Disneyland 10k
Most hotels are walking distance, but Disney also provides a shuttle to take runners to the start line. After getting through security, there is pre-run water, bag check, entertainment, and plenty of port-o-potties at multiple locations. I don't like to mess around too much and cut it close getting to my corral, so I got there with some time to spare.
Night race? No, just dark at 5:30 AM! |
I really like 10k races in general and this is a great course. Runners travel out onto the surrounding streets (not much entertainment here) and wind their way back toward the parks. The back half of the race is spent running through Disneyland and California Adventure before hitting Downtown Disney and crossing the finish line.
Aladdin themed finish line! |
One down, one to go! |
The Half Marathon starts at the same place and same time as the 10k, which simplifies planning for sure! I was a little sore this morning after the 10k and a full day on my feet at the parks, so I just decided to cruise and enjoy this one.
Love the classic Disneyland vibe! |
The half marathon starts on Disney property with nearly the first four miles taking you through both theme parks. There were lots of character appearances here, from Pinocchio to Aurora to Storm Troopers, and there really was something for everyone.
And I have to hand it to Disney, once we got outside the parks, they made sure that we had plenty to look at as we made our way around the streets of Anaheim - hundreds of classic cars, marching bands, hula dancers. Urban streets and strip malls don't make for the most scenic runs, but there was a good amount of on-course entertainment. One of the best parts of this race is running around the warning track of Angel Stadium right around miles 9/10 (you also run by the Honda Center, home of the Anaheim Ducks).
You run through a tunnel up to the field and hear the crowd cheering for you - it's a pretty neat experience. And once you get out of the stadium, you know you're headed home! One of the other great points of the race this year was the number of aid stations. Once you hit mile 9, they increased in frequency, popping up about every mile. That may seem insignificant sitting here, but let me tell you it can make a big difference!
So here's the bottom line:
Run This Race If: you love Disney, want a race "experience," want great swag and medals, like a really entertaining course, want to dress up, and/or can easily get to the California area
Course: Mostly flat, mostly roads, but footing can vary in the parks, half marathon also has a stretch of gravel/sand around Angel Stadium, has staggered start corrals
What Makes it Unique: DISNEYLAND (Walt's creation, classic feel), changing 10k theme every year, bonus medals, Coast to Coast challenge opportunity, very welcoming race even if you're not that fast or experienced
Cost: Pricey, 2016 rates were $120 (10k), $205 (half marathon), $350 (Dumbo Double Dare), $80 (5k), and $20 (kids races) - to me, it's totally worth it for the experience you get
Date and Time: Labor Day Weekend, 5:30 AM starts
Would I do It Again? Absolutely!
I think this would be more enjoyable that WDW, which I've done, since you get to run through Anaheim. More to look at. But $205 for a half marathon? Come on, man!
ReplyDeleteI know! And there has been a ton of chatter about the rising costs of these races. I have to say though that I've never regretted the money I've spent doing runDisney events. I'm hooked :)
DeleteThe $350 double dare is $25 more than doing the 10k and half sans bonus medal. So I guess you're basically buying your bonus medal and is there a bonus shirt? Looks like fun but that's rich for my blood.
ReplyDeleteYes you're right, $25 for the bonus medal and bonus shirt. I know it's expensive, but it makes me happy - I guess we all have our things that we save for and splurge on :)
DeleteLove Disney challenges!!! I will never go back to just the half!
ReplyDeleteYou sure won't as long as you keep running with me!! They really do make it even more fun :)
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