Star Wars Half Marathon - The Dark Side
Star Wars Half Marathon - The Dark Side
( 19 reviews )-
Orlando,
Florida,
United States - April
- 3 miles/5K, 6 miles/10K, 13.1 miles/Half Marathon
- Road Race
- Event Website
Tom
Georgia, United StatesOverall
T-Shirts/SWAG
Aid Stations
Course Scenery
Expo Quality
Elevation Difficulty
Parking/Access
Race Management
The Star Wars Dark Side Half was my first half marathon and I couldn't be more pleased with the experience. I ran as a charity runner for St Jude Children's Hospital, which I feel gave extra meaning to the training as well as the race.
Packet pick up at the expo is relatively easy, be prepared to sign a waiver and provide picture ID. The expo itself is indoors and very well done with good vendors and a lively atmosphere.
The Disney staff does an excellent job of handling the large crowd of enthusiastic runners and providing a great experience for all. The aid stations are close together, which helps ensure runners stay hydrated and fueled in the Florida heat and humidity, which can be difficult if you're not accustomed to it.
There are markers at each mile and character stations located throughout the course, which provide lots of photo opportunities, which you can take with your own camera or you can utilize the services of the Disney staff photographers. The Disney photos are professional quality and available for purchase online.
Although I enjoyed this race and the mostly flat course, I would not recommend this race if you are looking to set a new PR. The large crowds mean that you will be forced to a walk on some of the more narrow sections of the course, unless you are an elite running in the lead pack.
If you are staying at a Disney Resort they will handle all of your race day transportation. If staying outside Disney you will need to allow plenty of time for getting to the race location, Traffic is heavy and the walk from runner drop off to the race corrals is about 20 minutes.
I plan on running more Disney Races and hope to do this one again next year. I highly recommend this race, especially for those looking for a great experience to add to their Disney vacation.