Some things that are DIFFERENT from other marathons:
- Very early start time of 5:00 a.m., and needing to be in staging/corral area at least an hour before then.
- Lots of run/walkers, with seemingly most, if not all pace groups using the Jeff Galloway run/walk method.
- Character photo stops galore!
- Ability to go on a few rides during the event (ie: Mount Everest) - where else can you do that?
- Fireworks at the start of each corral.
- Ability to run through four Disney theme parks, plus their water theme park, Blizzard Beach!
- Amazing photos taken during the race (Disney Photo Pass) - considerably more than other races.
- Disney characters at the start and finish as well!
- Possibly warm temps, even in January! In 2020, the course was shortened for some runners due to rising temperatures (over 80˚F).
- If you're staying off property (Disney), you'll need to leave even earlier to make it to start area on time.

They have by far the best med tents of any race I've done (I've run 14 marathons, 25 half marathons), as well as good water/nutrition stops as well (approx. every two miles).

While there are numerous corrals, it still tends to get quite crowded, especially with the corrals that are "further back." Expect that certain areas will be crowded.

Overall, I think the Disney Marathon, and runDisney races in general are great for those new to racing, and those that use the run/walk method. And while I think almost any runner would enjoy a Disney race, those that are really set on PR'ing may not like the vibe of the runDisney Marathon. It's more casual, and all-runner friendly. As with anything, nothing can be all things to all people!

I highly recommend giving a runDisney race, and especially the Disney Marathon a go!

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