RunDisney’s mantra is “every mile is magic.” As a runner who was originally less than enthusiastic about running, I believe every mile is definitely NOT magical. For me, there are times when endorphins soar and running feels like the best thing in the world, and there are times when self-doubt kicks in, and I find myself questioning why I’m doing it. That’s the low point and low points are the furthest thing from magical. But, thankfully, at a RunDisney race, those moments are short-lived, and that’s because we’re surrounded by runners of all ages, sizes, and athletic levels, encouraging one another to keep going. Regardless of whether you’re running along the highway or in the backstage area of Epcot when there’s a moment of doubt, you can look up and see random strangers cheering you on.
This year’s Springtime Surprise Race Weekend is a perfect example of runners supporting runners and how small acts of kindness create the best magical memories.
It Starts at the Race Expo
There’s excitement surrounding race weekend, and it kicks in the moment you arrive at the Race Expo.
That’s where you’ll pick up your race kit and participant shirt, browse the numerous booths of running-related items, and pose for photos with Disney characters.
This year, I arrived at the Expo on Friday, and from the moment I got off the bus, there was energy in the air. People were excited about the upcoming events; there was music playing, sponsors giving out free swag (including noise makers for spectators who were planning to cheer us on), Cast Members giving directions, and runners everywhere! That’s where the first magical moment started. Many of us want a cute photo with our race bib, and having been there solo was no problem; multiple people offered to snap a picture for me.
That small act of kindness has a huge impact on us solo travelers, and for everyone who took time out of their day to help me get a photo, I say, “Thank You!”
Waiting in line at the PhotoPass character spots provided the opportunity to chat with fellow racers and share their excitement. Whether it was their first event or their ninth race, it was nice to hear their stories and the words of encouragement to people striving for their own personal goals on race day. While the conversations may seem like a small part of the day, when I look back on the weekend as a whole, I remember little things like this, the most.
An Early Morning
One thing that can’t be denied is that a RunDisney event means a VERY early morning. Free transportation is provided to the starting line (and from the finish line) for guests staying at a WDW resort. However, that means the busses have to arrive at the starting line with plenty of time before the road closures begin. To ensure that happens without issue, the busses are at the resorts for pick up times between 3:00-3:30am.
That feeling of “Why did I choose to wake up and run this early in the morning?” evaporated the moment I opened my door to head to the bus stop and another magical memory was created. Hanging from the door handle was a small packet, and inside was a note of encouragement, a mini-chocolate bar, and a gift from the Resort Cast Members. This unexpected bit of pixie dust was such a nice treat, and it instantly boosted my excitement for race day.
Speaking of excitement, my energy jumped once I reached the bus stop and saw other runners. Their enthusiasm was contagious, their costumes were fantastic, and with each passing moment, the tired feeling of being up so early in the morning faded.
Pre-Race Festivities and On-Course Fun!
A unique experience that has blasted its way into my long-term memory was the DJ dance party at 4:00 am.
Once the bus arrived at the starting line drop-off area, my energy spiked another few levels from seeing thousands of other runners. Once again, I was amazed at the costumes. There was one runner dressed as Llama Kuzco, and I was in awe of how she managed to run dressed as a Llama.
As I moved with the crowd towards the pre-race area, I noticed more character photo ops and a DJ dance party! A flock of Kevin birds all dancing together was quite the sight to see (and yes, as I was also dressed as Kevin, I joined in on the fun)!
Once in the race corrals, we continued to have music and MCs entertain us, and before long, it was time for the groups to head toward the starting line.
To minimize on-course crowding, the race was released in waves, and I LOVE that each wave had its own countdown and fireworks. Yep, that’s another core memory: fireworks at 5:00a.m. to start a run; it made me feel like a star!
Running through Epcot as the sun began to rise was another magical moment!
Throughout the course were multiple Character Meet and Greets, including some rarer characters like Little John and Lady Mariam from Robinhood, Disney Channel’s Pirate Jake, and even Starlord and Gamora were hanging out in Epcot near Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.
The characters were great to see, yet it was the other on-course entertainment who stole the show! The drummers and the choir near the end of the course were phenomenal; what a great way to wrap up the last mile.
The Strongest Magical Memories
Without question, the strongest magical memories are the people! The runners encouraging other runners throughout the course, the Cast Members cheering us on, and the spectators who didn’t just cheer for the runner they know; they cheered for all of us. These moments not only help propel each of us to keep going, but they remind us that small acts of kindness leave a lasting impact. It's moments like these that I’m thankful to be out there running.
So, no matter the distance or your speed, if you’re debating whether you should participate in a RunDisney event, my answer is YES, you should! Get out there, put some miles on those running shoes and create your own magical memories!
~Kelly