Disney Cast Member Assists Duo During runDisney Race
The Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend is underway, and we’ve got a heartwarming story to share. Let’s take a look at how a Cast Member became a guide for an unstoppable duo during their runDisney race.
Cast Member Joan
Disney Parks Blog recently shared Cast Member, Joan Doyle’s runDisney story. In 2011, she participated in her first race, the Disney Princess 5K.
One event was all it took. After that, she was hooked!
Joan has participated in multiple run Disney half-marathons over a span of about ten years. She even ran a 10k and a half marathon for the inaugural Wine and Dine weekend.
Participating in these events takes perseverance and determination. Joan shares, “Waking up at 2 AM to run is rough. But there’s a purpose to it. The courses are all so beautiful. I love seeing the characters as I run by.”
She goes on to say, “The comradery of the runners is amazing. If you need encouragement, people will lift you up. If you trip and fall, someone is there to help you. It’s a very empowering community to be a part of.”
runDisney Guide
Joan met a new friend, Jennifer this year. Jennifer would be participating in a runDisney race with her service dog, Sulley.
Jennifer asked Joan if she’d consider accompanying the duo as their guide. Guides take on the role of protecting service dogs during the race.
This allows runners like Jennifer to be able to focus on running. Joan helped Sulley “avoid other runners and point out the reflectors on the road.”
Joan thoroughly enjoyed joining Jennifer and Sulley on their journey and working as a team. So much so, this particular race was one of her most memorable.
Joan concludes, “I just loved the companionship between the three of us. Being able to run together as a team was awesome! Crossing the finish line is always an accomplishment but this was a truly special experience.”
There’s no better way to start out an eventful race weekend than with an inspiring story. Happy runDisney Weekend, racers!