left?

I remember once (last year, maybe??), a runner yelling 'walkers on the right, runners on the left'...So, I would say run/walk where you find space...

I would just move to the side while still running, raise your hand (if it's busy), quickly glance behind you, and then start walking. There are many run-walk folks at Disney races, so most people will be familiar with the process.

As far as which side: if on a straight road, move to either side (doesn't matter); however, if on a turn or bend in the road, I would suggest moving to the outside of the turn.

 

[Chasing Dopey]

Question on race protocol/politeness - I do run/walk intervals (as it seem lots do). What's the general rule with slowing to a walk? I've seen people mentioning sticking a hand out - like to the side? Or up? Or what? I'm probably over thinking this, but I got stepped on during a race once (while I was running, not walking) and it was annoying as hell. Do slower runners usually stick to the right, faster to the left?

Put your hand up (like in school). What I like to do is put the hand up, glance behind to my right to make sure there is no one there, then slide over and get behind someone who is already walking before I start my walk. That way I'm more assured there isn't someone barreling up, because there is already a walker there. Works pretty well. If you do get tangled up, just say sorry! They'll realize they weren't paying attention when they see the hand up.

Hi everybody!
Just joining now after lurking forever because I had a couple questions... you all have already been more helpful than you know!

1.) I've seen the maps, I've read the guides, but something is still unclear to me: I see where drivers can drop runners off at the Charter Bus Parking but are people allowed to physically park their cars at the MK? Last year my gf and I ignored all the dire warnings from Disney, drove straight to EPCOT and had no problems parking. Then after the race we just bussed back... way more convenient IMO. But if I'm reading everything correctly the entrance to the parking lot will be closed off? Is that even possible?

2.) Last year I just did the Half Marathon and this year I'm running the Dark Side Challenge. Has anyone here done a back-to-back challenge before, and if so... what do you do in between the two races to minimize the wear and tear? I've got a 50-min massage scheduled for a few hours after the 10K but I'm wondering if there are other recovery tips and tricks you guys use.

WELCOME!

Answer to 1): Nope. I would say go ahead and park at Epcot and take the bus from there. Not the most convenient to begin with, but you will have your car at the finish, which is really nice.

Answer to 2): Oh, that massage sounds nice! I imagine that will do a lot for you. Otherwise, there's nothing wrong with going to the parks, but I would say don't rush around and walk slow and take it easy. The main thing is go to bed early!

 

[zgirls]

Hi everybody!
Just joining now after lurking forever because I had a couple questions... you all have already been more helpful than you know!

1.) I've seen the maps, I've read the guides, but something is still unclear to me: I see where drivers can drop runners off at the Charter Bus Parking but are people allowed to physically park their cars at the MK? Last year my gf and I ignored all the dire warnings from Disney, drove straight to EPCOT and had no problems parking. Then after the race we just bussed back... way more convenient IMO. But if I'm reading everything correctly the entrance to the parking lot will be closed off? Is that even possible?

2.) Last year I just did the Half Marathon and this year I'm running the Dark Side Challenge. Has anyone here done a back-to-back challenge before, and if so... what do you do in between the two races to minimize the wear and tear? I've got a 50-min massage scheduled for a few hours after the 10K but I'm wondering if there are other recovery tips and tricks you guys use.

1) for the 10k, I have same dilemma, this is the first Disney race I am not staying on property, will be on property for the half - so I will probably park at Epcot and bus over to MK - if possible
2) drink beer while laying at a pool, take a nap, then go eat at Disney Springs and drink again - it is a runcation after all

 

[RadioDave]

Thank you all for the assistance... I swore I read that guide to cover to cover but I guess I missed the line about MK being a no-park zone.

Honestly last year the guide had a lot of information that turned out to be dead wrong. They did everything possible to dissuade people driving to EPCOT because of the "massive amounts of traffic" and we drove right there no issue.

Let's just hope the buses from EPCOT to MK aren't t-h-a-t insane. I hear the buses from the resorts to the staging area are generally a big cluster.

 

[Ndusmama]

Thanks for the suggestions and encouragement. I was able to return the shoes without a problem and have gone back to my Brooks which are broken in and still enough tread. I'm getting PT from a clinic attached to my podiatrist office. Fortunately, the one I'm seeing is also a runner and he suggested I just walk - don't look at distance or time. I just got some compression sleeves to try. The foot pain is throbbing at night but not when I walk.

I love my compression sleeves.

Hi everybody!
Just joining now after lurking forever because I had a couple questions... you all have already been more helpful than you know!

1.) I've seen the maps, I've read the guides, but something is still unclear to me: I see where drivers can drop runners off at the Charter Bus Parking but are people allowed to physically park their cars at the MK? Last year my gf and I ignored all the dire warnings from Disney, drove straight to EPCOT and had no problems parking. Then after the race we just bussed back... way more convenient IMO. But if I'm reading everything correctly the entrance to the parking lot will be closed off? Is that even possible?

2.) Last year I just did the Half Marathon and this year I'm running the Dark Side Challenge. Has anyone here done a back-to-back challenge before, and if so... what do you do in between the two races to minimize the wear and tear? I've got a 50-min massage scheduled for a few hours after the 10K but I'm wondering if there are other recovery tips and tricks you guys use.

Welcome. I would try running a back to back run this weekend. Otherwise I go to a movie or just walk around dtd (only ca runs so far so dtd is closer then Disney spring) this time I plan to meander around the flower and garden festival. Bed early!

 

[MommaoffherRocker]

Honestly last year the guide had a lot of information that turned out to be dead wrong. They did everything possible to dissuade people driving to EPCOT because of the "massive amounts of traffic" and we drove right there no issue.

Last year you could park at Epcot (they did encourage you to take their transportation if you were staying on property) but not WWoS and I'm pretty sure that was strongly enforced so I wouldn't try to park at MK.

I hear the buses from the resorts to the staging area are generally a big cluster.

I know it happens sometimes but I have done the past 4 race weekends and never had a problem.

 

[KAT4DISNEY]

Thanks for the suggestions and encouragement. I was able to return the shoes without a problem and have gone back to my Brooks which are broken in and still enough tread. I'm getting PT from a clinic attached to my podiatrist office. Fortunately, the one I'm seeing is also a runner and he suggested I just walk - don't look at distance or time. I just got some compression sleeves to try. The foot pain is throbbing at night but not when I walk.

I'm in a similar situation this year - did the Lightside 5K & 10K and a week later began my first of 3 injuries to either knees or my left ankle. I just settled in to rest and recuperate and began riding a bike a couple of weeks ago. The recuperation has been the main focus because if it heals then it's doable but if still in a lot of pain that will be more difficult although still doable. It will be a walk and cross the fingers - not much else to do really and that's ok - can't plan the injuries. I'm not worried about the 5K and feel relatively ok for the 10K - my niece walked the Lightside 10K since she was pregnant and finished just fine from the last corral.