It’s been a pretty good week of runs/workouts. I’ve been adjusting to the warmer weather and the non-stop wall of wind. I also started up with hill repeats again – which means track work is soon to follow…So, good times?
Ha, in other good times, I was able to join TNSR for a run too. Only problem was the SWARMING TARANTULA ATTACK!
Our runs are so dangerous!
OK, maybe “attack” is an exaggeration. There was just one fuzzy little guy on the trail.
He’s not so bad.
I actually see those suckers fairly frequently on my runs. They won’t bother you, and they eat a lot of bugs and things that I don’t like, so we’re cool. All you have to do is hop over them and continue on your way!
After all, there’s a margarita at the finish…
Even the margarita has bunny ears this close to Easter.
Now for the marathon news!!! I’m very excited for this! VERY! This will be my 5th full marathon. Every other one I’ve done was at Disney World. And while they’re a ton of fun, man, that humidity just takes it out of you.
After the Disney 6 Dopey Challenge last year.
I’ve also made some training mistakes in preparing for those marathons. That’s ok, you learn and move on. And now I hope to take that knowledge (and hopefully lower humidity) and finally have a good showing in a 26.2 mile race.
My shoes and socks after my very first marathon. Told you I made some mistakes. Try not to barf.
But which marathon is it? Well, you’ll have to wait a few days to hear that news (I need to prepare a few things first). Sorry to be a tease. 😉
I will give you a few hints: It’s in the USA. It’s in the Fall. I may or may not celebrate afterwards with a billy goat.
Can you guess which marathon I’m going to run? What’s something you’ve learned from running? Ever jump over a tarantula?
-Scott
PS – COME BACK IN A FEW DAYS TO HEAR ALL ABOUT MY NEW MARATHON!!!
So the weather finally cooperated (no more icy roads) and I felt fairly healthy again, so it was back to runnin! I ran each day last week, including a long run with the White Rock Running Co-op. Felt good to be back out there after nearly 2 weeks off!
The route we ran. Started/Ended with hills while the lake was sandwiched in between.
Who Ray that was fun!
After the run, we got breakfast tacos…natch! And I’m glad we did because it gave me a chance to catch up with some run buds.
How can it be butt burnin if it’s only medium heat?
One of these run buds is in the I Run 4 program. If you’re not familiar with IR4, here’s what it says on their website:
“In I Run 4 Michael, Athletes of all levels and kinds – runners, walkers, yogis, triathletes, etc – are paired with children and adults with physical, mental, and developmental special-needs ranging from Down Syndrome and Cerebral Palsy to Autism Spectrum disorders, to physical deformities and disorders like lost limbs and congenital organ disorders, to lesser-known disorders like AHC.”
It’s a pretty cool program. A lot of these kids aren’t able to run, so when someone runs 4 them, they usually share with them how many miles. After special events like races, quite often they send the kids their medals/shirts.
For the past few months, I’ve been giving race medals to my bud so he can send them to the girl he’s matched up with.
Me & Clay and the chocolate bar medal he’s going to send the girl.
It’s always great to hear back that the kid was so excited to receive her new bling. I’m really glad it can bring a smile to her face!!!
Now yes, I do love my race bling too. And my own kids always love it when I bring a new medal home. So what I usually do now is explain to the race people what I’m doing and if I can have an extra medal for the girl. So far so good!
Here’s me in a homemade tank top hugging a unicorn for some reason. In the background you can see where I hang my race medals.
Not only do the kids love what comes from being in this program, but it can help the athletes too. When things get tough in a race, thinking of the kid you run 4 will help you keep going! That’s for sure!
How bout you? Have you heard of IR4? Do you know Who Ray is? Should I start a homemade tank top business?
This weekend is the Disney Marathon Weekend. I have run the 26.2 magical miles x’s 4. And last year I ran the inaugural Dopey Challenge – 4 straight days, 4 straight races – Thurs 5k, Fri 10k, Sat 13.1, Sun 26.2. For all those running any of the events this weekend, or thinking about running in the future, here’s my official guide.
BE SURE TO CLICK ON THE RECAP LINKS BELOW FOR TONS OF PICS/VIDS/INSIGHT!!!!
The 6 Dopey Challenge Medals.
1. The Expo!
Yup, that’s an expo.
The Expo is Huuuuuuge. It’s takes over three buildings at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. You pick up your race packets, you get to see famous expert speakers, and you shop. You can shop for miles. It can be pretty overwhelming, but luckily there is a bar on hand where you can relax with a cold one, if you so desire.
Our boy has run the Kids’ Race x’s 3. The races also take place at the ESPN sports complex. Distances depend on age and desire, from the 100 to a mile. And yes, parents can run with their kids. And yes, it can be pretty chaotic. The start times, corrals, etc. can AND DO change at the drop of a hat. My advice: Be early, be ready, be flexible. They are a lot of fun though, and it’s great to get kids involved in the marathon weekend.
To read my full in depth Kids’ Races recap, CLICK HERE NOW!
3. The 5k (or Day 1 of the Dopey Challenge)!
All smiles at the finish photo line!
The 5k takes place on Thursday at the parking lot of Epcot. The race itself basically takes you in and around the theme park. It’s actually kind of neat to be in the park before it’s open. They still have characters you can take pictures with, and tons of volunteers to cheer for you. And just like that, it’s over. A quick 3.1 miles through Epcot.
Don’t really need gloves in Florida heat, but ya know…
2014 was the also the inaugural 10k. I gotta say, this was probably the least exciting of all the races. Again, you start/end at Epcot, but the first 3 miles you are on the dark roads outside the park. There’s a little entertainment, but mostly it’s silent. The second 3 miles you do run through a resort before entering Epcot to the finish – that part is fun!
5. The Half Marathon (or Day 3 of Dopey & Day 1 of The Goofy Challenge)
Yes, I wore a child’s Snow White apron.
The half marathon again starts/ends at Epcot. The difference is here that you do an out and back from the park to Magic Kingdom and back. The highlight is running through Magic Kingdom (and thru Cinderella’s Castle), but in between the two parks, again you’re just running on roads. Of course, they do have people cheering, characters, entertainment, and there’s more to see (resorts, etc.). And this race can be a lot of fun.
To read my full in depth Half Marathon recap, CLICK HERE NOW!
6. The Marathon (or Day 4 of Dopey & Day 2 of Goofy)
Medals 6/6 (includes Dopey & Goofy bonus medals)
The marathon is the shining jewel of the whole weekend. The granddaddy. The big kahuna. And it’s my favorite as well. Over the course of 26.2 miles, you go through all the theme parks (Epcot, Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios) as well as through several resorts and also a lap on the race car track and a jaunt through the ESPN sports complex (incl. a lap on the track & baseball stadium). There is excellent support along the course & tons of entertainment. This is Disney at it’s best. They pull out all the bells & whistles. Really a magical marathon.
Of course, Disney is a big draw. Not only for tourists, but for runners as well. I’m really happy that at the Disney races I’ve run, I’ve been able to meet-up with so many long lost (and new) friends. At the Dopey Challenge, I couldn’t believe how many old friends, fellow bloggers, etc. that I had the fortune to meet up with.
Of course, Orlando is a huge tourist destination. There’s tons to do and see there. Disney World has so much to offer. But so do others, such as Universal. So many rides, foods, drinks, good times.
To see my in depth recap of how we celebrated CLICK HERE NOW!
9. Finally, Be Thankful!
Anyone who runs, knows it takes a lot of support. Months and months of early morning miles can’t happen without the support of family, friends, social media pals, etc. This was not lost on me when I was Dopey last year. And so I made sure to thank everyone – from fellow runners to fellow bloggers to the fams.
So to all you who are running in any or all of the races this Disney Marathon Weekend, I wish you the bestest of luck! Whether you’re running or not, or just thinking about running this event in the future – hit me up with any questions you have! I’ll try to help! Soooooo……
Today’s Question: What Disney Marathon Weekend questions do you have for me?
Welp, we’ve dun it. Anuther trip around the sun. Looking back, 2014 was a pretty decent year. Let’s take a peek at a few hightlights, shall we?
It kicked off with a BANG! In January I ran the Disney World Dopey & Goofy Challenge. That’s 4 straight days, 4 straight races.
The 6 Dopey Challenge Medals.
Day 1 – Thursday – 5k (3.1 miles)
Medal 1/6 gotten!
Day 2 – Friday – 10k (6.2 miles)
Medal 2/6 got.
Day 3 – Saturday – Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
Medals 3/6 got.
Day 4 – Sunday – Full Marathon (26.2 miles)
Medals 6/6 (includes Dopey & Goofy bonus medals)
All in all, it was a magical 48.6 miles.
Running at Epcot, waving to my fans.
Included in the weekend was the Kids’ Race, where the soon to be 5 year old rocked it!
Medals for everyone!
Oh, and did I mention my sis and ma also did the Dopey?
At Magic Kingdom with our medals.
Shortly afterwards though, I was going for a run, tripped, felled, and Nancy Kerriganed my own knee.
Put me out of commission for a little while.
I was able to eventually get active again by doing a lot of yoga in a retail store.
Cat, cow, what difference does it make?
I really think yoga is important for everyone – including runners. So I do a lot of it. And besides…
#NotCreepyatAll
Another part of my cross training is lifting weights. And besides…
Dumbells make you smart…and sexy.
I also like to mix up my runs with track work. And besides…
Track work makes you sexy. Here’s the proof!
Trail runs are also great. And besides…
#truth #obviously
Eventually my knee felt better and I got back on the roads with some of my fave people. Like Thursday Night Social Runners.
TNSR, Representin
And also my crazy early morning elfen crew.
They like to run at like 5am. They cray cray.
I also made a few Luke’s Locker social trail runs.
Run trails, eat pancakes. Repeat.
And the White Rock Running Co-op, who really helped me to become a better runner this year.
WRRC. Good runners.
To help fuel my workouts, I ate lots of tacos. Lots.
Legit, son!
In between training, I also got to see some of my fave bands…like at this FREE concert – The Killers!
About 30 rows deep, my mouth a gasp with excitement.
And the Old 97’s.
Seen this band countless times.
And I was super thrilled to see the traveling Broadway show, based on the movie – Once!
And I got to make my annual Jimmy Buffett concert experience…TWICE!
JB concert #1. Just call me Front Row Joe.
JB concert #2. Things get wild at the tailgate parties…trust me!
I also got to hangout on stage during a Graceland Ninjaz concert.
On stage open mouth selfie.
As well as Pentatonix.
I liked to imagine they were all cheering for me (they may have been).
They were amongst the Celebs that got to hang out with me this year.
They asked me to join the group based on some of my youtube karaoke videos.
And my model friend Brooke Becker.
She’s kewl.
And long time friend, fashion blogger, and TV host, Hilary Kennedy.
We had to wear our shades because of the flashes from the paparazzi.
And all around media star, and long long time friend, Ashley Kamrath.
At the Emmy’s. We didn’t win this year, but we’ll get again next year!
And I made another video with friend & TV host, Emily Reppert.
On the set with my actor friends.
And I made a new BFF when I interviewed Olympic gold medalist, Jennie Finch.
See, told ya we were new BFF’s.
And my Dallas Half Marathon Champion friend, Logan Sherman.
Logan, Me, Patrick. Mustachioed.
And model/actor buddy, Shane Land.
We have played brothers in two movies. Can you see the resemblance?
And a Dallas Cowboy – Charles Haley.
A couple of legends.
Anyways, back to running. I ran a bunch of races. Starting with Abby’s Run 5k, where I won my age group!
Yay! I got a photo with Abby (who the race is named for) and her mom. Ann photobombed us.
Then came the Rock the Block 10k. New PR – 46:00!
And we’re off! -Photo from Dallasnews.com
During the months of Texas heat, it was really hot, so I only ran a few unofficial races. Like the Boston Marathon virtual run.
And the America, F**k Yeah 4th of July 10k.
Censored Bling
And the TNSR Beer Mile.
This was a bad idea.
Then came the Fall. Autumn is always a time of change. For us, a big change was the boy starting kindergarten. Where does the time go???
He’s grown about 5 times his size. Based on that growth rate, I figure he’ll be about 80 feet tall by his 20’s.
I even volunteered to coach his soccer team. That was a lot of fun!
Landsharks on three!
And the little girl just keeps growing too!
Stop looking at me swan.
Fall also saw a lot of PR changes. Starting with the Oktoberfest 5k – 21:33. When you PR, you have to celebrate…
They love me.
Next up was the Dallas Mavericks 5k. Another PR!
The Mavs Dancers asked to have their photo taken with me. I obliged.
Speaking of which, my brother ran his first half marathon this fall! And my dad is running his first half in January 2015!
Dad, Bro, Me at an FC Dallas game this fall.
The next PR to fall was at the Dallas 13.1 – 1:42:59!
Bottle opener medal.
Next was the annual Halloween fun run.
Our costumed group.
One sad change was that we lost our oldest doggy this fall. She was such a great pup.
sweet Bailey girl
But in happier times, I set another PR at the North Texas Turkey Trot 5k 20:04. Bummer was the course being .1 miles short.
Stop looking at me turkey.
Next up was the Rudolph Run 5k. And yet another PR – officially 21:29, but my watch had the course being long. According to it I came across at 20:50-something. Either way, I got 2nd in my age group!
Last year’s race was cancelled due to ice. So I got two medals!
The final race of 2014 was the Dallas Half marathon. No PR this day, but still got my 2nd fastest half – 1:45:01.
Big state, little medal.
And as part of the Dallas Marathon festivities, I got to meet MEB!!!!!!
Me n Meb
The end of the year was spent with friends and family for the holidays.
Looking back, it was a pretty good year. Lots of tacos, shows, good times, and running. In fact, I went over 1,200 miles on my feet. I even surpassed 5,000 miles total with my Nike+ watch – starting when I got it a few years ago.
5 g’s over the past few years.
Here’s hoping 2015 will be even better! Happy New Year, y’all!
Today’s only question: What’s your top 2014 highlight?
So now we’re in December. Around here that means it’s almost time for the Dallas Marathon. I am not running the Full, but I am running the Half. I think I’m in pretty good shape for it. I finished November with a bang, including a 13.1 mile training run.
I ran this one solo. It was windy and lonely.
The next day I ran another 6 or 7 on the trails with friends. I had to leave right after to get to yoga class, so I was missed out on the groupie…
Imagine me in this picture.
So for the month of November, I ended up going 156+ miles! I think that’s the furthest I’ve gone in a month…Even more than when I was training for the Dopey Challenge. I think the most I did then was 140+.
With my Dopey Medals.
I’ve found that having that many miles on my feet is really helping to get faster. Especially in “short” races like the 5k I PR’d in on Thanksgiving. I feel like it’s much less of a struggle to maintain a faster speed.
Something smelled fowl.
Speaking of racing, I have some new race news. I sneakily snuck in at the beginning of this post how I’m running the Dallas Half Marathon in Mid December. That’s new. I’ve only run this race once, but it was a few years ago and the course is cooooompletely different now.
A few years ago. I’m a baloonatic.
Aaand I’m also running a 5k this weekend! It’s the Rudolph Run in Allen, TX. I’ve never run this race, but excited to. Only weird thing is that I will be wearing a GoPro camera on my head. Hopefully it won’t mess with me too much. I wore one during the 10k portion of the Dopey, but I was just jogging that race. You can see the video HERE.
With the GoPro camera (& Mickey ears/hands)
Annnnywaay, I hope everyone had a good American Thanksgiving. I enjoyed many leftovers, until I finally ran out. It was sad to have to quit cold turkey.
Me about to quit cold turkey. (Yes, I went there.)
On a side note, things have been crazy around these parts. I know I’ve been somewhat missing around the blog world recently, but I have a good reason. I hope to explain in my next post. I appreciate y’all that have been checking in on me. I’m sorry I haven’t gotten back to most of you yet, but I will. Hope you’re awesome!
How bout you? Got any races coming up? Gettin your miles in? Ever run with a camera on your head?
This should be the last Dopey Challenge post (unless I come up with something else later). If you missed any of my other Dopey Recaps, you can see them here: Expo, Kids Race, 5k, 10k, 13.1, 26.2, Post Run, & Meet-Ups.
Much like my first marathon (Disney 2008), my sister is the one who urged me to register for this challenge. So first shout outs go to her.
2008 – First marathon experience was painful.
Not only for that, but also running with me (and finishing herself), driving us around, letting us stay at her place, and getting us into the theme parks. Here’s a tip for anyone wanting to run a Disney race – try to get a sibling that works there, it has its benefits, ha!
Us runnin through Cinderella’s Castle.
Another shout out goes to her roommate. She had to put up with a few things, like us crowding up their place. But more importantly she put up with a few days of watching Disney Jr non-stop on the TV as her and her beau watched the boy when we were up early for the races. She also was able to bring him to the final race in time for us to cross the finish line. Then she took him into Epcot while we went to meet our ma when she finished.
Glad they were able to make some roomie.
Speaking of which, more shout outs to the mom for not only paying for a couple meals and groceries, but also some theme park photos. She also gets props for finishing the Dopey herself. I’ve had many comments from people on how impressed they are with that last fact. She had never run a full marathon before, and was able to do that after three days of consecutive races. Not only that, but she finished it faster and stronger than a lot of people who didn’t run the previous three days.
Her arms were being ripped out of their sockets.
Also, I need to shout out to all the bloggers who supported me through all the training and races. The amount of positive messages you sent was unbelievable! I don’t want to leave anyone out, so I won’t mention specific people, but know that I appreciate it!
That also goes for all my friends and family who supported me either with words, messages, or even running with me! Like my “coach” Rexy and the fine folks at Thursday Night Social Run and Project Run 214. As well as my yoga instructor and chiropractor who helped keep me injury free during all those training miles.
My constant companion, the training sched.
Finally, I have to thank the immediate family for putting up with my months of training. I tried to do it without inconveniencing anyone – like running in the wee hours before they were awake – but I know there were a few times when I did. So thanks for TCB and allowing me to put in the hours!
So now it’s time to move on to new challenges. I look forward to continued support as well as supporting everyone else as they take on their endeavors! Let’s do this!
What challenges are you looking forward to? What kind of support do you get?
If you missed any of my recaps of the Dopey Challenge, you can see them here: 5k, 10k, 13.1, 26.2.
After we finished the Dopey Challenge, it was time to celebrate. I learned a few years back to book a few days AFTER a destination race to do the sightseeing (not before!).
It’s official – I’m Dopey and Goofy.
And props to the boy for putting up with being in Orland for 4 days without visiting a theme park! Now he was to get his long awaited reward!
He was all smiles by now (and stole my sister’s hat).
Immediately after the final race (26.2), which ended at Epcot, we went ahead into the park. They have a few fun rides there, though most of em aren’t all that exciting (the boy likes them though). A lot of people visit for the different countries (some like to drink around the world). There’s a pub there where we had a celebratory Guinness or two. Then we ate some tacos in Mexico. To be honest, after running four races through Epcot, I was ready for a change of scenery.
After four days of running through Epcot, it was time to wave goodbye.
The next day my mom, sis, the boy and I hit up the Magic Kingdom. It was fun to be there without having to run through it like we had in the previous days!
We chose an unique location for a photo. OK, everyone who visits takes the same snapshot.
Yes, we wore our Dopey medals – When else would we get a chance? It’s also a great conversation starter with other runners, and non runners alike. The amount of “Congrats!” we got was unbelievable…especially from the “cast members” (Disney employees).
On the Buzz Lightyear ride with the boy. It was very exciting (it’s always good to know where the cameras are).
I’ve always loved the Magic Kingdom. I’m constantly amazed by their attention to detail and cleanliness. And this visit, we got a rare treat. They are redesigning Fantasyland and as part of that the Beauty and the Beast portion has a new castle restaurant. It’s a 6 month wait for reservations, but we were able to snag one that day! LUCKY!
Just a couple o’ sad gargoyles outside the castle entrance.
And while you can have an adult bevie at other Disney parks, never ever could you at Magic Kingdom (unless you sneak it in, I suppose, like a teenager injecting vodka into oranges, and then eating the oranges in the park). But now at dinner service only, you can order a drinky poo. My sis and I had some wine.
We so fancy.
And remember the attention to detail I mentioned…even the napkins were folded like the Beast’s enchanted rose.
We had until the last petal fell off to find true love. Or until we finished eating at least.
The “real” rose.
We went ahead and made this our celebratory meal. Though I didn’t pig out on fatty food like we’re supposed to post big races. They had some wild Scottish salmon that I had to get.
I know I kind of ruined the presentation when I added the broccoli (that the boy didn’t want to eat).
I also actually had a desert. I never have dessert. No real sweet tooth in my mouth.
We like to hug before dessert.
After we ate, we had an audience with the host of our meal.
He was very gracious and has the most stunning blue eyes.
We spent the rest of the day riding rides (of course I had to go on Pirates of the Caribbean)!
Capt. Grif didn’t like the flash on my phone.
It was another great visit to Magic Kingdom!
The same castle as earlier, but at night.
The next day we hit up Universal Studios. I love their theme parks!!! No, they aren’t as clean, classy, and family oriented as Disney, but they have some really extreme and fun rides! This time around we hit up the new Simpsons Springfield.
We got a Duff beer at Moe’s Tavern!
But then I had a misunderstanding with the chief.
One of the coolest new rides was the Transformers one. And outside they had Bumblebee. This was an actual moving character, not a statue….
I guess that’s my “Transformers” pose.
And of course we had to stop by Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville. I am a huuuge Parrothead, so this is always a must!
Booze in the blender…
The next day, we hit up one more park – Disney’s Hollywood Studios (formerly MGM). Again, it was fun to be there leisurely and not all sweaty like when we ran though it for the marathon.
Big wizard hat.
The highlight here was for the boy. He had been waiting a year to be chosen to fight Darth Vader at the Star Wars part of the park. This year he made it in got some light saber training from his Jedi master.
Like a choreographed dance they were.
Then he got to fight the dark lord himself!
Attack the dark side!
Then we took a ride on one of those things they rode in one of those movies.
Look out for that tree!
And we were able to meet up with the man mouse himself, Mickey!
He hadn’t had time to change out of his robe yet.
And thus concluded our Disney adventure. I must say we had a lot of fun and I tip my hat to them!
See what I did there?
So there it is!
How bout you? Do you plan vacations around races? Do you sight see before or after? What’s your fave Orlando attraction?
This is it. The last race of four on consecutive days. If you missed my recaps of the earlier races, you can see them here: 5k then 10k then 13.1 half marathon.
Now we have the 26.2 full marathon to complete the Goofy and Dopey Challenges. I had stuck to my plan of running personal worsts (PW) for the first three races. Now I wanted to go for it in the final race.
Ready to go 26.2 rounds with Mr. Mile.
My “A” goal was to break 4 hours (9:10 per mile). Considering my pace at shorter distances, I should be able to shatter 4 hours, but I have yet to do it. My “B” goal was to PR (PB). I would accomplish one of the two goals.
Traditional pre-race family photo.
We got a gift this day from the Weather Channel gods. The temps went from hot and humid the day before at the half, to chilly (and a little humid) for the full!!! It was in the 50’s (American) at the start!
With Sis on way to the corral!
Even thought it was chilly, I knew my body temp would warm up once we started running, so I wore light clothes – including a new Ohio University tech tee that the wife got me for Christmas!
Ain’t I purdy?
I also carried the GoPro camera with me. Looking back, it probably was a bad decision considering I was going for a PR. It definitely took energy and brain power (I don’t have much to spare) to use it throughout the course. But I decided to take it anyway, and I don’t really regret that. We did pass some cool attractions along the way.
Mid race selfie vision.
The edited down video is a bit blair-witchy, but I think it shows the race experience. It’s funny to watch how I go from cracking jokes and getting somewhat stable shots, to gradually having zero sense of humor nor the energy to hold my arm out straight! Haha!
The night before the full I spoke via phone with my “coach” – My good friend (and awesome endurance athlete) Rexy. We actually have history of sports at Disney World. In college, we were cheerleaders and competed in the National Championships there my senior year.
Rexy is 3rd from left in front. I’m 2nd from right in back.
Anyway, she gave me a pep talk and helped work out the race strategy. She said to stick to exactly 4 hr pace for the first half. Then evaluate how I felt and pick up the pace if I could for the next 7 miles. Then let it all hang out the last 6.2. She told me to leave it on the course, and that if I crash, it’s better to do so the last few miles knowing that at least I tried.
Peace homey.
Again, we had a 2am wake up call. And the race started at 5:30am. The course began and ended at Epcot. It immediately went from there to the Magic Kingdom.
26.2 magical miles. Click to enlarge.
The first few miles were a bit crowded. I wasn’t able to go my normal pace, and I had to do some weaving. By the time we got to Magic Kingdom, I knew from the clock that I was going too slow. But I also knew I had time to correct that. 5 Mile in 47:39 – 9:32 per mile.
Runnin Down Main St, USA!
We got into the park – which is the highlight for me. It’s still dark out, and the whole park is lit up. Main St. is lined with tons of cheering spectators. And Cinderella’s Castle is all lit up! We get to run right through the castle, which is neat. The MarathonFoto folks had some pictures of me at the castle, but they lost them. I had even stopped for the official Castle photo – like I took with my sis during the Half the day before…
They did NOT light up the castle for the half. I wish I had the pretty lit up one to share with y’all.
…But they lost that one too. Bummer. If they find them later, I will share. They did have these though…
Still in the park.
Feelin the love.
Feelin a little fuzzy in Magic Kingdom!
After we left the Magic Kingdom, we then headed past the Polynesian Resort and the golf course. There was a glow in the East and I knew the sun would be rising soon. The weather was still cool, and I felt GREAT! I was actually smiling and having a really good time. My pace was steadily fastening.
Suns comin up. Right on my forehead.
Then we headed into the Speedway – their race car track. We did the mile lap, and there were a ton of classic cars out. A childhood fave – Herbie the Love Bug – was there, but for some reason the characters from the movie Cars weren’t out this year. Where’s Lightning McQueen???
I think running on this race track is a pretty unique experience though – how many people get to do that? Again tho, the MarathonFoto folks couldn’t find my photos from that locale. Sorry dude.
(photo missing)
Then it was on toward Animal Kingdom. Still feeling great. Still picking up steam. 10 Mile in 1:32:49 – 9:17 per mile.
*Side note. My sis works at AK, so I happen to know a few other of the zoo keepers there. I was glad to see some of them at the entrance to the park. They were there to cheer for us, very cool!
Feelin fine.
AK also had some animals and characters out. And some marathoners would stop to ride the roller coaster, but I didn’t have time for that.
I’m ahead of the guy that thought he could fly.
Once we left the park, we reached the halfway point. I was almost EXACTLY at 4 hour pace. Right at 2:00:06 for 13.1 miles – 9:10 per mile. I had made up the time I lost due to the slow start.
B.O. check.
Now was time to reevaluate. I still felt good, so kept picking up the pace. We were on the way to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. There we got to run through the sports fields, along with a lap on the track where we had been before for the Kids Race.
Unidentified location.
The highlight here is getting to run a lap on the baseball field. This is where the Atlanta Braves of Major League Baseball do their spring training. It’s a really cool experience, especially with people in the stands cheering! It was in WWOS that I had my fastest mile, but that would soon change.
I already got to first base, now I’m going for home.
Looking back, I think all the energy I spent trying to make up the time took it’s toll. I started to feel it around this point. But at mile 20, I was still on pace to break 4 hours. 3:02:30 – 9:07 per mile.
An angel in the outfield.
From there we headed toward Hollywood Studios. Getting closer to home, but like they say, the real marathon starts at mile 20. I was really feeling it and took short walk breaks at the drink stations to grab a little powerade (and one port-a-potty stop to get rid of the old powerade).
The tower of terror ain’t got nothin on my towering form.
But then I felt doing that worked and I got a second wind! Awesome!!! But then at mile 21 I think I made a bad choice. Instead of continuing on with my new energy, I decided to stick to my recent pattern and grab a quick drink at the drink station. After that brief walk, I never recovered. I should’ve just kept running past it.
Putting on a brave face.
Also at this point, I think the cumulative miles from the previous 3 races started to kick in. My legs started to cramp. Every step I could feel my quads tense, and when I pulled over to try and stretch them, my hammies cramped into a giant ball. OUCH!
You lookin at me?
My pace slowed considerably as I tried to deal with the cramping. Kept running, but had to take a few walk breaks. Mostly at drink stations, but also on a hill or two. Speaking of which….
…This is supposed to be a flat course. It is decidedly not! Sure, it’s not super hilly, but it does have it’s fair share of long steady inclines and declines. Mostly from the bridges and overpasses we had to traverse.
That’s a big wizard hat. Where’s the wizard sleeve?
Anyway, at this point I could see my “A” goal slipping away. It was frustrating, and I felt like I was letting people down who I knew were following along with the auto text/facebook/twitter updates runDisney was sending of my splits. I also felt like I was wasting a great opportunity because of the weather and all the training I had put into it. But I couldn’t control the leg cramps. Maybe I wasn’t mentally tough enough to fight through it this time. Ahh, the stuff we think when we look back.
Goodbye Hollywood.
By now the sun was up and the parks were open, so there were lots of people there. I’m sure they were annoyed that they had to wait behind a rope for us to pass before they could get to the churro stand, but many of them still cheered, and I appreciated that. And I had made it through the Studios.
I almost wore the same outfit as that chick…that would’ve been embarrassing for her.
We then made our way to the Boardwalk Resort. I know that we’re close to finishing, as it borders Epcot. I was slowing even more, but still going.
Somewhere in Disney World.
Finally we enter Epcot. You’d think we’d be right at the finish, but get this – we still have 1.2 miles to go before getting to the parking lot finish. That’s how big those theme parks are!!!
The big spiky golf ball means we’re in Epcot.
Look kids, Big Ben, Parliament.
By now I knew my “A” goal was gone. And when I saw some characters with virtually line (queue), I decided to take the opportunity to stop for a photo – especially with DOPEY!!!!
I cannot explain the Dopey expression on my face, other than we were 47.6 miles into the Challenge.
Disney puts characters ALL along the course, but this is the first time I’ve ever stopped for a photo. Then I got a second one with one of my Asian wife’s fave movie characters – Mulan!
I want a funny pet dragon.
One of the highlights, right before you leave Epcot, hidden from the general public, is a gospel choir. When I ran past them, I turned to look at them and had one final big full body CRAMP! I stopped in my tracks and doubled over in pain. A race attendant asked if I needed the medics. I shook her off, sucked it up and ran toward the finish!
Waving to my fans.
About 100 meters to go and I see my boy! My sister’s roommate and her boyfriend graciously agreed to babysit him while we ran, and they made it just in time to the race to see me finish! That was the final boost I needed to finish strong!
Waving at the boy. Pretty cool pic!
Past the bleachers of cheering spectators, I ran to the finish, and high fived Donald Duck (why wouldn’t I?)…
That guy quacks me up.
His hands were downy soft.
And finished with a defiant fist pump!
I will punch you air, in your face’s mouth!
Yes, I was disappointed that I didn’t break 4 hours, but I still PR’d! I broke my previous personal best by 2+ minutes to finish at 4:07:47 – 9:28 per mile.
Yay for me!
They said there were somewhere between 25,000 – 30,000 people in the marathon. In the end, only around 19,000+ of them finished.
It’s too bad, I had a nice negative split going on until I bonked. But hey, at least I finished the challenge! Next time I run a Full Marathon however, I will NOT run 3 races in the days leading up to it!
Pace getting gradually faster…
…and then the wheels fell off.
After we crossed the line, I collected my Mickey medal for the full. Then on to the Goofy station to get that medal. Then finally to the Dopey station to get that medal.
Finally our blingy reward!
It’s funny, as soon as they put that medal on my neck, I felt real emotional. Instantaneously. I guess it finally kicked in all those months and months of training, all the early hours, all the miles and miles, all the preparation. But sadly, the Disney folks don’t let you stop and enjoy the moment. They.keep.you.moving. “You can’t stop here. You can’t stretch here. Keep walking. Keep moving.” If only I had the energy to tell them that I can’t walk right now. My legs are a ball of lactic buildup!
I’m screaming in triumph, or pain, either or.
Funny story after I collected the medals and walked past the medical tent, a medical person started screaming – the other medics all thought someone was really hurt, but it turns out she went to Ohio University too. You have no idea how many “Go Ohio!” and “Go ‘Cats” I got on the course. Such great support!
After a chat with her, I then retrieved my gear bag, which had the other medals ready for their photo op!
Finally, they are all got!
Later on after all our friends and family members finished, we wore our 6 medals into Epcot to cheer on the later finishers and to ride some rides and get some Guinness and grub. People commented that we sounded like robots with all the clinking that accompanied each step.
It really was kind of heavy. The weight we Dopes carry is indeed a heavy burden of joy.
So there it is: 48.6 miles done. It was a fun challenge, and I’m glad I did it. It’s always a treat to run through all the parks that we would visit as kids. And they do a good job of having characters and volunteers along the way to keep your spirits up! Also, I’m glad I followed my “coach’s” plan the best I could, and even though I crashed toward the end, at least I left it all on the course.
Rumors confirmed – I am dopey.
In the future I’m not sure if I’ll do it again. But I would like to do another full with this same training. I think if I put in the same mileage, but with only one race as the goal, then I can slap that timing clock around!
I will say this though, the thing I’m most proud of is that while I was doing the Dopey Challenge, and posting about it on Twitter and Instagram and such. That I had people message me that I had inspired them to get out and run themselves! That’s probably the best result of this whole thing!
Did I leave anything out? Any questions about the inaugural Dopey Challenge? You have any desire to do it? What’s up?
In just a couple days we’ll be in sunny Florida for the Disney Dopey Challenge – 5k, 10k, 13., 26.2. This weekend’s training called for 8 miles on Saturday and cross training on Sunday. Done and done (Sunday was a really tough yoga class). All that’s left is 2 miles (+ weights) on Tuesday. Then the training is done!
Let’s get doped up.
Some exciting news – they released the official design of the race shirts…well, 4 of the 6 anyway…
I’m guessing the Dopey and Goofy shirts will have Dopey and Goofy on them, respectively. Yup, I’m smart.
It’s time to make final preparations. Thanks to everyone who gave me costume ideas. I found a couple gems in my box of Halloween past. They aren’t too exciting, as I want to keep it functional and also light, as the weather may be warm. I’ll be sure to post photos at the race! Be sure to check my Instagram and Twitter!
My standard Disney statue and castle photo op.
Even if you’re not going to this race, here’s a tip – DO NOT PACK YOUR RACE SHOES IN YOUR LUGGAGE! Last year, an American airline (which shall remain nameless, ha!) lost my bag for a MONTH. Luckily it was on the way home from a race and not on the way to a race! Keep them on with you, like they’re your little shoe babies!
My precious Brooks (and heart shaped butt sweat), can’t run without em!
I’ll also be sure to leave room in my carry-on for all the bling! My eyes are already looking like this…
Dopey in the sky with diamonds.
Because these will be some of our rewards…
I hope to have the energy to carry these!
Anyway, my brain is kind of skattered trying to get everything ready. I’m itching and ready to race!
If you care to follow my progress in real time during the races, then either follow my Twitter, or sign up for Runner Tracking through Disney – HERE. Just enter my name – Scott Evans, and choose how you want to follow my progress.
How bout yous? Any last minute personal tips you want to share? How do you get ready for a destination race?
Last day of 2013. I got one last run and weight session in. It gave me time to think about the past year. Here’s what had happened…
It started by running the 20th Anniversary of the Disney Marathon in Orlando…
Medals dang near big as yo head!
As part of that, the boy ran the Kid’s Race and won his heat!
I can’t believe he has better form than I do. He also has better race photos.
I also kept my streak alive of being undefeated against celebrities in races. You can read about the others HERE, but this time I beat Joey Fatone….
It’s the guy from that boy band – I think it’s named – My Big Fat Greek Wedding.
Explored the Orlando Theme Parks with…
Moms, Pops, Boy.
Celebrated the boy’s birthday at a fire station (his choice)…
Unfortunately, the did not serve us chili.
I then ran the Too Cold to Hold 5 miler. You can see the recap HERE – A bunch of friends joined me…
We should’ve ordered brighter shirts for TNSR.
I ran the Dallas Rock n Roll 1/2 Marathon. You can see the recap HERE…
I know it looks like Brooks threw up on me, but don’t care cause it was cold! I needed more of that tin foil stuff to wrap me up like a baked potato.
I then got to produce a bunch more videos with the hilarious Flula…
Like our dope videos or we will fight you…in a non violent way.
I got to celebrate my birthday and St. Patty’s Day in a special way, which you can see HERE…
I’d be a giant in leprechaun village.
Then I won my age group in a very special 5k that you can see the recap HERE…
I’ll treasure this one fo shizzle.
I then got to meet up with my sis and sis from another miss in Raleigh, NC…
With my sis and sis from another miss.
After a few days of fun, we were off to the Outer Banks to run the Flying Pirate Half Marathon, which you can read my recap about HERE…
My sis and I after a recent 1/2 marathon in OBX, NC.
We had a bit of fun exploring the site of the Wright Bros first flight…
Gotcha!
And celebrated on the beach…
Here’s your typical beach photo of legs and feet.
Unfortunately, the next day was the bombing of the Boston Marathon. I wrote my thoughts on it HERE, which I got a huge response from. Apparently I wrote what others were feeling.
At Fenway Pahk watchin tha Red Sahx play the wicked Yankees a few years ago.
I then ran another 5k, you can read about it HERE…
Takin it to da bridge!
Then my soccer team finished in second place after losing in a shoot-out after double overtime…
Cheered for more friends running a Thanksgiving day race…
The turkey was probably sad because it was Thanksgiving – a sad day for flightless birds.
Survived a North Texas ice storm…
All that white stuff looks like fun snow, but is actually pure evil ice.
Which forced me to the dreadmill to continue my training…
That took forever.
Helped a friend run the final few of his 30 mile run for charity…
At the mile 27 station.
Celebrated the holidays with family and friends…
All our ornaments on the bottom half of the tree.
And ate a buttload of tacos…
Mmmmm, tacos.
BTW, my knee is feeling pretty great. I’m almost done training for next week’s Dopey Challenge (5k, 10k, 13.1, 26.2) at Disney World! Can’t wait to get these 6 medals!
My neck feels heavy just looking at them.
In between we just kept on trying to keep on. Hanging out at home with the fams and dogs. Making videos. Yoga-ing. Working out. Cooking. Laughing. Oh, and blogging.
How was your year? Did you make the most of it? How’s your 2014 looking? Big plans? Holla!
Piratebobcat 