What's Crazier Than Running a Marathon?
Walt Disney World's Goofy Race and a Half Challenge
Sep 5, 2009
According to MarathonGuide.com, approximately 400,000 people finished a marathon in 2007. A few thousand of these die-hard racers were competing in the Goofy Race and a Half Challenge at Walt Disney World. This race, now in its fifth year, consists of a half marathon run on Saturday, followed by a full marathon on Sunday.
Disney definitely knows how to put on a race. Where else can you run with more than 20,000 of your closest friends? The full marathon is in its 17th year. Its 26.2 mile course takes athletes through all four of the Walt Disney World theme parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom. Crowd support along the course is phenomenal with cast members, Disney characters and fans lining much of the route. The January half marathon started in 1998 and takes racers through Magic Kingdom and EPCOT. Disney's Endurance Series also includes a half marathon at Disneyland, a princess-themed half marathon at Disney World in march and even triathlons.
Goofy Challenge Race Registration
Few are willing (or perhaps, insane enough) to take on this challenge. Out of nearly 20,000 racers each for both the half and full, only about 5,000 registered for Goofy in 2009. Rumor has it 7500 racers will be competing in the Goofy in 2010. The 2010 registration fee is $285, about $40 more than registering individually.
Registration usually opens in January and fills up quickly. There are often race spots available with charity and travel groups after official registration closes.
Disney Race Medals: It's All About the Bling
Athletes who finish both races in the allotted time receive a finisher's medal. The half marathon has a Donald Duck medal, whereas the coveted Mickey Mouse medal represents the full marathon finishers. Goofy participants receive both of these, plus a separate Goofy-themed medal. There is purported to be a special medal for the 2010 race to commemorate the fifth anniversary.
Disney Marathon Time Limits
Disney races usually offer a generous time limit for finishers, making them good races for beginners or first-timers. Half marathoners must finish under 3.5 hours, while the full marathoners are allotted 7 hours to finish. This works out to be a 16 minute per mile pace, fairly comfortable for runners and walkers alike. Athletes must finish both races within the official time limits to get their Goofy medal. Goofy participants receive a special armband and report to Goofy tents at the finish of each race to record their official results.
Preparing for Races in Florida
Weather is often part of the challenge and the one thing Disney can't control. Marathon weekend takes place in January when Florida weather can be unpredictable. Competitors in 2006 woke up to temperatures in the 30s while the past few years have seen starting temperatures in the mid to high 60s with high humidity. An athlete's best bet is to watch the long-term forecast prior to the race and prepare for anything!
Goofy's Race and a Half Challenge offers a unique experience for competitors and recreational athletes alike. For those who can't quite get enough, there's also a 5K on Friday. This trifecta is unofficially referred to by enthusiasts as the "Dopey". After all, what's another 3.1 miles when you're already planning to run 39.3?
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