This was my first RunDisney event, and after having FOMO from so many friends Princess races the year before, I was so excited to be running my first! The race ended up being my 3rd half marathon in 3 months, so distance wasn't an issue, and had ordered a Belle themed tank top from Etsy to "costume".

I had not been to Disney in 12 years at the time of this event and was pleasantly surprised at how well run EVERYTHING is. We arrived at the hotel and after check in took a shuttle to the Expo to get our bibs. Everything went seamlessly. The expo itself is huge and the best I've seen. I got a sparkly soul headband to go with my costume, tried on a couple sparkle skirts (but ultimately decided to save my money at the time), got a spibelt and water bottle, and got some last minute energy gels. They had Disney themed New Balance shoes you could try buy. I tried a pair on, and while super comfortable, I know New Balance is not my choice runner and didn't buy them (but they were super cute!).

The morning of the race we were on the shuttle by 3:50am. Gear check was quick and easy. I wish I'd had a mylar blanket or something to keep warm at the start line, but it wasn't terrible. My corral was a good half mile to mile from the entry area so plan accordingly. Every other corral had fireworks to start (for at least the first few).

Running on Disney pavement made me have disdain for running in Atlanta. The ground is smooth and pot hole free. Its clear they care about grounds maintenance. Most of the race is around the parks but the parts that are in are magical. I got a few character pics and purchased one of me coming out of Cinderella's castle. I've never seen as many medical aid stations and they had pumps of Biofreeze, didn't have to use it but its nice to know that was there.

The medal is gorgeous and the finisher snacks were delicious. The ONLY complaint about that day is the line to get back on the bus to our hotel was really, really long, and in the sun. I hadn't even thought of sunscreen and was already burned from the day before (I know, my fault). Also, RunDisney races aren't cheap, and no you don't get discounted park admission or anything of that nature. Even still, I'm really excited for running this race again in 2017!