Marathon Weekend 2020

[SheHulk]

I need to ask a stupid question. This is my first runDisney event. I keep looking at the event guide and the maps, and I'm still really confused about the corrals and this "walk-out" to the start line. Is there lots of signage near the start? Will it be pretty obvious where I'm supposed to be? How will I know if they're closing my corral (A)?

I'm planning to be there early enough to figure all this out, but with taper madness creeping in, I'm starting to have worries about knowing where I need to go on race morning. Also having worries about not having enough training, despite having 4 successful 20+ mile runs under my belt

There will be a sea of people heading to the corrals in all likelihood so you should be able to follow everybody else! Try to relax! Have a great time!

 

[michigandergirl]

I need to ask a stupid question. This is my first runDisney event. I keep looking at the event guide and the maps, and I'm still really confused about the corrals and this "walk-out" to the start line. Is there lots of signage near the start? Will it be pretty obvious where I'm supposed to be? How will I know if they're closing my corral (A)?

I'm planning to be there early enough to figure all this out, but with taper madness creeping in, I'm starting to have worries about knowing where I need to go on race morning. Also having worries about not having enough training, despite having 4 successful 20+ mile runs under my belt

Just follow the huge mass of people walking to the corrals (cattle herd). The corrals each have huge light up balloons the corral letters on them. Everything is marked well and there are lots of volunteers around if you have questions.

 

[KSellers88]

I need to ask a stupid question. This is my first runDisney event. I keep looking at the event guide and the maps, and I'm still really confused about the corrals and this "walk-out" to the start line. Is there lots of signage near the start? Will it be pretty obvious where I'm supposed to be? How will I know if they're closing my corral (A)?

I'm planning to be there early enough to figure all this out, but with taper madness creeping in, I'm starting to have worries about knowing where I need to go on race morning. Also having worries about not having enough training, despite having 4 successful 20+ mile runs under my belt

Like others have said, there will be a huge sea of people to follow and tons of signage. This past Wine and Dine weekend I asked the volunteers checking the bibs outside of the corral around what time they planned to close the corrals for the walk to the start line. Then I did my stretching and bathroom visits and walked into the corral around 5 minutes before they told me they would close it. There have been other runners yell out that they are about to close the corral before, but I liked having that time as an estimate to know when to be in the corral. I have missed corral A before and went with corral B and it was no big deal. Just try not to worry and have fun!

 

[Jason Bryer]

In my experience, it depends and is almost 100% dependent on sun, rather than actual temp. I've found that jumping from 40-something one day to 70-something the next to run before sunrise or after sunset has no bearing on how I feel, beyond being more or less sweaty. But 40-something vs. 70-something in full sun is another story entirely, with 70-something hurting a whole lot more. Which makes me think there probably isn't a whole lot I can do to force further acclimatization. But I may roll out tonight in capris and long sleeves (forecast to be near 80) and see what happens!

I completely agree. I was visiting family in Florida for Xmas so I did my last long run (21 miles) on Xmas eve in the mid 80s but it was cloudy. Then was to do a 10 mile run the following Sunday, same temperature, but no clouds and bailed at 7.5 miles into the pool. Just checked my running app and the temp and humidity were about the same.

 

[willieT]

I'm planning to be there early enough to figure all this out, but with taper madness creeping in, I'm starting to have worries about knowing where I need to go on race morning. Also having worries about not having enough training, despite having 4 successful 20+ mile runs under my belt

You are more than ready with 4 runs of 20+ miles! And, as the others have said, it's basically impossible to not know where to go -- just follow everyone else. To help ease your nerves, check out these videos which show the walk out path plus fun details of the (old) course:

Pirate Bobcat from 2014:

You gotta love Fabio's enthusiasm and energy :

Arno does a great job capturing the entire race, including the character stops:

 

[RussTKD]

So who is 'racing' as opposed to taking a guided running tour of the parks coupled with character meets?

 

[garneska]

So who is 'racing' as opposed to taking a guided running tour of the parks coupled with character meets?

I am planning to race the half if the weather is not stupid. Worried about humidity. Truth I am only running the half.

 

[Basil Fox]

Does anyone know, are Camelbak running vests allowed on the course?

 

[disneygpa]

Good morning everyone. With one week to go before Dopey starts, I thought I’d repost these great words of advice from Charles. Hope it helps calm some nerves and get you excited for the races to come.
——-
The hay is in the barn!

Coach Lackey used to yell that as we finished up practice before the big game. It was a groaner to a teen as we really did not understand the meaning of the phrase. Its a simple way of saying trust all the work you have put in this fall and let the race come to you. You may not feel well trained or are suffering through injury or illness or worse; both. Relax.

Think back as you pack and think of how hard it was to run 2 miles last July and now how short a 10 mile run feels. Think of all the trials you went through and how you developed the tool set to pull a run out and finish it rather than throw the towel in and head home. There is an inner peace that you have now that will help carry you through the race(s) this weekend.

If you are in the lack of training or injured camp, trust that the miles put in will help get you to the finish line. I know some have run little since Thanksgiving and yes, you too are able to finish. Keep a positive outlook as you start and it will help carry you to the line.

It is very normal to be a little nervous today; especially if this is your first event. It may be difficult to work as you loop through the what more could I have done list, over and over and over. Note that even those with 20+ marathons have some of the same nerves. The causes may differ just a bit, but the nerves may be just the same. Take a deep breath and relax as you work through this short work week.

Hydrate starting today. You may be snowbound and think that is silly but if you amp up the daily intake by just one glass or two every day this week your body will thank you. Make sure to buy a bottle of water for the plane. Air plane will suck the hydration down.

Make sure you have everything on your check list. I have seen a couple versions floating around, make sure they fit what you have trained with this fall. Carry your race shoes and clothing in a carry on. It does not happen often, but you really do not want your running shoes in Hawaii while you are in Orlando.

Make sure you do not amp up eating once you arrive. Disney has really amped up portion sizes and buffets are just bad news if you fail on self control. You want to maintain a nice balanced and well portioned diet from now until race morning. You simply do not need to gorge on a ton of pasta, a simple and light pasta meal should be more of a celebration of race eve than a thanksgiving meal wannabe.

The weather looks warm and worse humid, I urge a cautious pace on race morning. You know what your training pace has been; start with that or maybe 30-60 seconds slower. Dew point (or wet bulb) temperatures are the statistic to look for. When they are above 60F, caution is needed.

Race morning can be an all nerves on deck period. Take a few deep breaths and make sure you do not walk out the door missing something important like your bottoms. Ok Bib. I find that I allay most nerves by laying out my clothing in a stack; especially in a hotel type room. The first thing or bottom of the stack are my shoes then socks, HR monitor, Shirt, Bottoms. That way you are pulling the first item needed from the top of the stack, then the next and so on.

OK gut check time. I know there are a few folks who are worried about the balloon ladies, sweepers, or just failing. I cannot emphasize enough that you especially need to trust you training. Come on and start with us. It is a great experience to be at the race and in the start. The forward momentum of the morning can create a newer level of energy that may well carry you 5-6 extra miles beyond expectation. Keep one very simple thought as you move through the race The Relentless Pursuit of FORWARD Momentum. Its that simple. Rather than worry once you pass Start, focus all thought, effort and action to the simple goal of the Relentless Pursuit of FORWARD Momentum. Keep you stride light. Head up. Shoulders back and arms freely swinging with a RELAXED grip. Smile, yes SMILE and take a deep and cleansing breath every so often. Make the Relentless Pursuit of FORWARD Momentum your race day mission. Track your personal time from the start line. Make a pace list if you need so that you can check your personal time at every mile point i.e. :16; :32; :48. If you are not building a buffer on those splits stay focused on your race day mission; the Relentless Pursuit of FORWARD Momentum. That may mean skipping a photo op, pushing through and avoiding a potty break, or simply knuckling down.

I know that there will be a few who try and try with all their might yet find themselves in a bus seat. Its ok. Understand that you are part of the 1% of the worlds population who will start a marathon event this year. Hold you head high and enjoy the fact that you are not sitting on a couch or you are not the grumpy guest miffed at the runners who are keeping him from easily walking to a ride. You are one of the few who decided to be healthier and fitter last year and this is YOUR celebration and party. Enjoy the race while you are in it and know that even in an apparent failure, you are still a winner. You have moved off the couch. Take lessons learned and apply them to your next race.

Everyone, have safe travels and enjoy the race.

One final thought.
I wish I could say something classy and inspirational, but that just wouldn't be our style. Pain heals. Chicks dig scars. Glory... lasts forever. Shane Falco


Get out there and make it a great run!

Wow! Thanks!! I really really really needed to read that!!!

 

[Dopey 2020]

So who is 'racing' as opposed to taking a guided running tour of the parks coupled with character meets?

Planning on going for a PR in the full regardless of weather conditions. Just need to slow down and enjoy all the mornings prior to Sunday.

 

[DopeyBadger]

Possibly what the bibs will look like (seen in some of the art)? Go to Marathon Weekend under events

https://www.lasting-art.com/collections/frontpage

 

[rdelar01]

So who is 'racing' as opposed to taking a guided running tour of the parks coupled with character meets?

Racing is a strong word for what I am looking to do, LOL... I'm looking for a nice pace to finish my first marathon in 4:30
I plan to stick with the Galloway 4:30 pace group in Coral D.

 

[disneygpa]

With the current weather forecast saying it might be hot, I figured I'd re-post this about heat acclimation training. A key thing to remember is that the response to heat acclimation training is logarithmic according to the research. Meaning it's not too late to start. The first five HAT workouts offer substantially more adaptations than do the second five HAT workouts. So starting now will help make you feel more comfortable (not actually comfortable) then if you did nothing at all.

I didn't verify all the sources, but this appears to be well researched and sourced.

https://www.gssiweb.org/sports-scie...athletic-performance-in-warm-hot-environments
I put them behind spoilers for anyone who wants to skip past it.

A post from November 2017:

Spoiler: #1

Another option to help prepare for training in winter but racing in the unpredictable Florida weather is heat acclimation training outside (similar to your strategy on the treadmill):

So during most of your training you'll be wearing just enough clothes to border on being cold when training outside but staying comfortable. When you enter those last two weeks of training during your taper, switch to overdressing on everyday. It takes approximately 8-10 workouts to acclimate to a different condition (thus for people who run 4+ times per week about 2 weeks).

For example, for a cold workout I might wear columbia long sleeve, tights, and gloves. This would keep me comfortable in the cold weather but wouldn't hinder my performance. But during the taper during the same workout, I'd wear two columbia long sleeves, a cheap running jacket, two pairs of tights, and gloves. It was INCREDIBLY hot and uncomfortable to run in. I didn't care about pace anymore because I was in the taper. I was more concerned with giving the same effort but in this simulated heated environment. By wearing a poorly circulating running jacket, I semi-created a humid environment close to my skin (not allowing the moisture to leave). It is ABSOLUTELY critical that you continue to drink water as if it were a hot environment because this technique will dehydrate you very quickly and you'd like to continue to recover (taper) in advance of the race as well. Also, be very careful during your cool down because without the massive heat being generated by your body you'll get cold quick because of the sweat.

I used this Heat Acclimation strategy in preparation for the 2016/2017 Dopey Challenge. The 2016 marathon was relatively hot and humid (Temp + Dew Point of 140) compared to when I left WI (WC of -50F). That year was the slowest Disney Marathon winning time (2:33) ever. The winner, Fredison Costa, mentioned while accepting the award that he was about 15 minutes off his predicted time (because of the weather). That year, I was roughly 10 minutes off my time (3:45 vs 3:55) using my Heat Acclimation strategy even though I came from the frozen tundra. Is it perfect? Of course not. But it certainly can help make some of the necessary physiological changes in the body to enable you to be better prepared for racing in the heat (on the completely unknown chance it'll be T+D of 140 or like this past year with a T+D of 67).

And a different post with similar information, but some different stuff from December 2016.

Spoiler: #2

According to the research I've read, it takes about 14 days or 10 workouts to acclimate to a new temperature. So around today marks a good time to consider starting. For me personally, I typically dress in whatever I would normally wear for the weather conditions, and then act as if it's the next level of cold. So when I would wear shorts and tank normally in such weather, now I'll wear tights and a thermal. Or if I were to dress in a thermal and tights, now maybe a thermal+jacket and two tights. The point is to dress warmer than you need to be to create a micro-climate close to your skin. You want to be sweating and "feel" hot. This sweating and feeling of being "hot" will induce an adaptation in your body to acclimate to a warmer climate (primarily higher blood plasma and volume level, increased sweat rate, decreased salt amount in sweat, decreased fatigue rate of sweat glands, and quicker onset of sweating).

A few things to keep in mind if you choose to heat acclimate and have never done it before:
-Make sure to increase your fluid intake. Because you'll be sweating more, you'll need more fluids than a normal winter run. So make sure to stay hydrated. There is conflicting research as to whether dehydrated training is the key to heat acclimation, but I personally will not intentionally withhold water from myself.
-Be prepared to sacrifice some of the quality of your workout. You're going to be hot and you may find your pace will slow a bit naturally. In my opinion, that's ok. Don't push it. I would prefer to sacrifice a touch on pacing so that I can better prepare my body for the possible heat in Florida. The minimal gains made in pacing at this point in training would be far-outweighed by the potential gains made through heat acclimation training.
-When the run is finished, make sure to get inside quickly. Because of the excessive sweat rate for a winter run, you're more susceptible to getting cold quickly with all that moisture hanging around your body. So as soon as you finish the run, get inside your home, gym or car. Stretch indoors if possible.
-I will use this method on all types of paced runs from easy to long run to tempo so that my body acclimates at all types of paces, but more-so to get in the necessary workouts (or days) I'm looking for.

Sources:

http://www.irunfar.com/2009/02/heat-acclimation.html
https://runnersconnect.net/running-training-articles/science-of-hot-weather-running/
https://runnersconnect.net/running-training-articles/summer-training-for-a-marathon/
http://home.trainingpeaks.com/blog/article/preparing-for-a-hot-race-while-training-in-the-cold

http://home.trainingpeaks.com/blog/article/preparing-for-a-hot-race-while-training-in-the-cold

Maybe this is a silly question but I'm gonna ask it anyway. I've been trying to run with the extra layers to adjust and for the most part it's been ok. But what about when I'm not running. Would it be a benefit to try and put up with a little extra heat all day long? Like maybe wear a jacket or sweatshirt when I wouldn't normally wear one? Would it help to just get used to being hot and muggy?

 

[PrincessV]

I completely agree. I was visiting family in Florida for Xmas so I did my last long run (21 miles) on Xmas eve in the mid 80s but it was cloudy. Then was to do a 10 mile run the following Sunday, same temperature, but no clouds and bailed at 7.5 miles into the pool. Just checked my running app and the temp and humidity were about the same.

It's crazy, right?! And not much helps, short of carrying an umbrella, I'm afraid.

 

[pinkxray]

Just want a reminder answer to this question.
The walkway to DHS from the EPcot resorts is usually open throughout the marathon correct? I know the boats don’t run but I have usually read here the path to walk is open. We are staying at YAcht Club and I am hoping to walk to DHS Sunday morning.

 

[pluto377]

Full disclosure: I'm feeling a little stressed about the predicted heat. Have I trained in far, far worse here in FL? Yes, I have. Have I finished races in worse? Yep, that, too. But man - last year's WDW Marathon just punished me; I felt like I was being roasted toward the end. Remembering that is causing the stress, even though I know some of that pain was self-inflicted because I ran the first half too hard for the weather. So I'm doing some mental training now to reduce the fear and get into a better head space. In case it helps others who may be worried, here's where it's going...

I can't control the weather. I can control how I deal with it. I can...

... have a plan for slowing down from the start to reduce early heat stress: I will take an extra walk interval at every 1/2 mile
... wear appropriate clothing: light, airy, wicking
... help myself by making sure I take in adequate fluids and electrolytes the days before
... pour water over my head, neck, wrists at water stops and/or water fountains
... seek shade wherever possible on the course
... carry extra Nuun and Tailwind to ensure adequate electrolyte replacement

Wanted to add to your list- stop at the medical tents for bags of ice. I ran with and ice bag stuffed in my sports bra last year for about 5 miles and it helped so much. Not all that comfortable, but I felt like I was burning alive so I needed it.

 

[LSUfan4444]

Should I still carry those clothes, hats, gloves, Mylar blankets, polar fleece blankets, etc? And if I bring them to Florida, are there any place to leave them besides the bins at the races?

I'll still bring some clothes to keep me warm on race morning. I'll take them off and throw them over the barricade just before the start of the race.

 

[WhereInFlorida]

Just want a reminder answer to this question.
The walkway to DHS from the EPcot resorts is usually open throughout the marathon correct? I know the boats don’t run but I have usually read here the path to walk is open. We are staying at YAcht Club and I am hoping to walk to DHS Sunday morning.

I have never encountered anyone on that path other than runners in the years I have run, so will say it is closed. Not sure how they close it down but somehow they must keep pedestrians off of it. There were times it was difficult enough to manage with runners going in the same direction I cannot imagine having others walking in the opposite direction on that path.

 

[LSUfan4444]

So who is 'racing' as opposed to taking a guided running tour of the parks coupled with character meets?

Im going to make up my mind about mile two..

By that time I should be good and warmed up and I'll know then if it's a PR kind of day (which I doubt), a good day to race, a perfect day for a few good tempo miles or a day to just try to have as much fun as possible.

I've PR'd the last two Disney marathons and only racing the half this year and the training this time around has definitely been less focused on this event than what its been in years past.

 

[LSUfan4444]

Just want a reminder answer to this question.
The walkway to DHS from the EPcot resorts is usually open throughout the marathon correct? I know the boats don’t run but I have usually read here the path to walk is open. We are staying at YAcht Club and I am hoping to walk to DHS Sunday morning.

Ive used the walkway before on marathon Sunday...just be mindful of the runners. I'd suggest taking the bridge from Yacht Club over to the boardwalk and cutting through the clown pool and not actually hitting to much of the run route until past the boardwalk tennis courts (near where the 24 mi ish aid station will be).