Disney Marathon Weekend
Fitness Expo, Half Marathon, Marathon and Goofy Challenge Events
Feb 6, 2009
After months of training, logging endless miles, runners join thousands of others to complete their magical journey through the Disney parks. The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is part of the company's yearly series of endurance events.
Runners riding Disney transportation to the race start are treated to an unexpected surprise. The bus enters some behind the scenes areas of Epcot on its way to the drop off location. Participants gather in the tent area, awaiting the big sendoff. Meandering down the pathway to the start line, runners are mesmerized by the waves of bodies awaiting the countdown. The crowd of athletes is speckled with flecks of purple. These singlets signify members of the Team in Training, the world's largest sports training program, who have trained and raised funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. As fireworks blast off above them, runners set off. Along the route they are urged on by cheering spectators, marching bands, deejays and of course, Disney characters. Crossing the finish line brings the overwhelming sense of satisfaction of accomplishing a personal goal.
Half Marathon Course
The starting line is just outside of the Epcot parking lot on Saturday morning. Runners will go 5 miles then enter Magic Kingdom, passing through Tomorrowland. After an exhilarating run through Cinderella's Castle, participants return to Epcot. After passing through Future World to the finish line each runner receives a Donald Duck medal. There are nine beverage stations, one of which includes a food stop.
Marathon Course
There are two starts for the marathon to eliminate congestion early Sunday morning. The courses travel through Epcot and converge at mile 3.4. Runners will continue on to Magic Kingdom, passing through Tomorrowland and through Cinderella's Castle. After leaving Magic Kingdom, participants will make their way to Animal Kingdom near the Expedition Everest attraction. Continuing on a route towards Disney's Wide World of Sports, entrants will enjoy a tour through Hollywood Studios for a great view of the Sorcerer's Hat. Athletes will then enjoy the views of Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resort. The race finishes back at Epcot with each runner receiving a Mickey Mouse medal. There are 22 beverage stations, four with food.
Goofy's Race and a Half Challenge
Those goofy enough to run the half marathon on Saturday and the full marathon on Sunday earn a special Goofy Medal. Enter this event early, as there are strict capacity limits and it sells out early.
Health & Fitness Expo
All participants must attend the expo at Disney's Wide World of Sports in order to receive their bib and race chip. The three day event features celebrity runner appearances, seminars on training, racing and nutrition as well as displays of the latest in running and fitness equipment.
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