The 3rd Annual Princess Half Marathon

Robert Mathis has tips for running regally and finishing with style

- by Robert Mathis, February 22, 2011

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CALLING ALL PRINCESSES!

That's the cry ringing through the land as Disney World readies for an invasion this week of princesses in running and walking shoes.

Princess Half Marathon

Over 10,000 people will participate in the 3rd Annual Princess Half Marathon (and Royal Family 5K) scheduled for February 25-27. The Marathon is a women's themed running event, though the occasional male participant is welcome, too. The race has been moved up a week from its original March date.

The course is the same one as that used for the Disney World Half Marathon in January. It begins just outside Epcot and continues to the Magic Kingdom - and through Cinderella Castle! - before heading out of the Magic Kingdom for a short run through parts of Epcot toward the finish line outside the park.

The race will have serious runners as well as those who just want a great run in a great place - and who want to participate dressed as their favorite princess.

Upon crossing the finish line, runners will receive a beautiful tiara-shaped finisher's medal.

If you're not up to a Half Marathon, consider instead the Beauty and the Beast 5K. It's scheduled for the Saturday before the Half Marathon, and its course winds its way through Epcot. Finishers of the 5K will also receive a medal.

Tips for Running Well and Finishing Fast

Here are some tips to ensure you run the best race you're capable of running:

1. If you want to buy merchandise, make sure you go to the Race Expo (Packet Pickup) on the first day of the race. Disney only has a limited amount of race merchandise. If you arrive late, it probably will be gone.
2. Attend the Expo Speaker Series for some great pre-race, race, and post-race information from the experts. It's free! When else can you say that at Disney!
3. Don't over-exert yourself at the the parks before the race. Standing in lines and walking can take a toll on your legs and performance.
4. Pre-race meal: Make sure you eat a good meal the night before. A good pasta dinner will give you the carbohydrates to help fuel you the next day. Most Disney restaurants have a pasta option.
5. Lay your running clothes out the night before. Reduce stress by preparing in advance everything you need for the race
6. Put your D-Tag timing chip on your shoe the night before. You want to make sure you are an a "official finisher"!

7. For breakfast on the morning of the race, eat only the food you're used to eating. Don't try something new that might not agree with you and cause unnecessary bathroom breaks! Some food courts will be open, but buy what you want the day or the night before and have it in your room. Don't risk Disney selling out of what you want!
8. Bring some 'throw away' clothes to wear while waiting for the race to start. It will be dark and possibly cold so be prepared. You can toss off these clothes right before the race starts and Disney will clean them and donate them to charity. If you don't have any throw-away clothes, bring a garbage sack to wear as it will work in a pinch! Gloves also really help.
9. If you're at the race alone, use bag check so you'll have some dry (and warm clothes) to wear after the race.
10. Stay calm and enjoy the experience. Don't stress about the race or how well you'll perform. Just have a magical time!
11. Stay hydrated. Make sure you drink lots of water and some PowerAde, too. It will improve your performance and make you feel better!
12. Arrive early (like you have a say in that)! Leave time to relax and hit the porta-potties before heading to the corrals!
13. Bring a camera! During the race, characters will be available for photographs. There may be some lines, but the time lost is worth the priceless memories!
14. Start slow. Don't get caught up in the other runners and thrown off your pace. Stay with your training, not someone else's training. If you don't, you'll pay for it later!
15. After the race, make sure you wear your medal proudly in the parks! You earned it and people will congratulate you all day!

Enjoy the race - and good luck!

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