Next Week is Marathon Week at Disney World. Here’s What You Need To Know.
On January 9th, the first MASSIVE runDisney event of the year kicks off at Walt Disney World. Whether you’re are planning on participating or will be on your family vacation during this time, its good to know what to expect.
Here’s a quick rundown of how next week is shaping up!
The first race kicks off on the morning of Thursday, January 9th. During this time it is business as usual at the theme parks. However, guests may encounter roped off areas for race paths. Most of the races begin at 5:30 am with the actual Walt Disney World Marathon itself kicking off at 5:30 am.
Here’s a closer look at the race schedule:
Races
Thursday, January 9th — Walt Disney World 5K
- 3.1 miles
- Suitable for families and beginning runners as well as more experienced athletes.
Friday, January 10th — Walt Disney World 10K
- 6.2 miles
- Participants must maintain a minimum pace of 16 minutes-per-mile.
Saturday, Jan. 11 — Walt Disney World Half Marathon
- 13.1 miles
- Participants must maintain a minimum pace of 16 minutes-per-mile.
- Proof of time from a previous race is required for a starting corral placement.
Sunday, Jan. 12 — Walt Disney World Marathon
- 26.2 miles
- Participants must maintain a minimum pace of 16 minutes-per-mile.
- Proof of time from a previous race is required for a starting corral placement.
What Do You Win?
For guests competing in the races above, here’s a breakdown of what you get for participating:
Walt Disney World 5K
- 5K Finisher Medal
- On-Course and Post-Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Personalized Race Bib
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
Walt Disney World 10K
- 10K Finisher Medal
- On-Course and Post-Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Personalized Race Bib
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
Walt Disney World Half Marathon
- Half Marathon Finisher Medal
- On-Course and Post-Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Personalized Race Bib
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
Walt Disney World Marathon
- Marathon Finisher Medal
- On-Course and Post-Race Refreshments
- Participant Shirt
- Personalized Race Bib
- Virtual Goody Bag
- Mickey Mouse Finisher Ear Hat
- Downloadable Finisher Certificate
Quick Tip: Runners have the option of staying in the park after you’ve crossed the finish line. So if you have the stamina grab a dole whip and head to Splash Mountain to cool off!
Merchandise
Be sure to bring some spending money as Marathon Weekend is known for having some pretty awesome merchandise. As we previously shared here on MickeyBlog, the runDisney Expo will be taking place at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex throughout the weekend. The Expo is free and open to the public. Runners should also visit the expo prior to competing to pick up your bibs, shirts and other merchandise. You’ll also find a wide range of fitness, nutrition, technology and athletic brands in attendance.
Give your runner a ch’EAR! Check out all you need to know for spectating the 2020 #WDWMarathon Weekend:
— runDisney (@runDisney) December 30, 2019
Spectator’s Guide
If your Walt Disney World plans for next week include cheering the runners on from the sidelines then the spectator’s guide above provides you with everything you need to know to make the most out of your visit!
With less then four days to go until Marathon Week officially kicks off, guests are encouraged to keep following along with MickeyBlog for the latest Walt Disney World news and updates!
Thinking about a visit to Disney in 2020? Getting started couldn’t be easier! Fill out our form below to get your FREE, no-obligation quote! Book before January 31, 2020 and I’ll even throw in a Disney gift card!
Find articles like this helpful? Then why not consider working with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner? As an agent with MickeyTravels, I’ll be on hand to assist you with everything from finding your perfect package to helping you plan lots of special touches to make your visit truly magical. I’ll even scout to make sure you’re getting the best discounts (even after you’ve booked!) Best of all my services are absolutely FREE. Get in touch at 1.800.801.4025 via email at mroden@mickeytravels.com or follow along on Facebook
Source: ClickOrlando.com
