Thursday, March 5, 2009

Disneyland Half-Marathon

On a scale of 1-30, I give this Marathon a 26

1-Poor
2-Average
3-Good

1) Location- Anaheim, CA

The route was from the Anaheim Convention Center to Disney's Adventure
Park, the scenic streets or Anaheim, and through Angel Stadium

Score: 3

2) Start

The start line was not very organized. I went with a small team, one had never participated in an event and one had finished her first event in almost 4 hours. They were placed in the 2nd Wave, I finished my last event in 2:28 and provided proof and I was placed in the last “Wave”. I was not too happy.

Score: 1

3) Route

The route was a flat loop course. Part of the route was through the theme park. Because I was placed in the wrong “Wave”, I encountered “People Jams”. This broke my pace and became frustrating. I was not able to enjoy the scenery. I was more concern about that portion of the route ending, so that I would be able to maintain a steady pace. Stopping and starting was not in my plans. I had actually had a goal of setting a new “Personal Best”.

Score: 1

4) Mile Markers

The mile markers were very visible and accurate.

Score: 3

5) Water Stops

The water stops were well stocked and the volunteers were very helpful. They took good care of all the runners. This was very important because it was a very hot day.

Score: 3

6) Finish Line

The reception and entertainment at the finish line was great. The medal was place around my neck. I like this better than when it is handed to me. I was able to find where the nourishment and water were located. We did not need blankets, the temperature was good enough
Score: 3

7) Volunteers

They had a large number of volunteers. They were ready for us with food, water and electrolytes. All the stations were well stocked.

Score: 3

8) Spectators

The crowd was great. The entertainment was awesome. All the excitement they generated inspired me to continue no matter what. The community really came out to support us.
Score: 3

9) Refreshments

They had plenty of refreshments and water for the runners.

Score: 3

10) Medal

The size of the medal is huge. It is a castle, which says “Disneyland 1/2/Marathon”. Below the castle is an additional piece which dangles. This portion says “Happiest Race on Earth August 31, 2008”. I love it!
Score: 3


I recommend this race for all those who love a Disneyland Adventure. Runners can stop and have their picture taken with the Disney characters.

I do not recommend it if your plans are to set a new “Personal Best”.

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