"Sometimes the right path is not the easiest one." - 1st Training Journal (comments welcome!)

[Livelovedance]

Dopey Training Week 13
Monday 11/28/22
Planned: 30 min Strength workout
10 min treadmill walk
20 min Upper Body Strength

Tuesday 11/29/22
Planned: 3 mi Easy/LR (0:43:49)
10 min Warm Up Walk
Treadmill - 44 min Just Run (0:44:07, 3.07 mi, 14:23 pace)
Garmin - 0:44:02 (3.02 mi, 14:36 pace)
5 min Cool Down Walk

Wednesday 11/30/22
Planned: 1 mi @ WU + 5 x 0.75 mi @ T w/ 3 min RI @ WU + 1 mi @ CD (1:21:52)
5 min Pre-Run Warm Up
5 min Warm-Up Walk
Treadmill - 88 min Just Run (1:27:56, 6.6 mi, 13:18 pace)
Garmin - 1:27:55 (6.56 mi, 13:25 pace)
5 min Cool Down Walk
5 min Post-Run Stretch

November 2022 miles (Garmin) = 114.08 mi

Thursday 12/1/22
Planned: 30 min Strength workout
20 min Upper Body Strength
5 min Full Body Stretch

Friday 12/2/22
Planned: 4 mi Easy/LR (0:58:25)
Treadmill - 59 min Just Run (0:59:10, 4.11 mi, 14:23 pace)
Garmin - 0:59:11 (4.00 mi, 14:47 pace)
5 min Post-Run Stretch

Saturday 12/3/22
Planned: 6 mi Easy/LR (1:27:37)
5 min Pre-Run Warm Up
10 min Warm Up Walk
Treadmill - 87 min Just Run (1:27:40, 6.08 mi, 14:25 pace)
Garmin - 1:27:37 (6.03 mi, 14:31 pace)
5 min Cool Down Walk
5 min Post-Run Stretch

Sunday 12/4/22
Planned: 9.5 mi @ Easy + 2 mi @ 60/30 @ 12:36/18:00 (Easy + M Tempo) (2:42:48)
Weather Conditions: Sunny
T&D: 40 + 22 = 62
Feels Like: 34
Wind: NW 11 mph
Humidity: 47%
UV Index: 0
Running Conditions Index: 5
5 min Pre-Run Warm Up
NRC - 2:39:00, 11.50 mi, 13:49 pace
Garmin - 2:39:04, 11:71 mi, 13:35 pace
5 min Post-Run Stretch
I got outside for this run again. I knew I wouldn’t be able to solidly find and follow the exact pacing without the set treadmill speeds, so I tried to use how I felt and the average pace on the Garmin as a guide. This was a long run so I was pretty proud of myself for getting it done without issue.

 

[Livelovedance]

Dopey Training Week 14
Monday 12/5/22
Planned: 30 min Strength workout
10 min Core Strength
20 min Upper Body Strength

Tuesday 12/6/22
Planned: 4 mi Easy/LR (0:58:25)
5 min Pre-Run Warm Up
Treadmill - 58 min Just Run (0:58:28, 4.07 mi, 14:20 pace)
Garmin - 0:58:29 (4.30 mi, 13:35 pace)
5 min Post-Run Stretch

Wednesday 12/7/22
Planned: 1 mi WU + 5 rep Progression (13:30, 13:00, 12:30, 12:00, 11:30) w/ each rep @ 1 mi + 1 mi CD (1:32:06)
5 min Pre-Run Warm Up
10 min Warm-Up Walk
Treadmill - 93 min Just Run (1:33:13, 7.03 mi, 13:15 pace)
Garmin - 1:33:08 (7.00 mi, 13:18 pace)
5 min Cool Down Walk
5 min Post-Run Stretch

Thursday 12/8/22
Planned: 30 min Strength workout
No workout

Friday 12/9/22
Planned: 4 mi Easy/LR (0:58:25)
Treadmill - 58 min Just Run (0:58:27, 4.06 mi, 14:20 pace)
Garmin - 0:58:27 (4.23 mi, 13:49 pace)

Saturday 12/10/22
Planned: 6 mi Easy/LR (1:27:37)
5 min Pre-Run Warm Up
Treadmill - 87 min Just Run (1:27:40, 6.09 mi, 14:23 pace)
Garmin - 1:27:39 (6.14 mi, 14:17 pace)

Sunday 12/11/22
Planned: 1 mi @ Easy + 7 mi @ 90/30 @ 11:30/17:30 + 1 mi @ Easy (Easy + M Tempo + Easy) (1:53:26)
5 min Pre-Run Warm Up
Treadmill - 117 min Just Run (1:57:28, 9.01 mi, 13:01 pace)
Garmin - 1:57:24, 8.70 mi, 13:30 pace
5 min Cool Down Walk
5 min Post-Run Stretch

 

[Livelovedance]

Dopey Training Week 15
Monday 12/12/22
Planned: 30 min Strength workout
30 min Cardio

Tuesday 12/13/22
Planned: 4 mi Easy/LR (0:58:25)
Treadmill - 58 min Just Run (0:58:30, 4.05 mi, 14:23 pace)
Garmin - 0:58:28 (4.08 mi, 14:20 pace)

Wednesday 12/14/22
Planned: 1 mi WU + 8 x 0.5 mi @ T w/ 2 min RI @ WU + 1 mi CD (1:26:37)
Treadmill - 90 min Just Run (1:30:09, 7.11 mi, 12:40 pace)
Garmin - 1:30:05 (6.89 mi, 13:05 pace)
5 min Post-Run Stretch

Thursday 12/15/22
Planned: 30 min Strength workout
20 min evening stretch
10 min relaxing meditation
(I don’t remember this day but it must’ve been a stressful one!)

Friday 12/16/22
Planned: 4 mi Easy/LR (0:58:25)
Treadmill - 58 min Just Run (0:58:31, 4.06 mi, 14:23 pace)
Garmin - 0:58:27 (4.07 mi, 14:21 pace)

Saturday 12/17/22
Planned: 6 mi Easy/LR (1:27:37)
Treadmill - 87 min Just Run (1:27:41, 6.08 mi, 14:25 pace)
Garmin - 1:27:38 (6.10 mi, 14:22 pace)

Sunday 12/18/22
Planned: 12 mi Easy/LR (2:55:14)
I’m just going to begin by saying this was the worst of my training days. I was disappointed to not be able to get this long run done outdoors, but it ended up being a good thing because I was so sick to my stomach and I had to keep stopping for bathroom breaks. I can’t pause the treadmill, so I had to keep stopping and starting a new workout. I did pause the Garmin each time. I ended up doing more walking after awhile, and then ending the run altogether.
5 min Pre-Run Warm Up
Treadmill -
23 min Just Run (0:23:43, 1.61 mi, 14:21 pace)
26 min Just Run (0:25:51, 1.72 mi, 14:57 pace)
42 min Just Run (0:42:37, 2.20 mi, 19:17 pace)
8 min Just Run (0:08:15, 0.44 mi, 18:27 pace)
Garmin - 1:40:27, 6.00 mi, 16:45 pace
I was so upset that I couldn’t complete this mileage (even just walking), but I was just too sick to get it done.

 

[Livelovedance]

Dopey Training Week 16
Monday 12/19/22
Planned: 30 min Strength workout
Against my better judgement, I decided to complete the second half of my 12 mile run today for my mental sanity. These last couple weeks had been really trying on me, which probably contributed to my actual sickness the day before. I knew it wasn’t the end of the world physically to not get the miles done, but mentally I needed to get the miles done.
Treadmill - 86 min Just Run (1:26:33, 6.00 mi, 14:23 pace)
Garmin - 1:26:33 (6.16 mi, 14:03 pace)
10 min Post-Run Stretch

Tuesday 12/20/22
Planned: 4 mi Easy/LR (0:58:25)
Treadmill - 58 min Just Run (0:58:29, 4.07 mi, 14:21 pace)
Garmin - 0:58:27 (4.13 mi, 14:10 pace)
10 min Post-Run Stretch
5 min meditation

Wednesday 12/21/22
Planned: 1 mi WU + 5 rep Progression (13:30, 13:00, 12:30, 12:00, 11:30) w/ each rep @ 0.75 mi + 1 mi CD (1:16:22)
Treadmill - 76 min Just Run (1:16:30, 5.81 mi, 13:13 pace)
Garmin - 1:16:27 (5.76 mi, 13:17 pace)
10 min Post-Run Stretch
I decided to try to do the progression section without walk breaks, and I did it! This was a major accomplishment for me, especially after the failed 12 mile run on Sunday.

Thursday 12/22/22
Planned: 30 min Strength workout
30 min Deep Relaxation Meditation

Friday 12/23/22
Planned: 4 mi Easy/LR (0:58:25)
Fell asleep and didn’t get this run done. My first absolute missed run for this training cycle. I tried not to beat myself up for it, because I know I was dealing with a lot and I clearly needed the rest, but it was a bit of blow to the ego after my accomplishments on Wednesday. I shook it off and moved forward.

Saturday 12/24/22
Planned: 6 mi Easy/LR (1:27:37)
Treadmill - 87 min Just Run (1:27:41, 6.09 mi, 14:21 pace)
Garmin - 1:27:38 (6.02 mi, 14:33 pace)
5 min Post-Run Stretch

Sunday 12/25/22
Planned: 1 mi @ Easy + 7 mi @ 90/30 @ 11:30/17:30 + 1 mi @ Easy (1:53:26)
Today was a travel day to WDW. The dance studio I work for had a performance this week in Disney Springs. My flight was early in the morning, so I knew I needed to get the run done in FL but with the chaos of travel and an issue with our room at an off-site resort that resulted in me switching resorts at the last minute, I almost forgot to get it done. Once we settled in our room I got changed and got out there. In my rush I had issues starting my apps, so I ended up following the distance on my Garmin.
Weather Conditions: Sunny
T&D: 44 + 20 = 64
Feels Like: 41
Wind: WNW 5 mph
Humidity: 39%
UV Index: 0
Running Conditions Index: 5
Garmin - 1:56:02, 9.00 mi, 12:54 pace
Peloton app - 114 min 6 sec Just Run Outdoor (1:54:06, 8.57 mi, 12:57 pace)
I ended up doing a lot of laps in a small space for this run, because it was later than I liked and I was unfamiliar with the area, but I got it done.

 

[Livelovedance]

Dopey Training Week 17
Monday 12/26/22
Planned: 30 min Strength workout
No workout

Tuesday 12/27/22
Planned: 4 mi Easy/LR (0:58:25)
Weather Conditions: Sunny
T&D: 43 + 31 = 74
Feels Like: 39
Wind: N 6 mph
Humidity: 64%
UV Index: 0
Running Conditions Index: 6
5 min Pre-Run Warm Up
NRC - 0:56:53, 4.00 mi, 14:12 pace
Garmin - 0:57:02, 4.00 mi, 14:15 pace
I got this run done in the morning and found better paths to run, which made for a much more enjoyable experience.

Wednesday 12/28/22
Planned: 1 mi WU + 5 rep Progression (13:30, 13:00, 12:30, 12:00, 11:30) w/ each rep @ 0.5 mi + 1 mi CD (1:00:39)
Weather Conditions: Sunny
T&D: 49 + 44 = 93
Feels Like: 48
Wind: N 4 mph
Humidity: 82%
UV Index: 0
Running Conditions Index: 8
NRC - 1:00:11, 4.62 mi, 13:01 pace
Garmin - 1:00:02, 4.50 mi, 13:20 pace
I completed these progressions without walk breaks as well, and it felt great to do them outdoors.

Thursday 12/29/22
Planned: 30 min Strength workout
20 min Deep Relaxation Meditation

Friday 12/30/22
Planned: 4 mi Easy/LR (0:58:25)
Weather Conditions: Sunny
T&D: 58 + 56 = 114
Feels Like: 58
Wind: NNE 4 mph
Humidity: 94%
UV Index: 0
Running Conditions Index: 9
NRC - 0:58:57, 4.17 mi, 14:08 pace
Garmin - 0:58:54, 4.00 mi, 14:44 pace
Last day in Disney, and last outdoor run of the training cycle.

Saturday 12/31/22
Planned: 4 mi Easy/LR (0:58:25)
5 min Pre-Run Warm Up
Treadmill - 62 min Just Run (1:02:09, 4.34 mi, 14:21 pace)
Garmin - 1:02:06 (4.00 mi, 15:32 pace)
5 min Post-Run Stretch

December 2022 miles (Garmin) = 126.82 miles
2022 Total Miles (Garmin) = 653.75 miles

Sunday 1/1/23
Planned: 3 mi Easy/LR (0:43:49)
Treadmill - 44 min Just Run (0:43:53, 3.04 mi, 14:25 pace)
Garmin - 0:43:52 (3.04 mi, 14:26 pace) - I calibrated my Garmin after this run
5 min Post-Run Stretch

 

[Livelovedance]

Dopey Training Week 18
It’s Marathon Weekend!

Monday 1/2/23
Planned: 30 min Strength workout
15 min Core Stregth
15 min Barre: Upper Body

Tuesday 1/3/23
Planned: 1.5 mi Easy/LR (0:21:54)
Treadmill - 22 min Just Run (0:21:55, 1.52 mi, 14:21 pace)
Garmin - 0:21:56 (1.47 mi, 14:58 pace)
This was my last training run before Dopey, and I had to get it done in the morning before work. Unfortunately I woke up really late (I fell asleep without setting my early alarm), but I was able to get it done, finish the last minute stuff that had to get packed, and get to work.

After work was a hectic travel time. We had to take a stop with a layover because I had to work today, but there were no issues. The first flight was delayed by about 15-20 minutes, which wasn’t bad at all. The next flight was on time, and despite a slight anxiousness when one of my AirTags thought one of my bags was left at the second airport (it wasn’t), everything went fairly well. By the time we arrived at our room it was almost midnight, but it‘s marathon weekend and I’m in Disney and I’m excited/anxious/nervous for all that’s to come!

I’m glad I had a chance to update this journal, because now my next posts can be trip/race updates! This helped pass the time and now I can get ready to attempt the runDisney expo virtual queue for the first time, and then get ready for the day. As much as I hate the idea of the virtual queue, I kind of like the fact that I don‘t have to rush to get there too early before opening.

I’m hoping that the virtual queue works in my favor and I’m able to get the merchandise I want! I‘m aiming for some Dopey items (since it‘ll be my first and likely last Dopey - mainly because of my work schedule), maybe a MW jacket, and alllllll of the pins and magnets for this race weekend.

 

[Livelovedance]

Marathon Weekend 2023
Wednesday, January 4 - Expo Day!
I'm so excited for this race weekend recap! My last post was arrival day, so I'm up to expo day! Call me crazy, but expo day might be my favorite day of a runDisney race weekend. As stressful and hectic as it can be, I actually don't mind waiting in the merch lines because it just builds up the excitement of the weekend. Although I tend to have a lot of social anxiety, someone always ends up talking to me at some point during the merch madness and it's always a pleasant conversation. As much as we complain about the drama that unfolds all weekend, I think runners are some of the best people and I'm happy to be a part of that group.

Despite having gone to sleep after 1:30am after such a late arrival, I was up early enough to check the DISboards and enter the runDisney Merchandise Shop virtual queue. I don't think I've tried for a VQ since I rode ROTR, so I was a little nervous about the process. I reread the post about how to enter, and was thankful that I started early enough to see that I could enter my party before the queue actually opened. I had the app opened and refreshing on 2 phones, and mine opened up first. I ended up with Group 46 with a 195 minute estimated wait. At first I felt slightly disappointed, but not too bad because 46 isn't terrible. After joining the queue I checked out the runtheimpossible instagram feed (thanks to everyone on the MW thread for suggesting it!) to get an idea of what items I might be interested in. As much as I wasn't a fan of having to do the virtual queue, it was really nice to not have to rush to get there early enough to shop. I took a shower, we had our first Disney breakfast, and then headed over (still a little early) to the expo.

We arrived a little after 11am. I started with a plan to take photos at the medal signs outside, but only ended up getting one because it was soooo crowded. I guess people had a similar plan since they were waiting to be allowed in to shop. I ended up taking some pictures of them inbetween people, and decided I'd come back later. We walked up towards the bib pickup line to see if that would be a good idea (knowing people had posted the line was long), but the line went through a completely different area that I've never seen before. I stopped to ask a CM if that was the bib pick up line and she kindly said yes and that it was veryyyy long, so we bailed on that plan and went back to the merch building to wait. Our group was called at 11:52am, we walked through the building and were at the merch area at 12:07pm.

The merchandise building was INSANE. I've been to the expo on day 1 for other races, but never MW, and I was just floored. I took a basket and made a very quick walk around to grab things I knew I wanted (pins, magnets, and something that said Dopey Challenge on it), but it was not easy. When it came to clothing items I grabbed two in different sizes with plans to try them on afterwards once I had what I wanted. By the time we got in (group 46 on day one) there were VERY limited sizes in the Dopey jacket (I did grab one) and very small sizes left in the Dopey sweatshirt. I took the Dopey tank top, figuring I'd get more use out of it anyway, and figured when I came back to return the size that I didn't want I'd look again to see if anything had been restocked. Well that never happened, because there were crowds standing around the Dopey section like hawks, and I honestly don't even know if they were ever able to restock. I ended up passing on the weekend jacket. I loved the colors of the men's version, but since it was a men's cut the sizing just didn't work for me (especially for the price), and I didn't like the look of the women's. I got the weekend long sleeve baseball-style shirt instead which I hadn't noticed previously but really liked. I made someone's day when I went to put the Dopey jacket back (it was a men's cut like the weekend jacket so I knew it wouldn't work). They actually asked me if I was buying it on my way back to return it, and were soooo appreciative of it! I was happy that I was able to make someone else happy lol.

Once we had settled on what we wanted to buy, I checked the DIS one more time to make sure I didn't get any requests from anyone, and then found a spot to sit and do mobile checkout. Despite putting a number of things back, I ended up spending way more than I expected to between the two of us. Thank goodness for gift cards acquired throughout the year and my AP discount! We ended up with the white generic runDisney spirit jersey (this might be my favorite purchase of the day), the Dopey tank top, the long sleeve MW shirt, the MW ears, the Corkcicle water bottle, pins, and magnets. We checked out at 1:18pm.

On my way out I asked a CM at the exit where the Dopey photo was (after seeing @Herding_Cats post) and she told me it was right outside the exit so I was very excited. Even though I was ready to be done with the expo, I waited in the long line because I wasn't sure if I'd get another shot at a Dopey photo for the weekend. I ended up having a wonderful conversation with a woman in front of me and a couple behind me, all of which were experiencing runDisney for the first time. We chatted about the insanity of the merch building and the excitement of the weekend. After getting my photo with Dopey at 1:54pm, we decided to take a lunch break and come back later for my bibs, shirts, and more photos.

While on our lunch break I decided to see if I could get into another virtual queue group just to see if any merch was restocked (I never saw the Dopey ears and was still interested to see if the jacket or sweatshirt had been restocked). I wasn't sure if I'd even be able to join again since I had already been in once, but it did surprisingly let us join again and gave us group 181 with a wait of 140 minutes. We changed our park pass from AK to MK, ate lunch, and were back at the expo at 4:00pm.


Thankfully by this time bib pickup was back to normal. We walked into the field house, made a left for Dopey pickup, and received my bibs, my first runDisney luggage tag , and my bag of shirts. I didn't have the energy to try on all of the shirts, but I tried on the Dopey one to make sure the size was good and checked the sizes on all of the other ones. I decided I'd wait until I was in the room later to try on the rest, and make a trip back if I needed to at another time. After bib pickup I took some photos of the little banners on the way out, and then we made our way to the main expo building.



It was still pretty chaotic in there so we didn't stay too long. We made our way back into the merchandise building after that, but basically did a walk in and out. After dropping off our merch at the resort we made our way to MK for a very short visit. We arrived around fireworks time so we decided to jump in a line for a ride on the HM. It was crowded, and I had my first early wakeup the next morning so we called it a night right after the ride. We were back at the resort at 9:36pm, I got everything ready for the race the next morning and went to bed.

 

[Livelovedance]

Marathon Weekend 2023
Thursday, January 5 - WDW 5K
At 2:23am I was up and double checking all of my costume pieces. I drove to the race solo today.



A lot of the race mornings are a blur, but I think I made it do the DIS meetup this morning in my Pluto bound and took one pre-race photo with Donald Duck before heading to the corrals. I was in corral C, and I think I placed myself about midway. I started the race at 5:29am.


This was probably my least favorite race of the weekend, but it wasn't horrible. It was humid and crowded. The first character stop (Tarzan and Kerchak) had a pretty long line and I didn't feel like stopping so soon. I figured the rest of the lines would get shorter (boy was I wrong) and Tarzan isn't a character I felt like I needed stop for, so I kept going.

Tarzan and Kerchak 5:43am

Mile 1 Marker 5:44am

EPCOT barges 5:55am

Mile 2 Marker 5:58am

At mile 2 I realized I hadn't stopped for anything, so when I got to the next character stop immediately after mile 2 and asked the CM who it was (he was on a break), I decided to stop when I saw it was Max. I knew Max was supposed to be in another race, but I hadn't stopped once yet and figured I might as well just get the photo just in case the line's too long the next time. Unfortunately this meant I had to backtrack to get on the line. It was long but it moved, and I chatted with two other runners behind me while we waited.

Max 6:15am

The next photo stop was a photo I wish I had stopped for instead of Max, but I didn't know ahead of time! This line was ridiculously long, and at that point I didn't have it in me to stop and wait anymore. I stopped and took a quick photo of them and kept running.

Chip and Dale Rescue Rangers 6:18am

Mile 3 Marker 6:29am

I finished the race in a large sea of runners, took my finisher photo, and was back at the resort at 7:10am. They had a "Congratulations Runners" sign out front which was a nice touch.



ETA Race Stats:
NRC
Miles = 3.26
Avg. Pace = 13'48"
Time = 0:44:58 (ETA: This app is set to auto pause, so this is my run time not including character stops)
Splits =
Mile 1 - 13'57"
Mile 2 - 13'25"
Mile 3 - 14'04"
0.26 - 13'37"

Garmin
Miles = 3.30
Avg. Pace = 18'31"
Time = 1:01:08 (ETA: I left this watch running, so this was my total time on course including any stops)
Laps =
Mile 1 - 14:18 pace
Mile 2 - 13:47 pace
Mile 3 - 29:00 pace
0.30 - 13:21 pace

After the race I showered, ate a quick breakfast, and then we headed to MK for the morning. We spent some time there, took a trip to Disney Springs in the afternoon, and then had a late lunch back at the resort. After lunch I prepped my race gear for the following morning, and then we took our 3rd trip to the expo that evening for the photos that I skipped the first two times due to the crowds. I took photos with all of the medal signs, and then made my way back into the merch building to take photos with the mileage numbers. I was surprised to find the characters still there, so I got on the line to take a photo with Goofy.

After coming back to the resort I grabbed a salad via mobile order and brought it back to the room for dinner. I got in bed nice and early so I could feel rested and ready for the 10K!

 

[Livelovedance]

Marathon Weekend 2023
Friday, January 6 - WDW 10K

I'm not sure why, but the 10K race day might've been one of my favorite days of the trip. I got a slightly later start (not late, but later than I had planned) and I think I missed the meetup this day. My race costume was loosely Chip & Dale themed and they were out in their Rescue Rangers outfits for pre/post race photos, but their line looked too long so I decided to try for it again after the race (spoiler alert - this was probably a huge mistake). I ended up waiting on line for a photo with Launchpad McQuack instead before heading to the corrals.


Maybe I was more rested this morning, but I was much more into the 90's weekend theme than I was yesterday. While waiting on line for my photo I watched a girl dressed as Powerline do the iconic dance from "A Goofy Movie" while the DJ danced on stage behind her. There was a group ahead of me on line that ran in Run-Disney (think Run-DMC) costumes and I was so impressed.


I'm a solo runner, and I don't mind because I can do my own intervals and not feel like I'm holding anyone back, and my social anxiety is a nonissue. However, I'm always impressed (and sometimes a little envious) of the runners that have a group.

I was in corral C again, and started the race today at 5:35am.


Photo Time Stamps:
Hercules (didn't stop, just a quick blurry photo as I ran by) 5:40am
Mile 1 Marker 5:49am
Mile 2 Marker 6:02am
Mile 3 Marker 6:15am

I was using the character list posted here on the DIS to loosely plan my photo stops. I stopped for Goofy for my first photo, and figured I'd stop for Mickey & Minnie and Darkwing Duck later on.

Goofy 6:26am

After Goofy I stopped at the line for Mickey and Minnie by the boardwalk, and I was so glad I knew who it was ahead of time because the line wrapped around a bit and I probably wouldn't have wanted to turn back after passing it. While I was on line a kind runner was sharing the character list of the half and the full, so I started planning what stops I was interested in for the next 2 races to pass the time. I think this line might've been my longest wait.

Photos of her phone 6:36am
Mickey and Minnie 6:59am
Mile 4 Marker 7:00am
Mile 5 Marker 7:16am
I planned to stop for Darkwing Duck, but by the time I got to him his line was ridiculously long. I have a picture with him from last year's marathon so I decided to skip it and keep going.

Mile 6 Marker 7:28am

NRC (set to auto pause, only includes active running time)
Miles = 6.41
Avg. Pace = 13'04"
Time = 1:23:47
Splits =
Mile 1 - 13'31"
Mile 2 - 12'47"
Mile 3 - 12'56"
Mile 4 - 14'08"
Mile 5 - 13'33"
Mile 6 - 11'57"
0.41 - 11'46"

Garmin (total time on course, including photo stops)
Miles = 6.39
Avg. Pace = 18'10"
Time = 1:55:57
Laps =
Mile 1 - 13:33 pace
Mile 2 - 12:54 pace
Mile 3 - 12:55 pace
Mile 4 - 44:42 pace
Mile 5 - 15:04 pace
Mile 6 - 11:57 pace
0.39 - 12:31 pace

After finishing the race and getting all of the gear (medal, water, Powerade, snack box, and banana), I decided to get on line for Chip and Dale before doing my "I Did It" photo. This was a mistake. I'm not sure if it would've been worse to have waited pre-race, or if I would've been late to my corral, but the wait was soooo long. I don't know exactly how long I was waiting, but I thought to take a photo after I had been waiting for awhile (7:53am) just to see how long it was when I was finished. I got to listen to numerous announcements about the event buses ending at 9:00, and how if we chose to stay in line we'd have to take the regular EPCOT buses back to our resorts. This was a non-issue for me because I drove, but I thought it was nice that they gave that warning (so many times!).


I didn't get my photo until 9:11am, and because of the shadows from the sun I'm not even crazy about it. Lesson learned! The PhotoPass photographers were all still standing by the finisher photo spots, so I asked if they were still taking photos and they said yes. There were no paddles in sight, so I just took an awkward one holding my medal out in one hand.

Afterwards I headed back at my resort and noticed they added a balloon stand next to the Congratulations Runners sign from yesterday. They also had a photo frame sign hanging on the runDisney transportation/information board right inside the lobby. By 10:05am I was in my room. I showered, ate breakfast, and then we headed out to HS.


I ended up purchasing Genie+ for us for this day, which was a waste of money in terms of how much we got out of it, but we hadn't done much rides due to being Disney spoiled and not waiting to wait so long. We went to HS, went off property for lunch, and then park hopped to EPCOT for the evening where I got some decent medal photos. On my way out of the park I decided I needed something warmer for throwaway clothes, so we took a trip to Walmart where I purchased a very warm and soft robe, and a couple fleece blankets. I knew I'd look ridiculous in it, but I'd be warm and that's what counts. The lines in Walmart were insane and we got out of there pretty late. The only downside to this day was forgetting that although going to bed around 10:00pm is early for my everyday life, it's late when you're planning to get up at 1:30am! I got everything ready for the next morning's run and went straight to bed. I reread the half marathon character list and tried to plan out my must dos, and fell asleep at some point during that planning.

 

[Livelovedance]

Marathon Weekend 2023
Saturday, January 7 - WDW Half Marathon

This morning I woke up at 1:30am and decided to switch my costume to my planned costume for the marathon. My original pick for today was Donald Duck themed, but after the mess that was my Chip and Dale photo I figured I was better off switching my costumes so I had a better shot getting a matching character photo for each race. I switched my bib from one shirt to the next, and got ready in my Sorcerer Mickey themed outfit.

I waited on line for pre race photos with Pain and Panic, and Darkwing Duck (since I skipped him yesterday).


I took the long walk to the corrals (I was placed in C again), and felt badly for those who had to take the long walk in the grass to their corrals. I would not have been happy if I had to take that walk. The one good thing that came out of getting limited sleep the night before was that I was nice and warm in my robe! A few people stopped to tell me that it was a smart idea, and I agreed because had no regrets purchasing it. I have to take that into consideration for future throwaway ideas.



I started the race today at 5:27am. I was caught off guard, but my race had begun!

Photo Time Stamps:
Esmeralda 5:35am
Sally 5:45am

I walked for a long time because I was cold and didn't want to remove my robe. I actually took it off and put it back on for the first two photo stops. I think I finally got rid of it and started running sometime after mile 1.

Mile 1 Marker 5:51am
Mile 2 Marker 6:05am
Magic Kingdom parking 6:13am

Jack Skellington 6:21am
Mile 3 Marker 6:24am
Mile 4 Marker 6:39am
Magic Kingdom entrance (Minnie Mouse) 6:51am
Mile 5 Marker 6:53am
Buzz Lightyear 6:58am

The worst part about this race was running attempting to run through the castle. You couldn't even walk, you basically just shuffled your feet until you got down the ramp. Needless to say, my photo here is me in the background of someone else, but I did stop for a photo in front of the castle.

Castle photo 7:06am

Mickey Mouse 7:16am

I had to go to the bathroom, and made the HUGE mistake of not stopping before exiting MK. HUGE mistake, because I don't do portapotties. This made the rest of this race incredibly difficult. I don't remember when in mileage this was, but I didn't get to stop for a bathroom until we got back to EPCOT and were in the cheering section by the resort bus stops. I cut through the bushes to go, and hoped that no one thought I was course cutting somehow. Yet another lesson learned!

Mile 6 Marker 7:25am
Mile 7 Marker 7:40am
Mile 8 Marker 7:56am
Mile 9 Marker 8:12am
Mile 10 Marker 8:27am
Mile 11 Marker 8:43am
Mile 12 Marker 9:02am
Meeko 9:08am
Mile 13 Marker 9:19am

ETA:
NRC (set to auto pause, only includes active running time)
Miles = 13.93
Avg. Pace = 14'56"
Time = 3:28:03
Splits =
Mile 1 - 16'20"
Mile 2 - 14'01"
Mile 3 - 14'31"
Mile 4 - 13'11"
Mile 5 - 13'22"
Mile 6 - 16'10"
Mile 7 - 14'35"
Mile 8 - 15'05"
Mile 9 - 15'55"
Mile 10 - 15'20"
Mile 11 - 16'05"
Mile 12 - 14'28"
Mile 13 - 15'28"
0.93 - 14'31"

Garmin (total time on course, including photo stops)
Miles = 13.89
Avg. Pace = 17'02"
Time = 3:56:46
Laps =
Mile 1 - 23:05 pace
Mile 2 - 13:44 pace
Mile 3 - 18:07 pace
Mile 4 - 14:20 pace
Mile 5 - 13:30 pace
Mile 6 - 28:02 pace
Mile 7 - 15:16 pace
Mile 8 - 14:53 pace
Mile 9 - 16:09 pace
Mile 10 - 15:14 pace
Mile 11 - 16:21 pace
Mile 12 - 14:31 pace
Mile 13 - 20:06 pace
0.89 - 15:07 pace

At the end of the race I received my medal and noticed it was pretty scratched up immediately. I asked a woman if I could exchange it, and she said I had to go to the information tent. She seemed annoyed, which led me to believe that many people were having the same issue. When I got to the information tent, I realized I was right. They had us wait until they got some boxes of medals, but the crowd continued to grow by the minute and there was no line or order to anything. I had a short conversation with a woman who was also waiting for a replacement medal, and we discussed how we were glad we got there when we did because we were in the front and a large crowd had formed behind us. Unfortunately, when the boxes finally came you could tell that most of the medals were scratched in there as well. They went through a few boxes and I watched them shake their heads as they kept going through them. Eventually they brought over handfuls and called people over to compare and trade. When I was called over the woman I saw had medals with plastic between each one, so I was able to get one that looked good. I wonder how many extra they had, and if they were able to get everyone a medal that was in decent condition!

I have very few photos from after the race this day, but I know I realized I lost my goodr sunglasses at some point during the early part of the race so I went back to the expo to replace them. While I was there I tried on Oofos for the first time, but they didn't have my size. No worries for my wallet though, because I also tried on Shokz for the first time and bought them . We did EPCOT at some point that afternoon, and I mobile ordered dinner at the resort before 6:00pm so I could go to bed early this time. I was really enjoying this race weekend, but had some mixed feelings about going into the marathon the next morning. I was excited to be so close to finishing my first Dopey, sad that it meant the race weekend was almost over, and a little anxious about running the marathon after doing three races before it! I had to check us in for our SW flight 24 hours before, so I set an alarm on my phone so I wouldn't forget. I was in bed and had fallen asleep, so when my alarm went off I sat up, checked us in, and then went back to sleep!

 

[Livelovedance]

Marathon Weekend 2023
Sunday, January 8 - WDW Marathon

I know I made the meetup for a little while (only because I remember chatting with @NYC_MW who had offered to pick up a pair of goodrs for me yesterday!). I did a pre race photo with Megara, and decided if I felt up to it at the end of the race I'd try to get one with Clopin. I made my way to corral C for the last time this weekend. I was a little cold and tired, so I sat for a little while until the corral started moving up to the start. I wasn't nervous about finishing the race, but I wasn't thrilled about being up this early for the 4th morning in a row. It's completely true when people say the hardest part of Dopey is the 4 early wake ups!

I started the race today at 5:15am. Again, caught slightly off guard, but we were off!


Photo Time Stamps:
Movie signs 5:18am

Cruella (blurry shot as I passed by) 5:23am
Mile 1 Marker 5:33am
Sarge (shot as I passed by) 5:38am
Mile 2 Marker 5:49am
Hades (blurry shot as I passed by) 5:59am

Believe it or not, I had to go to the bathroom AGAIN, which made the beginning of this race not so fun. Luckily I was able to stop in EPCOT right by Spaceship Earth. The line was a little long, but I was not willing to go through what I went through yesterday so I just waited.

Shot of Spaceship Earth 6:02am
Mile 3 Marker 6:12am
5K flag 6:13am
Mighty Ducks video screens 6:21am

I don't know why, especially because it was so early in the race, but this was a feel good moment! I was surprised by how many groups I saw throughout the race weekend that wore Mighty Ducks jerseys. I never would've thought of that movie!

Mile 4 Marker 6:26am
More movie signs 6:27am
Mile 5 Marker 6:40am
Mile 6 Marker 6:53am
Mile 7 Marker 7:08am
Magic Kingdom parking (from the side) 7:10am
Tigger and Eeyore (as I passed by, I don't remember why I didn't stop for this one but it was a cute one!) 7:21am
Mile 8 Marker 7:21am
Mile 9 Marker 7:36am
Mile 10 Marker 7:50am
Beast (as I passed by) 7:59am
Pluto (stopped for this one because I didn't get him on 5K day) 8:05am
Mile 11 Marker 8:10am
Mile 12 Marker 8:24am
Dopey! 8:37am (I didn't think I'd be able to get this shot during the race, but the line wasn't terrible so I waited for it!)
Mickey Golf Cart (I've never seen a PhotoPass for this and there was no line so I stopped.) 8:46am
Mile 13 Marker 8:47am

Someone had taken a fall somewhere around this point, and it wasn't the first fall I witnessed this weekend...

Old ride vehicles 8:57am
Goofy and Max dancing to Powerline 9:01am
Mile 14 Marker 9:04am
Adventurer's Club? (as I passed by) 9:08am
Mile 15 Marker 9:20am
Perfect Marathoner PhotoPass (I didn't stop for this one because I'm not a Perfect Marathoner, but I thought it was a nice touch) 9:27am
Mile 16 Marker 9:34am

At some point soon after entering AK I made another bathroom stop. Not exactly sure where it fell but I was learning from previous mistakes lol.

Everest in the background PhotoPass (I'm too afraid to ride this, but I'll take the background shot!) 9:53am
Mile 17 Marker 9:56am
Mile 18 Marker 10:11am
Snake (as I passed by) 10:13am


Mile 19 Marker 10:26am
Mile 20 Marker 10:40am
Alligator in the distance by water stop! 10:44am


Blizzard Beach lol 10:53am
Mile 21 Marker 10:56am
Donald Duck (I was dressed as Donald Duck, and had the best race character interaction EVER at this stop. I had wanted to give my cell phone to the CM but she was talking to the photographer and never offered to take it, so I didn't get shots of the interaction, but I was thrilled. So glad I switched costumes yesterday!) 11:02am
35K flag 11:10am
Mile 22 Marker 11:14am
Mile 23 Marker 11:30am
40K flag 11:57am
Mile 25 Marker 11:59am
Jeff Galloway (as I passed by) 12:11pm
Mile 26 Marker 12:14pm

My Apple Watch died toward the end of the run (I want to say right around where I passed Jeff Galloway), and for some reason it only recorded 0.52 miles. I think I'm going to end up deleting that run and manually adding my Garmin stats.

Garmin (total time on course, including photo stops)
Miles = 27.26
Avg. Pace = 15'26"
Time = 7:00:49
Laps =
Mile 1 - 16:53 pace
Mile 2 - 15:12 pace
Mile 3 - 21:29 pace
Mile 4 - 12:28 pace
Mile 5 - 13:31 pace
Mile 6 - 13:52 pace
Mile 7 - 14:13 pace
Mile 8 - 13:23 pace
Mile 9 - 13:30 pace
Mile 10 - 15:00 pace
Mile 11 - 16:33 pace
Mile 12 - 15:23 pace
Mile 13 - 20:57 pace
Mile 14 - 15:42 pace
Mile 15 - 16:07 pace
Mile 16 - 14:23 pace
Mile 17 - 14:52 pace
Mile 18 - 19:45 pace
Mile 19 - 15:19 pace
Mile 20 - 13:52 pace
Mile 21 - 14:33 pace
Mile 22 - 15:30 pace
Mile 23 - 17:11 pace
Mile 24 - 16:08 pace
Mile 25 - 14:09 pace
Mile 26 - 13:32 pace
Mile 27 - 13:57 pace
0.26 - 1:07 pace

At the end of the race I received my medals (Marathon, Goofy, and Dopey) and checked all three for scratches before leaving the reunion area. I noticed they had the plastic between each medal as they were handing them out, so I guess they learned from yesterday!

I did my finisher photo, and saw Clopin was still there with a short line so I took a photo with him. I was there for a bit, so when I heard them announce the last runner was coming in, I stopped to watch.

Afterwards I stopped at Joffrey's for a cold Golden Stardust drink before heading back to the resort. I couldn't believe it. I had finished Dopey!


The rest of the day was incredibly hectic. I grabbed food from the quick service at the resort, went back to the room to shower and eat (I had reserved the room for the night so we'd have a place to stay afterwards), and then took the boat to MK to try to get medal photos and see if it was at all possible to get my ears embroidered. We walked into the shop, saw the amount of ears that were there, and decided against it. There just wasn't enough time. I did get some photos done but the photographers weren't helping with medal placement so they didn't come out great. Luckily I was planning on bringing them back after Springtime Surprise for a Capture Your Moment session, but I wanted a photo that day and I did get a couple okay shots.

By the time I got back to the room I was basically throwing my things into my suitcase and getting ready to head to the airport. Security was fine, but for some reason our flight was out of a gate in the other side of the airport that we've never been to before. It seemed to be for international travel. The gate wasn't even set up for SW so boarding was insane, but we eventually got on the plane and I slept the whole way home!

 

[avondale]

Congratulations! It's belated for MW but not too late compared to your post. I was picturing you starting the HM walking along in a robe and got a good laugh at it. I usually save long sleeve/pants PJs that I am retiring as throw-away clothes, but a robe is better!

 

[Livelovedance]

2023 Marathon Weekend - Dopey Challenge
Goals Check-In and Final Thoughts

Goals (from the 2023 MW thread):
Complete the training
- I missed one training run because I fell asleep, and I couldn't complete one as scheduled due to illness, but other than that I think I can say I accomplished this one.
Finish all 4 races feeling good
- Definitely accomplished
Plan and execute 4 race outfits/costumes in advance that I'm happy with
- My outfits/costumes weren't elaborate, but they were deliberately planned out and I was happy with my choices!
Stop for character photos I'm interested in, even if the lines are long
- Not a complete accomplishment. I did skip Chip and Dale during the 5K, but I semi made up for it when I waited over an hour and a half for them after the 10K!
Get enough rest each day so I can enjoy the entire process
- Also not a complete accomplishment, but I did still enjoy every race!
Allow myself to purchase something special to commemorate my first Dopey Challenge
- I purchased way too much at the expo, but I was happy with what I got. I'm hoping to book a Capture Your Moment session after Springtime to celebrate all of my 2023 runDisney accomplishments.
Make time for great medal photos before flying home Sunday
- Not accomplished. I did get medal photos, but they weren't great, and I just didn't have time to try for more.

Goals (from this training journal):
To complete my first Dopey Challenge using my current 1:15/30 intervals, stopping for photos and having a great time
- Accomplished!
To be able to walk at work the following day
- Accomplished!


Post Race thoughts...
- I saw two instances where a runner almost fell over a small child during the 5K. Two different children in two separate locations. The second one actually frightened me because I watched the young child stop to pick up something off of the floor as the runner came by and it could've been very dangerous for both of them.

- Speaking of falls, I watched a runner trip and fall on one of the speed bumps under the Magic Kingdom parking sign, and it was terrible. It happened right in front of me so myself and a couple other runners stopped to make sure she was okay, but it shook me a little. I don’t know if it's because I did 4 races, but I feel like I saw a lot more falls this weekend than I ever have in the past.

- I can't believe I'm even saying this, but I might join Club runDisney. The money is astronomical, but after this weekend I realized I either need to get really fast (not likely) or join Club runDisney. I was in corral C so I wasn't completely in the back, but I can't tell you how many times I heard people referencing the balloon ladies starting from the very beginning of each race! Although, if people joined for the coral bump it probably happens in their higher corral too lol. I also would’ve liked the early merch shopping opportunity - while it was nice to not have to get there super early, once I was in there it was just too chaotic. I can’t imagine having to work there...

Final Thoughts
I had an amazing time at the 2023 MW. Now that I had the opportunity to experience the entire event, start to finish, I understand why so many people say it's their favorite. I wish my work schedule made it possible for me to participate regularly! I'm so proud of all that I accomplished during this training cycle and race weekend. A huge thank you to @DopeyBadger for your training plans and advice. You are quite literally changing lives and I’m so grateful for all of your support! I'd also like to thank @Herding_Cats, @The Expert, @NYC_MW, @lookingforsunshine, and anyone else I met at the DIS meetups (sorry if I missed anyone, I'm terrible with names!) for being so kind each morning. I can get very anxious in social situations, but each of you made me feel welcome and included!

 

[Livelovedance]

Congratulations! It's belated for MW but not too late compared to your post. I was picturing you starting the HM walking along in a robe and got a good laugh at it. I usually save long sleeve/pants PJs that I am retiring as throw-away clothes, but a robe is better!

Thank you! I know, I'm so glad to finally have made time for this trip report lol.

I did have sweatpants but I knew it wouldn't be enough, so I'm glad I saw that robe in Walmart. I'm sure I looked ridiculous but I was probably the warmest person in the corrals!

 

[Livelovedance]

Sunday, January 15, 2023
After Dopey I basically worked, and slept. I consciously decided to rest for a week before running again. Before race weekend I also decided to sign up for a 4 week 5K race series that I do fairly regularly. I would be missing the first one for MW, but it was still worth the price to sign up for the series (rather than signing up for the rest of the races individually). I figured it would keep me accountable for running at least once a week after Dopey. So today was my first run post Dopey, and it was windy and COLD.

Weather Conditions: Partly Cloudy/Wind
T&D: 36 + 25 = 61
Feels Like: 25
Wind: N 22 mph
Humidity: 65%
UV Index: 2
Running Conditions Index: 3

I went into this race with 0 expectations, except to finish. I wished that the conditions were better, but I was dressed appropriately and knew I just needed to get out there and do it. I knew I'd feel better once I was out there, and I just needed to start. I wore my Shokz for the first time, and I completely understand the hype now!

I don't know if it was the cold, or just coming off of Dopey training, or both, but I honestly impressed myself with my finish time:
NRC
Miles = 3.16
Avg. Pace = 11'40"
Time = 0:36:55
Splits =
Mile 1 - 12'16"
Mile 2 - 11'41"
Mile 3 - 11'29"
0.16 - 9'04"

Garmin
Miles = 3.17
Avg. Pace = 11'39"
Time = 0:36:56
Laps =
Mile 1 - 12:14 pace
Mile 2 - 11:51 pace
Mile 3 - 11:23 pace
0.17 - 8:41 pace

Race Finish: 0:36:47

When I bought my training journal (started February 2021), I decided to start keeping track of PRs starting from that year. Without trying to, I beat my (as of 2021) 5K PR today. The only push I made was towards the end, and I felt good the entire time.

The only semi-downer was a comment made to me at the end of the race regarding my intervals. I'm sure this person meant no harm, but no one should be made to feel like they're not trying or working hard enough just because they choose to use a run/walk method. Thankfully I've grown confident enough in my running over the past couple years that I don't take offense, but I know if that conversation had been had years ago, it would've been a heartbreaker. "My race, my pace" is a reality!

 

[Livelovedance]

Sunday, January 22, 2023
I felt good after last week's run, but I still didn't get any additional runs done afterwards. I'm still busy and tired after work so I just haven't made the time. I've done some stretching during the week, but that's about it. I had planned to do a short 2 mile run on Friday, but on Thursday night I experienced excruciating pain in my calf laying in bed (I went to stretch and my calf just seized up). I don't know if it was a Charley horse, but it stopped me from attempting the run that day.

Today was the next race in the 5K series. It was chilly, but not as cold as last week.

Weather Conditions: Cloudy
T&D: 41 + 29 = 70
Feels Like: 36
Wind: S 8 mph
Humidity: 61%
UV Index: 1
Running Conditions Index: 4

I went into this race with no goal in mind other than to finish. My calf was feeling better (it was a little sore still on Saturday, but better today), and I didn't want to push it and risk anything. I started the race feeling fine, and since I did I decided to attempt to lengthen my run a bit just to see how I felt. During my second walk break, a runner yelled something to me (which I heard half of once I realized he was talking to me) that at first hurt me, and then aggravated me. I know some of us get tired of Carissa, but clearly she's on to something when she says to be kind to each other and remember that you don't know everyone's story. I tried to brush it off, but it motivated me to push harder and prove him wrong. I kept up with him for the first mile (running and occasionally walking), and then stopped and reminded myself to run my own race.

In miles 2 and 3 I ran more continuously because I felt fine doing it, and walked every so often when my Garmin reminded me to if I wanted to. I ran most of the last mile, and pushed myself to the finish. And in doing so, I made a new 5K PR!

NRC
Miles = 3.14
Avg. Pace = 11'03"
Time = 0:34:40
Splits =
Mile 1 - 11'15"
Mile 2 - 11'15"
Mile 3 - 10'51"
0.14 - 9'31"

Garmin
Miles = 3.19
Avg. Pace = 10'52"
Time = 0:34:41
Laps =
Mile 1 - 11:04 pace
Mile 2 - 11:00 pace
Mile 3 - 10:52 pace
0.19 - 9:05 pace

Race Finish: 0:34:35

While I'm not proud of the circumstances, I am proud of how far I've come. I'm a 2 time marathoner and a 1 time Dopey Challenge finisher. Despite what others may think, I'm a runner, whether or not I do it the way others expect me to. This week I'm going to attempt a couple short runs on the treadmill, and then I have my last 5K local race. After that, it's Princess Weekend! I have to plan for some intentional runs between now and then, but I'm looking forward to another great race weekend!

 

[DopeyBadger]

 

[GollyGadget]

Ughh, people can be so rude. I’m glad you were able to brush it off.

 

[avondale]

You keep doing you. With all those races - and all that distance - you are a heck of a runner!

 

[WillRunForPizza]

Great job!