The New *Official 2013 Disney Princess Half Marathon Thread*

[disneyaway]

airfare makes me CRAZY these days! It wasn't that long ago that I could get over to Orlando for right at $200 just about any time I wanted to go...$250 MAX. In the last year, I'm doing good to find it under $350. Ridiculous! And it's forced me to stop being airline-loyal like I always have been...and don't even get me started on the baggage fees! We just bought our air for the ToT 10-miler ($320 ), next up is tix to DL for Tinker Bell and THEN tix for Princess. Um, sorry friends and family...Christmas is cancelled this year because I have to go to Disney!

I'm signed up with Kayak and Airfare Watchdog to watch prices to Orlando and Orange County for me...in the past, those two have always alerted me to fare sales and helped me save a few $$.

Have you found a good flight from Houston to LA? I am having to fly out of Hobby for Tink and the southwest prices are crazy. I can't get a ticket for less than 400- my mom is flying into LAX next week and it's costing her $300. I am debating driving from Clear Lake to IAH if the prices are cheaper

 

[Cripey]

Have you found a good flight from Houston to LA? I am having to fly out of Hobby for Tink and the southwest prices are crazy. I can't get a ticket for less than 400- my mom is flying into LAX next week and it's costing her $300. I am debating driving from Clear Lake to IAH if the prices are cheaper

Nope, not yet. I live in the woodlands, so always prefer IAH to Hobby, so I don't end up flying SWA very much, but if the price difference is significant, I'll drive out to Hobby. We also always try to fly into SNA rather than LAX because it's so much closer and easier. We've found that the difference in price for the flights would end up being made up, and then some, in transportation costs from LA into Anaheim. But, we do always check LAX in case we can find a great deal....a $100 difference might be worth it! My BF has a cousin living in LA now, so if we find a good fare, we may bribe him to pick us up and take us to Anaheim this time

 

[MoonFaerie]

That. Is. Fabulous. I am leaning toward an Aurora costume. I'll look for you and we'll get some fantastic pictures! Now, if only we could convince someone to dress up as Prince Philip...

I'm going to wait until closer to actually put it together and see what size I am. (I've been in between sizes for ever. I'm hoping to get down that size, and there's nothing that's more irritating when I'm running than too big clothes.)

This is what I have in mind though.


maleficent_running_costume by Nicole Hensley Photography, on Flickr

 

[PrincessV]

Since you ladies are so supportive, I thought I would share my weight loss progress:
I have gone from 306 lbs to 254 lbs since October and have lost 99 lbs total!!! Or one of the Olsen twins So excited to post this! Only 107 more lbs to go to my goal of 147 lbs.

WTG Annette - awesome work!!!

I don't know that it would be necessary to get up to 14. If you do the half in December, you will obviously be in shape for a half. Most half plans only go up to 10 miles for the long runs so I would think if you did 10-11 miles every other week you would be okay...

...Last year I did a Halloween half. After that, I cut my long runs back down to 6 miles and built back up from there again and that seemed to work fine.

Thanks Amy - that's really good to hear! Can I throw you (and anyone else willing to chime in!) another question? Once you've hit a distance - let's say 14 - and cut back, do the "rules" of only adding 10% each time still apply? I mean, if you've already conditioned yourself up to 14, is it worse to cut back to, say, 6 and then go back up to 10 the next time than to stay around the same higher mileage?

I will say that the first year, Julie and I decided to run separately b/c it was my first half and even though I knew I would be stopping for pics, I still wanted to kind of "see what I could do". I finished in 2:42. It was fun, but I felt there was something missing, especially when I crossed the finish line.

^ THIS is exactly what concerns me!

This is what I have in mind though.


maleficent_running_costume by Nicole Hensley Photography, on Flickr

LOVE it!

 

[TheSpooph]

You ladies are such an inspiration and so on top of it! Between the weight loss (which is fantastic!) and the costume ideas (which are amazing!), I feel behind! Of course, my mom has big ideas for me -- she wants me to dress up as Princess Daisy complete with the extra fluffy duck bottom from the 3rd grade... When I explained that I didn't think it would work well while running, she calmly told me to just wear suspenders and it would be fine!

 

[samc]

I'm going to wait until closer to actually put it together and see what size I am. (I've been in between sizes for ever. I'm hoping to get down that size, and there's nothing that's more irritating when I'm running than too big clothes.)

This is what I have in mind though.


maleficent_running_costume by Nicole Hensley Photography, on Flickr

Your costume is AMAZING!!! I'm planning to dress as sleeping beauty so I'll be on the look out for you!

 

[Princess2013]

After registering I became more and more concerned about my time. A few years back I sustained a stress fracture while running and do not want to repeat it so I will be walking. I am really motivated to participate in the fun. Could I hear a few words of encouragement that it is possible to walk the whole way and not be swept? Worse case scenario, do those who get swept get anything for participating?

 

[SuperHappyFunTimes]

Your costume is AMAZING!!! I'm planning to dress as sleeping beauty so I'll be on the look out for you!

u[/QUOTE]



I love it!! I'm so torn on a costume. Belle, Merida, or Mulan... I love all three characters, so it's a matter of which will be do-able costume wise. Do you think Belle & Merida will be too popular? I've got a big mess of brown hair that I was considering dyeing red and curling for Merida...

I got my 3 miles in on the treadmill today, 35 minutes at a 2/2 interval. My right shin had been a little tender but it feels great today. I bought some compression calf sleeves to try out Sunday. The sales lady measured my calf but I'm not sure they're tight enough.

I'm sticking to 3 miles for a while until I get my intervals down to 3R/1W or better..
All these airfare posts make me extra grateful that I only live 2 hours away. Of course, that makes a coast to coast a lot less likely. Hope those fares go down!

 

[TheSpooph]

Sounds like there are lots of princessess... I'm pretty certain I will be dressing up as Tinkerbell. I already have the blonde hair and I think a tutu/wings combo would be a blast. Plus its DD's favorite Disney character! Anyone else thinking about a fairy? DH keeps talking about dressing up as Terrance, but I'm not holding my breath quite yet!!

 

[acourtwdw]

After registering I became more and more concerned about my time. A few years back I sustained a stress fracture while running and do not want to repeat it so I will be walking. I am really motivated to participate in the fun. Could I hear a few words of encouragement that it is possible to walk the whole way and not be swept? Worse case scenario, do those who get swept get anything for participating?

I know someone who got swept at the Wine and Dine and still got the finishers medal.

 

[MaMa3Princess]

Just wanted to give my little unprofessional but bit of experience.
If you are a fairly decent, injury free runner training to 10 will work but if you are on the more cautious or newer side at least 11 to 12 at minimal. There is a huge difference between 10 and 13.1. Especially when the only major incline in the race is at 11. By 10, I was over it and just wanted to finish. By 12 body parts were numb. It was my first and I started out way too fast did a lot of new running mistakes. But like Amy, I wanted to see what I could do. I did not enjoy the course as I should. But this time I will stop and smell the roses and soak it all in. I trained to 12 last year and had a step down week of 6. Then I tapered. Just factor in that if you train to 10 you are not taking into account the walk to your corral. Afterwards if you are waiting for the bus or even going to your car. I caught a cramp in my lower back because I say down and ate my post run snack.
I wish I had a better story to tell but I just made a lot of new runner mistakes, so long story short, if you are new and you still want a life after the race, it may be beneficial to train past 10.

 

[samc]

Just wanted to give my little unprofessional but bit of experience.
If you are a fairly decent, injury free runner training to 10 will work but if you are on the more cautious or newer side at least 11 to 12 at minimal. There is a huge difference between 10 and 13.1. Especially when the only major incline in the race is at 11. By 10, I was over it and just wanted to finish. By 12 body parts were numb. It was my first and I started out way too fast did a lot of new running mistakes. But like Amy, I wanted to see what I could do. I did not enjoy the course as I should. But this time I will stop and smell the roses and soak it all in. I trained to 12 last year and had a step down week of 6. Then I tapered. Just factor in that if you train to 10 you are not taking into account the walk to your corral. Afterwards if you are waiting for the bus or even going to your car. I caught a cramp in my lower back because I say down and ate my post run snack.
I wish I had a better story to tell but I just made a lot of new runner mistakes, so long story short, if you are new and you still want a life after the race, it may be beneficial to train past 10.

Thank you! I am new to running so that type of info & advice is much needed & appreciated

 

[VickiHD]

Sounds like there are lots of princessess... I'm pretty certain I will be dressing up as Tinkerbell. I already have the blonde hair and I think a tutu/wings combo would be a blast. Plus its DD's favorite Disney character! Anyone else thinking about a fairy? DH keeps talking about dressing up as Terrance, but I'm not holding my breath quite yet!!

For me it's all about Tink the month before at the Tinker Bell 1/2 marathon. I do believe wearing wings does help with ones time.

Once that race is over it's all about the Princesses for me and my tiara.

 

[kayleesmomxo]

Just wanted to give my little unprofessional but bit of experience.
If you are a fairly decent, injury free runner training to 10 will work but if you are on the more cautious or newer side at least 11 to 12 at minimal. There is a huge difference between 10 and 13.1. Especially when the only major incline in the race is at 11. By 10, I was over it and just wanted to finish. By 12 body parts were numb. It was my first and I started out way too fast did a lot of new running mistakes. But like Amy, I wanted to see what I could do. I did not enjoy the course as I should. But this time I will stop and smell the roses and soak it all in. I trained to 12 last year and had a step down week of 6. Then I tapered. Just factor in that if you train to 10 you are not taking into account the walk to your corral. Afterwards if you are waiting for the bus or even going to your car. I caught a cramp in my lower back because I say down and ate my post run snack.
I wish I had a better story to tell but I just made a lot of new runner mistakes, so long story short, if you are new and you still want a life after the race, it may be beneficial to train past 10.

Thank you so much for this post! I'm a new runner and this is really helpful information!

 

[debbieandroo]

Since you ladies are so supportive, I thought I would share my weight loss progress:
I have gone from 306 lbs to 254 lbs since October and have lost 99 lbs total!!! Or one of the Olsen twins So excited to post this! Only 107 more lbs to go to my goal of 147 lbs.

Today I kicked my own butt working out! I would never have thought that I would enjoy getting hot and sweaty as much as I do.

Have a great day everyone
Annette

that's wonderful progress! I love reading these stories!

Congrats!

Weight loss is so hard for me. I've decided this time, I'm not focusing on that. I'll weigh myself and take my measurements once a month, but that's it. At least for a while. I figure if I'm eating better and training for the half, some weight/inches should come off. And if they don't, well, at least I'll be stronger and able to run a half.

My sentiments exactly. I started this as part of a larger long-term lifestyle change - I want to be one of those women in their 80s who is race-walking past those younger runners. It will take a while and may not be too noticeable right now, but will be worth it if I perservere.

After registering I became more and more concerned about my time. A few years back I sustained a stress fracture while running and do not want to repeat it so I will be walking. I am really motivated to participate in the fun. Could I hear a few words of encouragement that it is possible to walk the whole way and not be swept? Worse case scenario, do those who get swept get anything for participating?

Those swept do get medals - I read that from someone who was swept at last year's PHM.

I am planning to walk and, to be honest, can get myself a little stressed out about time, too. Right now, my best time is right at sweeper time [16 minutes/mile]. But it is summer and I still have a few more months to go so I am encouraged that I am on the right track.

Someone started a thread all about walking the PHM. Several walking coaches posted with tons of tips and many words of encouragement - reading that thread was what led to my interest in walking the PHM. Here it is:

http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2808831

I do hope this helps. I signed up for a road race series that includes a couple of 10Ks, 10-milers, and half-marathons. I'm planning to walk them then submit my best time, even if it is slow, to get a chance at an earlier corral. That will provide a better cushion between me and the sweeper bus. Hope I actually follow through with that!

 

[WsPrincess]

After registering I became more and more concerned about my time. A few years back I sustained a stress fracture while running and do not want to repeat it so I will be walking. I am really motivated to participate in the fun. Could I hear a few words of encouragement that it is possible to walk the whole way and not be swept? Worse case scenario, do those who get swept get anything for participating?

As others have said, it seems even those being swept get medals! And you can do this. Just train for it and enjoy it!

 

[bellanotte10]

I have a stupid question ( I know I know one of many) anyone know how to do a cute Merida costume? I don't even know where to start. THere have been such great pictures i've seen and I want to make it look as close to the dress in the movie but as running friendly as possible.

 

[KTE]

I have a stupid question ( I know I know one of many) anyone know how to do a cute Merida costume? I don't even know where to start. THere have been such great pictures i've seen and I want to make it look as close to the dress in the movie but as running friendly as possible.

I found a good picture of Merida on this site

I would start with finding a running tank and skirt in the right color. I would layer the tank over a white long sleeve running shirt and then add in the sleeve pieces which would can tie together using ribbon. Then you can just add a belt- either repurpose one from the thrift store or you can custom make one from pleather.

Hope that helps!

 

[bellanotte10]

I found a good picture of Merida on this site

I would start with finding a running tank and skirt in the right color. I would layer the tank over a white long sleeve running shirt and then add in the sleeve pieces which would can tie together using ribbon. Then you can just add a belt- either repurpose one from the thrift store or you can custom make one from pleather.

Hope that helps!

Thanks! You guys are so awesome.

Also congrats to everyone who posted updates! I'm so proud of all you princesses and once again I can't wait to meet you all!

 

[Nishmom]

Just wanted to give my little unprofessional but bit of experience.
If you are a fairly decent, injury free runner training to 10 will work but if you are on the more cautious or newer side at least 11 to 12 at minimal. There is a huge difference between 10 and 13.1. Especially when the only major incline in the race is at 11. By 10, I was over it and just wanted to finish. By 12 body parts were numb. It was my first and I started out way too fast did a lot of new running mistakes. But like Amy, I wanted to see what I could do. I did not enjoy the course as I should. But this time I will stop and smell the roses and soak it all in. I trained to 12 last year and had a step down week of 6. Then I tapered. Just factor in that if you train to 10 you are not taking into account the walk to your corral. Afterwards if you are waiting for the bus or even going to your car. I caught a cramp in my lower back because I say down and ate my post run snack.
I wish I had a better story to tell but I just made a lot of new runner mistakes, so long story short, if you are new and you still want a life after the race, it may be beneficial to train past 10.

I totally agree. The training plan I've used for the two halfs I've done has two 12 milers. That's enough to make you feel confident that 13.1 is doable without risking overtraining. Knowing you can do that mileage is a mental boost as well as a physical one. Go for it!

Pattie