runDisney Springtime Surprise 10-Miler: This Was the Way

After a sluggish start the day before, I was feeling much more refreshed for the runDisney Springtime Surprise 10-Miler this morning. A little extra sleep worked wonders—and the cooler temps at the start certainly helped too. Like the two previous races, we began in the Epcot parking lot, and the vibe was electric. That said, the bottleneck at the start was real. It was one of those moments where you’re not so much running as shuffling and trying not to trip the person in front of you. Unfortunately, just before the half-mile mark, one runner did face plant on the asphalt—a rough reminder to stay alert even in the excitement.

Things got more magical after mile 1 when we entered Epcot and made a loop around World Showcase. 

We exited near the UK Pavilion and made our way through the charming Boardwalk area before hitting that narrow pathway that leads to Hollywood Studios.

The highlight of the entire race for me came as we entered Batuu, in Galaxy’s Edge. That’s when I got to meet Mandohimself. Yes—THE Mandalorian. Naturally, I asked him if this was the way to the finish line. In his classic masked, muffled voice, he responded: “This is the Way.” Literal goosebumps. Not even exaggerating.

After that epic moment, it was off to Toy Story Land. Before I exited the park, I had to take a quick detour (runner priorities!)—it was time to check in for my Southwest flight. Mission accomplished: Boarding Group A secured!

Around mile 4.5, we were back out on the road where we will be here for quite some time. While it was less scenic, Disney kept the energy high with plenty of character stops and bands along the way. At mile 6, a light breeze rolled in—a welcome break—but I knew better than to trust it. As soon as the sun crests the horizon, things heat up fast.

By mile 8, we were making our way toward the Epcot entrance again, and the cheering crowds really helped push us through that final stretch. There’s nothing quite like running past the gospel choir near the end—it’s like the finish line calling you home.

Crossing the finish line, I received the sleek 10-Miler medal featuring none other than Elastigirl. And for those of us who completed the challenge? We earned the bonus medal with Baymax and Hiro—definitely one for the collection.

With that, the runDisney race season officially comes to a close. Bittersweet for sure. But no worries—I’ll see you all in September for the beginning of another magical season.

Until then... this is the way.

Want to see the race highlights? You can watch the full experience on my YouTube channel — click here to check it out!

Rocket & Groot Take on the Springtime Surprise Challenge - 5K

If you've ever wondered what it's like to run through EPCOT at 5:00 in the morning, dressed like a raccoon and chatting with a potted tree, allow me to enlighten you.

The first leg of the Springtime Surprise Challenge kicked off with a 5K hosted by none other than Groot from Guardians of the Galaxy. Naturally, I took this as a personal invitation to cosplay as Rocket Raccoon and bring my trusty sidekick — a potted baby Groot — along for the ride. (He didn’t complain, though I suspect he still thinks he's the real star of the show.)

"RunDisney" apparently translates to “alarm goes off at 2:00AM.” Yes, 2:00AM. I rolled out of bed like a raccoon emerging from a dumpster, slapped on my costume, grabbed Baby Groot (who was looking very awake for a tree), and hopped on the transportation bus by 3:00AM. By 3:45AM, I was in Corral B, making friends, chatting with fellow costumed runners, and occasionally adjusting Groot’s soil to keep him comfortable.

When our corral moved forward and crossed the start line just after 5:00AM, we were greeted by dazzling lights, pumped-up music, and announcers who really love mornings. The race began in the EPCOT parking lot, and the first mile was a warm-up lap around the outside of the park — which Groot found just a little dull.

But soon, the real fun began: we entered World Showcase, where cast members and entertainers cheered us on, and the park’s lights cast a glow that almost made me forget it was still technically nighttime. We ran under Spaceship Earth, then past the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind ride — the perfect backdrop for our dynamic duo. Groot may or may not have tried to steer us toward the ride queue mid-race. (He’s got priorities.)

Throughout the course, I chatted with Baby Groot, and to my delight — and his — several entertainers and Cast Members recognized him. Shouts of “I am Groot!” echoed as we passed, causing his little leaves to perk up. He was basking in the attention, and I could tell this would be a core memory for him. (Tree pun intended.)

As we neared the finish line — back in the EPCOT parking lot — I heard the heavenly sound of the race choir, which only meant one thing: we were almost done! Groot and I gave it our all down the final stretch, and despite stopping for character photos and general raccoon-tree shenanigans, we crossed the line in 40 minutes. Not too shabby for a non-timed race full of detours and dancing.

Our post-race reward? A medal shaped like a cassette tape, complete with Adult Groot featured front and center. Naturally, I shared it with Baby Groot — he earned it too, after all. (He insists we alternate weeks wearing it. We'll see.)

 

All in all, the first run of the Springtime Surprise Challenge was a blast of galactic proportions. Whether it was the early morning adrenaline, the thrill of running through EPCOT, or just the joy of pretending I was Rocket with my miniature bark-covered bestie, it was an experience I'll never forget.

Until next time… we are Groot.

And hey — if you want to see Rocket and Baby Groot in action (yes, there’s dancing), you can catch our whole adventure on my YouTube channel. Click here Groot promises not to cry if you subscribe... but he might do a happy little wiggle.

2024 Ta Ta Dash

 

This is the first year for the Beyond Pink Ta Ta Dash. The proceeds will fund advanced breast screening technologies. This is something very dear to me since my own battle with breast cancer last year. This race is non-competitive, however there are prizes for the overall winners. So if you want to compete, make sure to start in the front of the pack. Runners are encouraged to dress in pink and have fun. This is a very relaxed race. Distances offered are 5K, 10K and a kids 1/3 miler.

I was so happy my friend and her granddaughter could join me. It' always more fun to run (walk) with other people, especially someone as fun as her!!!!

There was very little in terms of pre-race activities and no photo opportunities. The swag included a cotton t-shirt (very much appreciated since it was freezing this morning). And the color matched perfect with all the Pink.

You also received your bid this morning as there was no day before packet pickup. There was also a pen from one of the sponsors and a refrigerator magnet with measurement conversions. This I really liked, and it went on my frig immediately.

I don’t believe there was much planning regarding the restrooms since the porta’s we used last month for the Shamrock race had not been cleaned and were unavailable. The alternative was to use the parks’ facilities which were limited to three unisex restrooms. I stood in line for 15 minutes pre-race.

The race was on time (always a plus) and as soon as the count down began, the sun appeared. Hooray! This was the same course as the Shamrock shuffle and the 5K had one aid station handing out small bottle waters. I love this course in Riverfront  park, all the bridges and the river was beautiful this morning.

As with all breast cancer runs, many did wore pink, some had tutu’s and more.  I of course was all decked out in my pink attire.

This was a timed race, and overall winners did receive an award. The race registration was affordable at $35 with the option to contribute additional funds for cancer research.

There were no post race refreshments, but again this was their first event and getting sponsorship can be difficult. I didn't mind since we headed over to Kendal Yards and had a late breakfast at the Crepe Cafe. Can't beat a good crepe and mimosa, plus I am all for supporting local businesses.

For being their first year, I thought this was a wonderful experience and talking with the participants most were breast cancer survivors or currently going through treatment.  

Good cause, great people and anytime I can wear a pink tutu, I AM IN!

Check out my race recap on my Youtube channel, Click here!

 

2024 Shamrock Shuffle

There are a couple of race options in Spokane for St. Patrick's Day. I usually run the 5 miler put on by BRRC, this is the same organization that puts on our annual Bloomsday race. This year however, I decided to try a different race and boy am I glad I did.

The Shamrock Shuffle is organized by Negative Split and registration is through runsignup.com. They offered a 5K, 10K and Half marathon. I did the 5K, but next year I may do the 10K or half only because the route is so beautiful.

The race start and finish is located at the North Bank Shelter of Spokane's Riverfront Park. This is also where Gear check was located for those that needed it.

Pre-race entertainment was provided by local mascots, I snapped a photo of Doris the Spokansaurus from our baseball team, the Spokane Indians, I actually took some video of her as she did a little dance and blew me a kiss.

There were also some inflatables for photo ops. Just ask a runner to snap your photo, everyone was so friendly.

Prior to sending us off, we did a pre-race workout with stretches and a little cardio to get us warmed up. There were no aid stations for the 5K and that's fine for me. If you are doing the 5K and need hydration make sure to bring your own. There were two aid stations for the 10K and five for the Half Marathon. There were ample portable toilets at the start and for those longer distances, there were facilities at each aid station. One thing that made me extra happy, we started ON TIME!

When I say this race course was gorgeous, I really mean it. 

The entire course of the 5K ran around the Spokane River which flows through the middle of Riverfront park. With the weather being sunning and warm it was the best!

And can we talk about medals................

Early race registration was $35.00, I think this is a steal. Especially since we receive a really nice finishers tech shirt and a great looking metal along with the post race food. There was so much food; bagels, bananas, scones, chips, coffee, hot chocolate and more. 

If you want to check out my video recap of the race on YouTube, Click Here!

I highly recommend this race, and then go enjoy some green beer!

2020 Run for a Claus Virtual 5K

 

This year has been a year of practically all Virtual races. My one and only in-person race this year was the Walt Disney World Dopey challenge. If it weren’t for the massive accumulation of medals you receive over that 4 day race challenge, I wouldn’t have hardly any medals to hang on the wall. 

 

Looking at the closing of 2020, I decided to go out with a bang. I got online and registered for as many Virtual holiday races I could.

 

What attracted me to register for this Virtual race was the amazing swag. For just $30 (at the time I registered) you get some pretty nice merchandise. When I opened the Ugly sweater designed mailing package, all the items were sealed individually in plastic wrap to keep them from getting damaged during shipping. 

 

Right on top was a welcome/thank you note from the race organizer and a reminder to post your race photos to share with the other virtual running participants.  

The finisher’s medal was absolutely fabulous. The ribbon was high quality fabric and the medal was not flimsy rubber or plastic, but actual metal measuring 3¾ x 2½.  The fact that the Santa is wearing a mask makes me smile inside. Even the Big man in red does the right thing.

 

Since Christmas racing is during one of the coldest times of the year, I was excited to find the Ugly sweater pattern neck gaiter and santa hat with beard. If that doesn’t keep my face warm, nothing will.

 

Sorry about the creepy foam head…..

                                                                                                        

And lastly, don’t forget to hang your socking with care on the fireplace for Santa to fill with all your favorite running goodies. 

I ran the 5K rather than the 1 mile, this way more of my neighbors get a chance to see what a lunatic they live next too.  Thanks to Sparkle Athletic, I ran in my new Ugly sweater skirt that I purchased last month. 

 

The week before Thanksgiving, you receive an email with the instructions to download your racing bib. They also provided all the social media tags to share your photos and the link to submit your results and download your finisher certificate. There is also a virtual costume contest, five of the most festive costumes will win a free entry to the 2021 event!

This was Baxter's very first 5K and he did great! Check out my YouTube video, just Click here to see my little Baxter run his first Virtual race. 

Why run a Virtual Race, Divas Edition

This Independence Day I ran the Divas Virtual Fourth of July 5K, outfitted in my tutu and boa that I received in the mail. Okay, maybe I didn’t run in the Boa but I did wear the tutu and was proud of it, because everyone should run in a tutu!!!!!

I didn’t sign up for Disney’s Virtual 5K summer race series this year. Don’t hate me, but the theme this summer was not something that was worth the price for me. Just not a Marvel comic fan. However, being the girly girl I am. When I got an email about the Divas virtual 5K, I was all over it in a split second. 

The Divas Series has partnered with Breast Cancer Charities of America (iGoPink) to help raise awareness to fight breast cancer. Great cause to help stomp out breast cancer.

Some may question why you should sign up for a virtual race, you’re just paying for a medal. But you’re doing that anyway and spending a lot more for a physical race. For those that don’t have the budget to travel for races, and believe me it gets pretty spendy. This is a great introduction to running and it will determine if you like running before taking the plunge. It’s also a great way to stay motivated during training. You get some nice bling and encouragement over social media. Always make sure to post and hashtag your virtual runs. People will connect immediately with hearts and likes. Makes you feel more involved just like you would in an organized race.

To answer the age old question of why should you spend the money on a Virtual race, here are my top seven reasons you should give it a try. 

1. Flexible Timing

There are so many races I’d like to do but my calendar fills up quickly with work, hobbies, travel, etc. Being able to run a race at a time and place of my choice is spectacular and helps me to stay motivated.

2. Worry Free

When you’re running a virtual race and the weather is cold, wet, snowing or whatever, you have the option to hit the treadmill. You also have the opportunity to run another day if your feeling sick or have last minute plans you can’t get out of.

3. Gear Testing

Just bought a new running belt or earbuds or costume? Test it out on familiar ground rather than on an actual race course. If you haven’t seen my Disney’s Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon video and the skirt malfunction click right here and see how important it is to always test out your running gear. 

4. Fuel Testing

You never want to try something new on race day. But running close to home is your opportunity to try out some different pre-run and during run snacks. Better to find out now if your digestive system doesn’t like your choice.

5. Break up training monotony 

18-24 weeks of training for a single race may lead to feeling burned out. If you sprinkle in some fun virtual 5k’s or 10k’s along the way it allows you to work on speed and have a little fun.

6. Feeling Embarrassed

When I first started running, I was always worried that everyone was looking at me and thinking “What is she doing on the race course” A virtual race allows you to start treating yourself like the runner you know you are without worrying about what other people of thinking. We all have our own style, embrace it, don’t hide it. 

7. And of course the BLING, BLING, BLING!

Virtual races have come a long way with the fancy medals and great shirts along with additional race goodies.  

Most Virtual races benefit a charity, so you get that added feeling of helping a worthy cause. To watch my YouTube video of the Divas 4^thof July Virtual 5K click right here!

Here’s the link to the Divas Virtual website so you can sign up for their next race Run Like a Diva Enjoy and happy running!

2019 Missoula Big 3 Challenge

Missoula Montana is only a three hour car ride from Spokane, which is probably why I’ve done the Missoula half marathon so many times, seven years to be exact. This year by far was the BEST YEAR EVER! I believe this is because they moved the race date from the second weekend of July to the last weekend of June.  Just those few weeks made such a difference in temperature and air quality. Normally we are running in 90+ or 100+ degrees, inhaling smoking air from the surrounding fires that have become the norm during our summers here in the Pacific Northwest. This year, it never even reach 80 degrees and it was actually a little chilly at the start lines. Best decision by race organizers in creating perfect running conditions.

On to the races. I started participating in the Big 3 Challenge several years ago. This challenge includes:

·      3 mile beer run on Friday, no charge and free beer at the end

·      5K on Saturday

·      Half or Full Marathon on Sunday, again free beer at the end 

After you finish the Sunday race, you head to Caras Park for a little extra bling for doing all three. More on that later.

We arrived in Missoula around 2:00pm on Friday and checked into our hotel. I recommend staying at the Holiday Inn on Pattee Street. It’s one of the nicer hotels in this quaint college town. It is also conveniently located to ALL race activities. 

We walked to the race Expo which is held at Caras Park, right next to our hotel. Normally a pleasant experience. However, this year seemed to be a little disorganized and super over crowed. Not sure if this was because we arrived right when it opened, they were understaffed or if more people registered than usual. Whatever the reason, we picked up our bids and shirts and left. We didn’t feel like pushing through the masses to visit the vendors. 

First race of the challenge is a 3 mile beer run on Friday at 6:00pm. 

Since moving the races to June the weather was better than any of the other years I’ve run this race. Just to compare, last year it was 101 degrees for the Beer Run, this year it was around 75 degrees. The race starts and end at Caras Park Pavilion and runs briefly along the Clark Fork River to and around the campus of the University of Montana stopping only for a photo op with their mascot the grizzly bear. 

This is not a timed race, but we all knew who crossed the finish line first MY SON. He was being interviewed by the local news channel when I finally finished. Even though this race is free you are awarded a free beer from Big Sky Brewing Company to anyone 21 or older. Tasty and refreshing as always. 

The 5K on Saturday doesn’t start until 8:00am so you’re not doing the walk of the zombie to the start line. I like a later start time for the 5K, you feel more rested and since its only 3.1 miles you’re not losing a chunk of your day running. The race starts on Higgins Avenue just north of the Higgins Street Bridge. The first mile runs through neighborhoods, then along the Clark Fork River to McCormick Park. After mile 2 you run on the Kim Williams natural trail, over the Madison Street Bridge then finishing just below the Higgins street bridge at the Missoula Marathon Expo. Not a lot of hoopla at the finish line, but the medals are always nice.

My final race of the weekend was the Half Marathon on Sunday. Start time was 6am, however bus transportation ran from 4:15-5:15am. So I was up at 3:30 for my usual pre-race routine and out the door by 4:30am in order to be at the Adams Center on the University of Montana campus where buses take you to either the Full or Half start lines. I hooked up with some other runners for the short (but dark) walk along the Riverwalk trail to the campus. Once on the bus, it was about a 15 minute ride to the half marathon start at the Alpine Physical Therapy /PEAK Health & Wellness. The first couple of miles were at a slight decline – always welcome! The course winds through the beautiful Montana countryside, photo ops at every turn.  Every year this man hauls his grand piano out to the road and dressed in his tux plays during the entire race. So classy. 

One pleasant addition was located at mile 10.3, the Blaine Street Adult aid stations, offering complimentary cocktail samples. Yes please, I’ll take the Mimosa – and I did. 

Crossing the Higgins Street Bridge for the final stretch before crossing the finish line is all downhill YEAH! 

The half marathon race medal was awesome as usual and the food after the race was also great: a free beer, pasta salad, watermelon, bananas, bagels, cookies and nuts. If you participated in the Big 3 Challenge you get to pick up your “extra” bling right after the race located at the site of the expo. This year was this really cute refrigerator magnet. All said and done you walk away with 2 really nice shirts, 2 medals and magnet, and oh yea 2 cans of FREE BEER!