RunDisney Discount

[farrellbarrel]

Hi! I was just wondering if any of you knew how easy it was and when I should book for a stay in May 2014 for the Expedition Everest Challenge. They have not put the date of the run on their home page, but if you look around the date in under volunteers. It will be May 3rd, 2014. The room rates for last year's runners under the rundisney discount are great, and I want to take advantage of those if I can (it was one night about 50 dollars cheaper at a value!). It says to call a number. Do you think I could book online and then call? Thank you for your help.

 

[nervous1sttimer]

Last year I ran the W&D 1/2, so it might have been different for the EE challenge, but the runDisney rates were NOT a discount. I originally booked my package directly through RD, but as I started to do some research, I realized they were just straight up rack rates. I ended up cancelling and booking through Disney when Free Dining became available, but I would have switched my res even without FD because when you book with RD you are not eligible for any room-only or other discounts that are released down the line.

I'm going back in February for the Princess 1/2 and this time they have even eliminated discount park tickets through RD! So there is absolutely ZERO benefit to booking through RD anymore. The only thing is that they do have blocks of rooms set aside, so if you were really hoping for something that Disney is otherwise sold out of (like RGR or TPV or something) then you might find it with RD. And RD gives you a "special gift" for registered runners who book with them. Last year it was a W&D gym bag. Not worth the cost at all!

 

[nervous1sttimer]

Sorry, I just realized that I gave you a bunch of information without even answering your question.

No, you will not be able to call RD and book their special rate (if they have one) until after registration for the event opens. Good luck!

 

[farrellbarrel]

Last year I ran the W&D 1/2, so it might have been different for the EE challenge, but the runDisney rates were NOT a discount. I originally booked my package directly through RD, but as I started to do some research, I realized they were just straight up rack rates. I ended up cancelling and booking through Disney when Free Dining became available, but I would have switched my res even without FD because when you book with RD you are not eligible for any room-only or other discounts that are released down the line.

I'm going back in February for the Princess 1/2 and this time they have even eliminated discount park tickets through RD! So there is absolutely ZERO benefit to booking through RD anymore. The only thing is that they do have blocks of rooms set aside, so if you were really hoping for something that Disney is otherwise sold out of (like RGR or TPV or something) then you might find it with RD. And RD gives you a "special gift" for registered runners who book with them. Last year it was a W&D gym bag. Not worth the cost at all!

Thank you! When registration opens its passed my 180 days (because EE is so small compared to other races). I guess I'll book beginning of September and hope for the best!! Good luck in February! I'm hoping to run that race as my first 1/2 marathon in 2015!

 

[heimlichfan]

There are agencies that book group rates often for big name events at WDW. I happen to be affiliated with one (am I allowed to say that on the DISboards?, I'm sorry if I crossed a line or something.) if you would like more info.