The New *Official 2013 Disney Princess Half Marathon Thread*

[MRS AR]

Yesterday my fellow princess-in-training Alana and I ran our last 10K before the Princess. Similar to the above post where 1:10 was the last finishing time of a 10K race (!!!), our race yesterday was a bunch of very serious runners in my community and the last finisher was 1:20. But the good news is that I PR'ed the race by over a minute with 56:04 which I am so excited to send to Disney! Was not expecting a PR at all since I ran 13.1 miles last weekend and did basically everything you are not supposed to do leading up to a race LOL, but I got out there and felt awesome regardless. My friend and I were so emotional doing our last race together before Disney - we have been training for 9 months and had a race every month (at least). It was so powerful to think back during the race about the many races, and miles of training, leading up to this one. I love the journey more than anything!!!

Jodi
www.2princessesontherun.wordpress.com

Now I'm getting even more nervous about my 1st ever 5k this Saturday. I am on week 5 of Galloway's 13.1 and thought a 5k would be a good experience right now. I've completed 2 training runs of 6+ miles with no problems. Being a new runner ( @57), I'm enjoying trying to push my comfort zone. I started at a pace of 24 and have come down to 14.2 and felt pretty decent about my runs. Now I'm wondering if I will even be allowed to finish. I would like to not embarrass myself but I'm mostly preparing to run the princess in Feb and finish healthy and have fun. Should I pull out of the 5k?

 

[M likes the mouse]

I believe the deadline to submit via email is Dec.1, race must be 10k or longer, chip timed with officially recorded results. If you can't get a time before that date, you can bring proof of time to the expo and they will verify and change your corral on your bib, if your time warrants it, by placing a sticker on your bib over the corral that's printed on it already.

I think I read earlier in the thread that corrals A-D were for people that submitted qualifying times but that corral E might be for people that had registered early, that submitted an unqualifying time or people that had already ran in a Run Disney event.
Does anyone knows if i should send my TOT times for better corral placement? I ran TOT in 2h41 minutes, which means 16,08 mm, but wrote I tought of finishing in 2h50m the phm. So would it help me sending that time because it would prove that I can go the distance or would it put me at the back of the pack because I finished slightly outside of the time limit?

Thanks a lot!

 

[Cripey]

I think I read earlier in the thread that corrals A-D were for people that submitted qualifying times but that corral E might be for people that had registered early, that submitted an unqualifying time or people that had already ran in a Run Disney event.
Does anyone knows if i should send my TOT times for better corral placement? I ran TOT in 2h41 minutes, which means 16,08 mm, but wrote I tought of finishing in 2h50m the phm. So would it help me sending that time because it would prove that I can go the distance or would it put me at the back of the pack because I finished slightly outside of the time limit?

Thanks a lot!

You only need to submit a time if it will have you finishing the half in 2:45 or less. As far as how the corrals are assigned behind those that have submitted proof of time, I have no idea if what you read was correct or just speculation.

 

[PrincessV]

Should I pull out of the 5k?

NO!!! Don't worry about your time (I know - easier said than done!). Think of it strictly as gaining race-day experience. You can do it!
(ETA: LOL, whoops, I initially typed "YES" meaning yes, you should still run it, not yes you should pull out!)

I just found out about these boards yesterday at a half I did, in Wilmington, NC.

Glad to have found you.

Welcome aboard - this is such a great group!

But after taking time off, it's tough to start up again without overdoing it and wanting to be right back where I was. So I've been doing short slow distances just to get back into it but I really want to be faster and further. But I just have to remember that if I do too much too soon I'll be right back where I was and it'll ruin my chances at finishing and doing well.

I hear ya. It's been very hard for me to go from running double digits to crapping out at 2 miles. But you're right-on: best not push too hard and wind up in worse shape.

I'm on the mend but not there yet and I would rather be able to run the PHM in a worse corral than not be physically able to do it at all. You know? I know it's frustrating but you have to take care of your body if you want it to keep letting you do these things. It took a lot of mentally beating-myself-up for me to give up the 15K yesterday but it was the right call as much as I wish it wasn't.

I'll echo Princess on the Run and attest - I pushed too far and wound up in worse shape than if I'd just taken care of my problem when it first hit. Don't be me!

Well, my glass-slipper running shoes haven't hit the pavement in over a week. I got really sick last week on monday morning and I'm just now starting to feel normal and have about 75% of my appetite back...normally I'm a bottomless pit! I'm scheduled to run tomorrow, so we'll see how that goes. Oh well...on the brighter side, the BF and I couldn't resist booking a very last minute Thanksgiving trip to the World!

Ugh, I'm so sorry you're been sick. No fun. But YAY for Thanksgiving WDW-style! We'll be there, too, as has become our tradition. Fun for all and no one cooks - perfect!

Anyone have races this weekend?

Any word on when power might be back? Still sending lots and lots of good thoughts up there!

Yep, I've got the Jingle Jungle 5K this weekend (the W&D 5K) with my son.

On the bright side you have been training at least... I can't still waiting for my Dr to release me to run again which won't be till at least the 19th of Nov. I haven't run since July before my surgery but I do walk 7 miles a day and have lost 30 pounds, hoping that helps. I will only have 8 weeks for the Tinkerbell and 12 weeks till he Princess.

I think all of that walking will really pay off for you! I can't imagine how frustrating it must feel to be off running for so long. Hang in there - it's almost done!

 

[PrincessV]

I really need to work on a blog post, but until then...

I had a deep-tissue massage last Thurs. Meh. It didn't seem to help much and left me even tighter than before.

Tried to fake-out my Saturday long run curse by going later in the day. Nope; ITBS pain still nailed me at 2 miles.

Saw a chiropractor today... she's a freaking miracle worker!!!
She treats a bunch of runners with ITBS, was able to pinpoint exactly from where mine's stemming, and after 20 mins of adjustments and targeted massage, I walked out feeling better than I have in months!

Still... my brain is fried. Too many runs filled with anxiety and worry about when and if pain will strike. So I'm taking a break, going back to walking, ballet, yoga - things that will keep me fit but aren't filled with fear and stress about my stupid leg. At least a week, maybe two. We'll see how it goes.

I've still got the 5K at WDW this weekend, but I'm willing to walk the whole thing. No pressure is the name of the game for a while.

 

[MRS AR]

Thanks PrincessV for the encouragement i guess I'm afraid a serious runner would think why is SHE even out running. I'll post how it goes.

 

[rosermama]

Thanks PrincessV for the encouragement i guess I'm afraid a serious runner would think why is SHE even out running. I'll post how it goes.

Don't worry about those around you. Focus on yourself and keeping a pace that is good for you. You will do great, its only just over 3 miles you CAN do it and I bet you will suprise yourself at how well you do!!!

Best wishes and good luck

Sent from my SAMSUNG Galaxy Note using DISBoards

 

[rosermama]

@PrincessV thanks for the encouragement I have had some bad days lately crying in frustration since I have the Tinkerbell also and I am stressing it but my loving husband just keeps telling me as long as I finish it doesn't matter how long it took.

But hearing encouragement from others is great that's why I love these boards.

Plus I have lost 30 pounds and plan to lose 30 pounds more before the race that's like not carrying a sack of flour around.

Sent from my SAMSUNG Galaxy Note using DISBoards

 

[PrincessV]

Thanks PrincessV for the encouragement i guess I'm afraid a serious runner would think why is SHE even out running. I'll post how it goes.

I totally get that... I'm feeling the same way about a 10K I've got just a couple weeks before the Princess Half. Seriously - if I can't nail a 10K by then, I've got no business running the Princess, but I'm totally intimidated by what sounds like a "serious" race! We just have to remember that ANYONE who runs is a runner and we're all in it to encourage and support each other.

 

[Gryhndmom]

Now I'm getting even more nervous about my 1st ever 5k this Saturday. I am on week 5 of Galloway's 13.1 and thought a 5k would be a good experience right now. I've completed 2 training runs of 6+ miles with no problems. Being a new runner ( @57), I'm enjoying trying to push my comfort zone. I started at a pace of 24 and have come down to 14.2 and felt pretty decent about my runs. Now I'm wondering if I will even be allowed to finish. I would like to not embarrass myself but I'm mostly preparing to run the princess in Feb and finish healthy and have fun. Should I pull out of the 5k?

Do the 5K...I am also what I think is slow at about a 12:45 pace per mile and I also didn't start running until May. I have done two 5k races and finished at around my usual pace with folks ahead of me and behind me. Don't get discouraged by others on the thread you might be doing a 5K race in 30 min or so as they have been at this lots longer. If you are worried about them not letting you finish ask if there is a time limit.

 

[jodipaige2004]

Thanks PrincessV for the encouragement i guess I'm afraid a serious runner would think why is SHE even out running. I'll post how it goes.

Just do it for the experience! Most races are fun and there all runners of all shapes and sizes and speeds - and I find runners to be so supportive. Don't be put off by a couple of "serious road races". These are not the norm...and also not as much fun!!! My friend Alana was at the end with the police car on her butt and she felt great at the finish. She pushed as hard as she could and was proud of her time - she worked hard for it! And I was proud to run her in. She worked harder for that finish than many of the faster runners! Just remember, whether it is a 7-minute mile or a 14-minute mile: it is still a mile!

Jodi
www.2princessesontherun.wordpress.com
www.facebook.com/2princessesontherun

 

[princessallegra]

Does anyone know what time Pasta in the Park tickets get you into Epcot that Friday night? The dinner says 6:30-8:30, but I am wondering what time they let you into the park

 

[MoonFaerie]

Thanks PrincessV for the encouragement i guess I'm afraid a serious runner would think why is SHE even out running. I'll post how it goes.

We'll see how I feel when (if?) I get to run my 10k in 2.5 weeks, but I mostly don't care what others think. I'm slow. I had gotten down just below a 15 min mile, but when I started running longer distances, I found that longer run intervals with less walking feel better. Now I'm back up to a mid 15 min mile. Considering that just 3 months ago week 1 day 1 of C25K felt like it was going to kill me, I'm thrilled with being able to easily do 5/1 intervals for 6.5 miles, no matter how slow I am.

I've got a friend from way back in middle school that just ran his 1st marathon. This race I'm doing was his first ever race just last year. He's been a great support and cheerleader for me, and he has offered to run with me, even if I have to walk the whole thing..

 

[bskelly07]

I believe the deadline to submit via email is Dec.1, race must be 10k or longer, chip timed with officially recorded results. If you can't get a time before that date, you can bring proof of time to the expo and they will verify and change your corral on your bib, if your time warrants it, by placing a sticker on your bib over the corral that's printed on it already.

I usually try and pace at 10-11 minute miles.. Is it worth finding a time chip race in my city to submit pace requirements to disney? I've debated it, but I don't know if I should. Will it help my corral placement? I guess I don't really know how their placement works. Advice pleaseee!

 

[Cripey]

I usually try and pace at 10-11 minute miles.. Is it worth finding a time chip race in my city to submit pace requirements to disney? I've debated it, but I don't know if I should. Will it help my corral placement? I guess I don't really know how their placement works. Advice pleaseee!

a 10-11 min. mile will have you finishing well under the 2:45 limit that requires proof...I would definintely submit a time if you can that reflects that if you plan to run the Princess at that pace. If you don't, you'll be behind all those that did submit a time, and a good percentage of those will be slower than you (including me!)...meaning you'll spend alot of time weaving in and out of those runners...adding to your total distance and I would imagine being a little frustrated. I'd definitely recommend it, just so you'll be placed in a corral with others that are around the same speed...works out better for you and the more people that are corralled correctly, the smoother the entire race goes for everyone.

 

[bskelly07]

a 10-11 min. mile will have you finishing well under the 2:45 limit that requires proof...I would definintely submit a time if you can that reflects that if you plan to run the Princess at that pace. If you don't, you'll be behind all those that did submit a time, and a good percentage of those will be slower than you (including me!)...meaning you'll spend alot of time weaving in and out of those runners...adding to your total distance and I would imagine being a little frustrated. I'd definitely recommend it, just so you'll be placed in a corral with others that are around the same speed...works out better for you and the more people that are corralled correctly, the smoother the entire race goes for everyone.

Oh duh, that would make sense. Haha I feel silly for even asking now. I found a 10k with chip time for dec 2nd. Lame that it's the day after the email cut off! But it's okay. I'll just bring it with me. Wish me luuuuck!

 

[christinascreative]

Glad you're safe!!! Hoppefully your power will be restored ASAP!

I'm running the Color Run (5k) this weekend with a group of friends...I actaully keep forgetting about it, so thanks for the reminder. I need to run to the store for a white shirt!

Thanks for the good thoughts! Good luck in your race!! I hear the Color Run is a fun one!

Any word on when power might be back? Still sending lots and lots of good thoughts up there!

Yep, I've got the Jingle Jungle 5K this weekend (the W&D 5K) with my son.

Thanks. No real word. We heard if we don't have it by Wed then it could be 7 -21 days more. Then on the power company's site, it says 1000 people in my town will be restored tomorrow (the majority). Who knows though?
That should also be a fun run! I wish I was in Disney now
How old is your son? My niece is 5 and wants to run races now that I'm running which is sweet but I'm thinking she may be too young. How young is too young?

 

[Cripey]

Oh duh, that would make sense. Haha I feel silly for even asking now. I found a 10k with chip time for dec 2nd. Lame that it's the day after the email cut off! But it's okay. I'll just bring it with me. Wish me luuuuck!

Oh bummer, ONE day! Oh well...I've never had mine changed at packet pick up before, but I hear it doesn't seem to be that much of a hassle at all. Definitely worth it at your pace though!

 

[debbieandroo]

Thanks PrincessV for the encouragement i guess I'm afraid a serious runner would think why is SHE even out running. I'll post how it goes.

Okay, I completely know how you feel. Back in July, I signed up for a 10-race series sponsored by our local runner's club. And I was planning to walk all of the races. The night before the first race [a 5K], I was so nervous - convinced that everyone would know, just by looking at me, that I wasn't a 'real athlete' and 'what is *she* doing here anyway?'

The morning of the race I was tempted to back out, especially after I saw a bunch of young and skinny runner-types heading to the start line. The more I looked, though, I noticed not-so-young and not-so-skinny types in the mix. The race started and lots of folks zoomed ahead of me - surprisingly, some of the ones who had looked not-very-fast whizzed past me and some of the skinny, young ones were actually behind slow-walking me. Whoa!

Of that 10 race series, I've completed 9 of them so far. And I've walked all of them. I've walked past runners and have been lapped by some walkers -- you really can't tell just by looking at people just how fast they may be. And, whatever race I've done, I have received so much support and encouragement from all of the runners and walkers and volunteers. And these are some hard core racers - both the runners and the walkers.

All that to say, please don't be self-conscious of your perceived lack of ability. You are doing so well!!!! And you're not racing against anyone except yourself.

If it makes you feel better, you can go to your race's website and view last year's results. Seeing the times of others always makes me feel a bit better. You can also view the participants' list for this year so you can see how many people will be there. 5Ks are generally more for the fun and fundraising than for speed so you will be in the company of many who are just there to be with their friends. If a lot of people are signed up, you'll know there will be a good mix of runners and walkers.

Most of all, have a blast -- I've come to enjoy races, who'd a thunk it? Lil ole couch potato me!

 

[AnotherPrincess]

Okay, I completely know how you feel. Back in July, I signed up for a 10-race series sponsored by our local runner's club. And I was planning to walk all of the races. The night before the first race [a 5K], I was so nervous - convinced that everyone would know, just by looking at me, that I wasn't a 'real athlete' and 'what is *she* doing here anyway?'

The morning of the race I was tempted to back out, especially after I saw a bunch of young and skinny runner-types heading to the start line. The more I looked, though, I noticed not-so-young and not-so-skinny types in the mix. The race started and lots of folks zoomed ahead of me - surprisingly, some of the ones who had looked not-very-fast whizzed past me and some of the skinny, young ones were actually behind slow-walking me. Whoa!

Of that 10 race series, I've completed 9 of them so far. And I've walked all of them. I've walked past runners and have been lapped by some walkers -- you really can't tell just by looking at people just how fast they may be. And, whatever race I've done, I have received so much support and encouragement from all of the runners and walkers and volunteers. And these are some hard core racers - both the runners and the walkers.

All that to say, please don't be self-conscious of your perceived lack of ability. You are doing so well!!!! And you're not racing against anyone except yourself.

If it makes you feel better, you can go to your race's website and view last year's results. Seeing the times of others always makes me feel a bit better. You can also view the participants' list for this year so you can see how many people will be there. 5Ks are generally more for the fun and fundraising than for speed so you will be in the company of many who are just there to be with their friends. If a lot of people are signed up, you'll know there will be a good mix of runners and walkers.

Most of all, have a blast -- I've come to enjoy races, who'd a thunk it? Lil ole couch potato me!

I'll echo all of this. There are lots of serious runners around here and it can be very intimidating. In the beginning I just knew everyone was looking at me wondering what I think I'm doing. I didn't care though because I'm doing this for me. One morning I was at our local park that is always packed with runners and bikers on the weekends. That day was one such packed day. I was doing a little stretching and a guy started stretching beside me. He asked which running group I was with. I looked around me thinking he was surely talking to someone else. But no, it was me. I was shocked that a serious athlete thought I looked like a runner. It was a mental turning point for me.