The Ultimate runDisney Guide
Hi there!
I’ve created this guide as a resource for anyone interested in running a runDisney event. Disney has a wonderful racing program for runners of all abilities. However, if you’re new to running, it can feel overwhelming and intimidating. This guide aims to break down everything you need to know and make it easily accessible. There are just two things to know before we get started.
First Thing to Know - runDisney Does What runDisney Wants.
Disney is constantly changing things. I do my best to keep things here up to date but come registration or race day, things may be totally different. That means the information here is subject to change!
Second Thing to Know - Right Now It’s Just Me.
I’m making the guide available here for free because I strongly believe that running should be an inclusive and accessible sport. Access to information is a big part of that. This site is a labor of love I create in my free time. If something doesn’t have a link, it’s coming soon. Thanks for understanding. <3
Alright, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Why runDisney
This section covers everything that makes runDisney weekends special. From runDisney terms like “Balloon Ladies” to a run down of the race day experience, you’ll find everything you need to get started.
runDisney 101
RunDisney Events
There are several runDisney race weekends, and they all offer something a little different. Check out these links for a deep dive on each weekend.
WDW Races
Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend
Princess Half Marathon Weekend
Disneyland - Anaheim Races
Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend
Disneyland Paris Races
Disneyland Paris Races
Virtual Races
Summer Virtual Series
Challenges
In addition to individual race distances offered at runDisney events, each race weekend also offers a challenge option. These Challenges consist of completing 2 or more designated races. If you finish the designated races, you receive an extra challenge medal in honor of the accomplishment. Challenge registrations are their own bib, and the race distances required vary depending on the challenge. There are also challenges that involve completing races at multiple Disney Parks, such as the Coast to Coast challenge which involves a 10miler or more at both Disneyland and Disney World in the same calendar year.
Challenge Overview
Dopey Challenge - Deep Dive
Dopey Blog Posts
Coast to Coast Challenge
Castle to Chateau
Club runDisney
Disney offers a paid club membership for runners. There are multiple tiers and each tier comes with different benefits.
Club runDisney Explained - Coming Soon!
Registration
RunDisney races can sell out instantly. It can be stressful and confusing, but it doesn’t need to be. I cover everything you need to know about how registration works and how to give yourself the best chance at securing a bib. Note, registration is something that has seen a lot of updates. The information here is based on the latest information but things can always change come registration day.
Charity Bibs
Athletes With Disabilities (AWD)
Disney has an Athletes with Disabilities Program that provides support and accommodations for athletes.
Athletes With Disabilities (Everything I Know)
Proof of Time
If you want to be placed in the first few corrals, you can opt to submit the results of a recent race Disney. They will use your race results to verify your pace. If you are fast enough, Disney will ensure you are placed in the first few corrals. This is known as a proof of time. I cover what proof of time is, how to submit yours to Disney, and what it means on race day.
Training
I have lots to talk about here! One thing I love that runDisney does is partner with running coach and former Olympian, Jeff Galloway. As a result, there are free runDisney training guides available on the runDisney website. These guides also incorporate the run-walk method, which is my go-to for every race. In addition to the free guides, I have training templates that follow the galloway program but incorporate planning features like important date call outs.
Jeff Galloway and the Run-Walk Method
How Do the runDisney Plans Differ from Traditional Plans
Downloadable Themed Training Plans with Dates
Let’s Talk Gear
How to Fuel and Hydrate
Where To Stay
Hotel costs are one of the most expensive parts of the race weekend. Disney offers a variety of resort options, but which one do you choose?
Walt Disney World Resort
Picking Where To Stay
Deep Dive of On-Property Hotels
DVC (Disney Vacation Club)
Disneyland Resorts
Picking Where To Stay
Deep Dive of On-Property Hotels
DVC (Disney Vacation Club)
Expo Day
It’s here! You’re ready to toe the start line! But first, you have to grab your bib. Let’s talk about all things Expo Day. We’ll cover the layout of the Expo Area, digital waivers, the virtual queue for merchandise, and even the runDisney Beer Cup.
Expo Day Guide
Race Day
You’ve put in all the training. Now it’s time to log those magical miles.
Be Prepared (Packing List)
Course Etiquette
Example Race Morning Timeline
Ballon Ladies and Sweeping
Related Blog Posts
Photos
One of the big perks of running a runDisney race is the race photos. Nobody grabs race pictures like the Disney Photo Pass team. That being said, there are still some things you can do to help ensure a great shot.
How to Get Great Photos on Course
Race Day Makeup
Downloadable Items
Quick source for all the downloadable goodies.
Training Templates
Packing List