A Call to End the Marathon Madness
Enough is enough with this event. I have to tell everyone that I absolutely positively hate the marathon and want to see Disney remove it from its list of special events. Because unlike all the other events they have, this one impacts everyone else’s vacation in a negative fashion. And in some cases, in a significant manner.
Case in point, me. First of all, we had a grand gathering event for breakfast at Tony’s Townsquare on the day of the half-marathon. We got ready to leave early from Kidani Village knowing the potential traffic delays. We had no idea how bad it was. Not only were buses taking nearly an hour to make to the trip to the Magic Kingdom. They weren’t even taking you to the normal bus stop but instead were dropping you off at the Ticket and Transportation Center, which, of course, was mobbed from the extra bodies. Apparently, the situation was even worse if you wanted to go to Epcot.
Then, on Sunday, the day of the dreaded full marathon, we made sure we headed to the Studios early. Traffic wasn’t too bad, but the stupid race, for some reason, has to go right through the middle of the park making park crossing and sensible touring logistically impossible. Whoever decided to put this race through the park itself should be fired. Right now.
Worse off still were the poor folk who had to get home by Magical Express on Sunday morning and early afternoon. The buses were way behind schedule. People were being picked up more than an hour after their alloted time and then had to sit in bumper to bumper traffic. Hopefully, no one missed their flights but I know there was a lot of anxiety out there.
And for what? A marathon? Disney should stop the madness now. It was all I could do to stop myself from booing the runners as they blocked my way from using my Toy Story Mania fast passes. (I scored about 155,000 by way, a personal best). If Disney insists on doing this thing, why must it disrupt each and every park. Limit the nonsense to one, maybe two parks. If you know ahead of time that the runners traipse through Epcot causing all sorts of problems, fine I will go the Animal Kingdom.
And Disney MUST use their resort TV channels to warn guests that buses (especially for Magical Express) will be significantly delayed. If the guests know the extent of the problem, they can be prepared and it won’t cause as many headaches for paying guests.
Today’s posting is from Mike, contributing writer to Mouse Extra
David said,
January 12, 2010 @ 2:05 pm
Just to add to the Magical Express point, I was taking it to OIA at 11am on Marathon day. I was not told by anyone at Disney that I should take an earlier bus to compensate for the 90 minutes we spent on the bus trying to pick everyone up and get to the airport. The entire time you could hear the ME dispatcher pleading to her drivers for anyone who could get to POP for a pickup because they were so far behind. Crazy!
Bill said,
January 12, 2010 @ 8:37 pm
I am so sorry your vacation was interrupted by so many people who were, hmmm, let’s see, on vacation and doing something they enjoyed! But, apparently, if the activity does not fit in with your definition of fun, it must be stopped. By your reasoning, the hard ticket parties (like the Very Merry Christmas Party) should be eliminated because they cut into the time you can spend in the Magic Kingdom. While we are at it, let’s do away with those pesky afternoon parades, which make it difficult to cross Main Street to get into the Emporium to shop. And those darn fireworks cause traffic jams that slow down the trip back to the parking lot or hotel - they have to go! Hey, I know, let’s institute a minimum age for park entry so that you won’t have to be bothered by all those strollers and little kids running around. Get a life Mike. Or at least have a salad.
Anonymous said,
January 13, 2010 @ 1:05 am
I can understand your frustration, Mike, but the idea that your solution is to just shut it down seems to be fairly self serving and doesn’t take into consideration all the individuals who enjoy this event and make it a big part of their vacation to Disney World.
Instead, I would think that finding another solution to the issues that you experienced would be more constructive. From what I read of your complaints, they mostly relate to traffic issues on the roads surrounding the parks. Instead of telling the over 24,000 runners that they are ruining your vacation, how about offering other suggestions, such as limiting the number of runners (maybe even having two races a year with half the number of runners at each one), or doing a better job of routing the runners so that it doesn’t impact the roads as much.
I’m sorry that you feel that you were cheated from your Disney World experience because of this event, but the idea that you would choose to BOO these runners (most of them on vacation with their families themselves) is very sad. I ran in that race and believe me, trying to ruin someone else’s experience would not have made your experience any better.
Jeff said,
January 13, 2010 @ 1:20 am
I can understand your frustration, Mike, but the idea that your solution is to just shut it down seems to be fairly self serving and doesn’t take into consideration all the individuals who enjoy this event and make it a big part of their vacation to Disney World.
Instead, I would think that finding another solution to the issues that you experienced would be more constructive. From what I read of your complaints, they mostly relate to traffic issues on the roads surrounding the parks. Instead of telling the over 24,000 runners that they are ruining your vacation, how about offering other suggestions, such as limiting the number of runners (maybe even having two races a year with half the number of runners at each one), or doing a better job of routing the runners so that it doesn’t impact the roads as much.
I’m sorry that you feel that you were cheated from your Disney World experience because of this event, but the idea that you would choose to BOO these runners (most of them on vacation with their families themselves) is very sad. I ran in that race and believe me, trying to ruin someone else’s experience would not have made your experience any better.
Mike said,
January 13, 2010 @ 1:24 am
Its different from this point of view. It disrupts EVERYTHING in WDW. Not just an hour off the Magic Kingdom schedule. And parades and fireworks are attractions in and of themselves. Plus, parades last what, 30 minutes, not all freakin’ morning.
I never said people can’t run on their vacation. Just don’t intrude on my vacation and I won’t on yours.
Mike said,
January 13, 2010 @ 1:34 am
And for the record, I had a salad about an hour ago. Whatever that means
Mike said,
January 13, 2010 @ 3:37 am
I thought my suggestion of keeping it limited to 1 or 2 parks answers your criticism
Mike said,
January 13, 2010 @ 3:50 am
And I didn’t boo
I just said I wanted to
Bruce said,
January 13, 2010 @ 4:04 am
As a hard-core Disney guy, you obviously knew this event was happening.
Why, then, didn’t you go to WDW on some other weekend? There are 51 other opportunities when you could have enjoyed the place relatively unimpeded.
That’s like going on Xmas day at 1:00 pm and complaining about the crowds.
Mike said,
January 13, 2010 @ 3:32 pm
Not really. I am a hardcore Disney fan, but due to some planning problems like other people’s work schedule and college break, this was the best week.
There is nothing you can do about the Xmas crowds. Its busy I know. But this marathon does have to effect the parks.
For example, You can go to Disney during Star Wars weekends and avoid DHS on the weekends if you have no interest in the films.
My biggest problem is there is no where to go to get away from the marathon. And that is hardly necessary
My second biggest problem is Disney does nothing to help you prepare. They could easily use their Resort TV channel and announce things like “give yourself an additional 1 hour if using the Magical Express” and “Busing to the Parks will be delayed give yourself an extra 45 minutes to an hour” and “Buses to the Magic Kingdom will drop you off at the TTC until 10am” and other things of that nature
Bob said,
January 13, 2010 @ 6:09 pm
Tell you what Mike. If you start training now I’ll join you for the Marathon next year. I promise that you will love the experience and think differently about it (as long as it’s not as cold as it was this year). The Disney Marathon is considered one of the top ten marathons world wide and is considered the number one family friendly race. The start time is at 6am so if we hurry, we can try to finish before the parks open so we won’t get in the way of the other guests
Mike said,
January 13, 2010 @ 7:10 pm
I appreciate the offer Bob, but it seems like way too much work for me.
Paul said,
January 14, 2010 @ 2:44 pm
Mike, I was also there during the marathon. Running in it for the third time and on each of our trips, including this one, we were provided a letter in our room about the possible transportation delays due to the marathon. I also notice on Friday or Saturday night on the Resort TV channel there was an announcement about the possible transportation delays during the weekend. Did you not heed the warnings? Oh and each of us runners are also paying guests. We paid much more than what a normal marathon costs to run at Walt Disney World.
Mike said,
January 14, 2010 @ 5:00 pm
I didn’t get a letter and did not see the Transportation announcements. If I missed them, then I stand corrected.
As for paying guests, do you pay what other people pay or do you get discounts and if you do, what are they?
But frankly, I don’t care if you are a paying guest. You are still seriously effecting my time at the parks. No other paying guest does that
Dude said,
January 14, 2010 @ 6:27 pm
Mike,
Would you apply this reasoning of delays and inconveniences to metropolitan areas, as well? For example, Los Angeles, New York, Boston, and Chicago all host marathons. It causes major problems in those places, as well. And unlike a vacation to WDW, it generally affects “real life.” I’m just checking to see if you have a double-standard.
Kristin said,
January 15, 2010 @ 4:20 am
Mike…I also ran in the half-marathon and can’t believe some of the things that I have read on your posts. I love everything Disney and happened to stumble on your page and am shocked at the way that you feel. You have ABSOLUTELY no idea how much time, effort, training, sweat, tears, injuries and time away from family that it takes to be able to run a half or full marathon. I have grown up going to WDW so running in a marathon there was one of my greatest accomplishments EVER!! I think it is just a bit selfish on your part to think that Disney should eliminate the marathon because it is raining on your vacation. Do you get mad when they have to refurbish a ride and you don’t get to ride it? When a float breaks down and you may not get to see a parade?? If they run out of balloons on Main Street and you don’t get to buy one?? Don’t set yourself up for this Mike..go during a different week and get over YOURSELF!!
B said,
January 15, 2010 @ 4:42 am
I had to comment.
As a marathoner, I appreciate the fun, the frills, and the total pleasure of “running Disney”.
I for one, don’t go in the dead of the Summer, and I don’t go when a few “unofficial gatherings” are happening, b/c that would put a damper on my vacation.
So, if you are hard core Disney, and you knew it, then there’s just not too much to say about that.
I would think that you could be like the tons of others, who embrace it, and volunteer, or stand on the sideline and cheer for those….those accomplishing one of the hugest deals in their life, or those running, in place of their mom….who can’t run this year because of cancer, or….those running, in memory of their husband, who died this year, and was registered! Or, simply those that enjoy the sport of running.
I would never ask the High School Bands to not come…..it is the highlight of their year.
I would never ask those little Tinkerbells to move out of that long line, so that I can get across Main Street.
I would never ask the powers that be at Walt Disney World to cancel the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, just so I can have one more spin on the teacups. After all, that little tiny Captain Jack is about to meet his hero.
So, as for me, I am thankful that they don’t take your advice…..and that I’ll be running 2011 with my sister, and my mom….who is 55 and will be running her first marathon! And, she will enjoy every step of the way, and I can’t wait to share in the magical memory with her!
Frank said,
January 15, 2010 @ 5:32 am
Of course other guests affect your vacation. You wait in lines everywhere because of other guests. Your argument is very weak.
Anonymous said,
January 15, 2010 @ 1:51 pm
Since this event is highly advertised why don’t you just go at a different time? Nobody really likes a booing fan like you.
Anonymous said,
January 15, 2010 @ 4:13 pm
I guess you missed the fact that this is a huge sporting event. and at Disneyworld, it is a dream come true for die hard fans that are runners. it is exhilirating to run Disney. you are probably one of those guys that complains about everything, so take it from me, I worked too hard to train & run the half marathon. Please go away, don’t come near the crowds, and don’t boo anybody except your self. Obviously you have no idea what if feels like to accomplish such a personal goal, or to run the distance. So boo to you Mike for not realizing that everybody’s dreams come true at Disneyworld, not just yours.
Mike said,
January 16, 2010 @ 1:02 am
I will try to answer everything here. First of all, I did not boo. I thought that was clear. I just felt like it. It would be in poor taste to actually boo.
#2. Yes, I knew there was a marathon and I knew it complicated things. But that was the first time I had such a headache. And the thrust of my complaints is that Disney did not do enough to give you information on how difficult it could be.
#3. I do have the same feeling for those races in cities. I am fairly certain that if I actually lived in NYC (as opposed to about an hour outside of the city) I would hate the marathon and find it extraordinarily inconvienent.
#4. High School Bands and whatnot don’t effect EVERYONE else as much as the marathon does. Nor do they effect everything.
#5 I have accomplished many personal goals thank you very much like having children, passing the bar exam, college etc etc. But no, I have never run the marathon nor do I wish to. But I never once disparaged anyone who did. I think being able to do that is fantastic and amazing. I just don’t see why it has to run thru the middle of DHS and make touring a nightmare for everyone who is not interested.
#6 Frank, comparing waiting in lines to this is apples and oranges, in my opinion. I don’t see the logic. The marathon is a manufactuered delay not just in parks but in busing to parks and the magical express. Its just not the same thing as a long line to Peter Pan’s Flight because its the July 4th weekend
#7 Again, I keep seeing people compare this to things like Star Wars Weekends and the evening parties at the Magic Kingdom. The difference to me is that those things effect 1 park. You can avoid that park that day. Not so with the marathon. It effects every park and every place you go.
#8 I hardly complain about everything. Read this blog and you will see that. I like somethings and don’t others. I am not, however, a pixie duster who loves everything Disney does because Disney does. Nor do I hate anything at the parks that happened after Walt died. The fact that I complain about 1 thing does not mean I complain about everything. That reasoning is simple minded.
#9 Kristin, I congratulate you on your accomplishment. I never have gone through it and have no idea what its like to run marathon. Again, I think its great. But I fail to see what that has to do with this at all. I hope you don’t dislike me or this blog because of this one point of view and hope to see you again around here.
Kristin said,
January 16, 2010 @ 2:19 am
Mike… I do appreciate your congratulations. The reason I think your comments are just terrible is because if you truly have problems with the marathon, then take it up with Disney. Don’t post it on a blog that the marathon, runners, extra bodies at the ticket and transportation center have ruined your vacation. I think that is tacky and shallow. Fact of the matter is that you are the one who posted that you absolutely hate the marathon and felt like booing the runners. Just poor sportmanship on your part, that’s all. I hardly believe being the avid Disney fan that you are that you did not know how the marathon would affect transportation, park hours, etc. When I checked into Pop Century marathon weekend the cast member specifically asked me if I knew that it was marathon weekend and proceeded to give me details. I would never try to convince you to be a runner because I could really care less if you are or you are not. However, things just don’t always go my way and you know what? Sometimes I just have to chalk it up to as ….that’s life. Now as for Disney…they probably made more money just off of the spectators at the ticket and transportation center…aka the ChEAR Squad from the one half marathon than you have or ever will spend on your vacations in your lifetime. So I would seriously doubt Marathon weekend will go away anytime soon.
Mike said,
January 16, 2010 @ 2:25 pm
I know the marathon won’t go away despite my desires. I hold no delusions as to that. I never said it “ruined my vacation”. Hardly that. I said it was inconvienent and I don’t like it. The blog is about posting views. Just because mine is not the same as yours doesn’t make it tacky. How is that poor sportsmanship? I am sorry that I don’t like it. I am sorry that I find it inconvienent. I am sorry if I point out how this event negatively impacts the guests who could care less about the race.
Jeff said,
January 16, 2010 @ 3:20 pm
Mike,
Below are quotes from YOUR posts. Why don’t you just let it go.
“I have to tell everyone that I absolutely positively hate the marathon and want to see Disney remove it from its list of special events.”
“Whoever decided to put this race through the park itself should be fired.”
“It was all I could do to stop myself from booing the runners”
“I don’t care if you are a paying guest. You are still seriously effecting my time at the parks.”
“Just don’t intrude on my vacation”
Kristin said,
January 17, 2010 @ 4:20 am
Thanks Jeff. I don’t think Mike really remembers at this point what he posted.
Mike said,
January 17, 2010 @ 5:13 am
I remember full well. The marathon is annoying and I stand by everything I posted. It should go unless it could be changed so as not to have the effect it does.
I’m not the only one who dislikes the marathon. My bus driver on Saturday morning called it a nightmare. And a CM at DHS said that he wished he would have taken the day off.
Grumpy Dwarf said,
January 19, 2010 @ 9:56 pm
Mike out of all your criticism I find one very useful point. Disney does a miserable job letting folks know what is going on during marathon weekend. My wife and I play a game on marathon weekend and ask Cast Members really simple questions like, “where’s the marathon bus?” or “how can I get to WWoS?” The average score for these simple but important questions approximates 50%. I will grant you that one point.
As far as the rest of your article you knew, you came anyway, live with it. Like a typical brat you want to spoil 24,000 other folks annual vacation so your impulsive weekend trip will not be inconveninced. Please let US know when you will return as I do not want to ruin your next weekend jaunt. I believe I now know there the stinch came from during the full - it was not the sewage plant.
Caveat emptor pal
Meg said,
January 19, 2010 @ 10:02 pm
I hope to not see you at Disney next year for the marathon. If you were, in fact, the die hard fan that you claim to be, you would have been at Animal Kingdom on Sunday where the crowds are traditionally low and the runners were cleared out by 10 am. I went there after cheering on my teammated in Epcot and I was walking onto every ride.
There are also crossing areas in each park where cast members will help you cross the course when it is safe to do so. Did you not see these and take advantage of them?
I think also that blaming Disney for the ME issues is not appropriate since this service is actually run by Mears. Mears should have planned accordingly but it appears that they didn’t. At least you weren’t caught up in that mess. I would hate to have to hear what you would say if you were delayed in getting to the airport.
Rose said,
January 19, 2010 @ 10:33 pm
Mike, I hate to break it to you, but Disney does not care if you hate the marathon.
I ran the Goofy this year, so I was one of those runners who inconvenienced you on both days. I’ll admit that I did feel sorry for the guests trying to navigate the crowded pathways that were closed off for runners, but I can’t apologize.
There are no discounts for marathoners. I paid the same amount for my resort and tickets that you did. I also paid $300 for the privilege of getting up at 3:00 am to stand outside in the cold for hours, and for my shot at running 39.3 miles in my favorite place in the world. I also spent another $300 in Marathon Weekend souvenirs from the kiosk at the expo. And that is on top of the regular meals and souvenirs that I spent money on during my week-long Disney vacation. Marathon Weekend is during the slowest time of the year for Disney; if it wasn’t for the marathon, the parks would have been a ghost town that week. As it was, I never waited more than 10 minutes for anything, all week.
This was also my 3rd marathon trip in 3 years - and I am already signed up for 2011. Before I started running the Disney events, I visited WDW maybe once every 2-3 years.
Marathon Weekend is incredibly valuable to the Disney company, and in this situation, I’m sorry to say it, but I’m more important to Disney than you are. The money that Marathon Weekend brings in during an otherwise dead time of the year is just too valuable to Disney for them to worry too much about your inconvenience.
I’m so sorry you had to wait to use your TSM fastpasses.
bt said,
January 19, 2010 @ 11:43 pm
Boo to you.
And learn the difference between AFFECT and EFFECT. It would make your English teacher proud and maybe some of your posts would be at least literate, if not misguided and selfish.
Kim said,
January 20, 2010 @ 2:41 am
Mike, sounds like you want to hear yourself wine and cry that your “little” vacation was intruded on by 24k runners — who by the way happen to be my bothers and sisters from across this nation of all shapes and sizes, advantages and disadvantages. This event goes on EVERY year….this is not the Disney’s first.
YOU cry about “your” vacation being ruined by the lack of information from Disney. Let’s think about this for a sec. Where is your self accountability? YOU knew it was Marathon weekend, YOU chose to pay your hard earned money during this particular weekend, YOU chose this vacation time for your family. The question is did YOU choose to educate yourself regarding the logistics of this weekend? Sure it’s easy to blame Disney, but I’m finding the common denominator in this equation to be YOU! YOU failed to plan, YOU failed to ask the questions and YOU failed to enjoy yourself by complaining about a what YOU already knew what was Marathon weekend.
So before YOU chose to rant and rave to blame Disney, YOU might want to take a look at yourself. I believe you have misplaced anger…don’t make Disney YOUR problem!
To my fellow runners…see you in 2011 to do it all over again!
Mike said,
January 20, 2010 @ 3:32 am
Yes, again, I knew it was the marathon but Disney did not provide adequate information on this.
Rose makes an interesting statement. She says “I’ll admit that I did feel sorry for the guests trying to navigate the crowded pathways that were closed off for runners, but I can’t apologize.” I find it fascinating that these marathon runners don’t feel the need to apologize to those they inconvienced. Why are we being inconvienced? So you can run through the park? Why do marathoners feel its so important to disrupt everything for that? Seems rather “misguided and selfish” to me
Tiffany said,
January 20, 2010 @ 3:33 am
Hey Mike, why don’t you ask the Leukemia and Lymphona Society if they would like to cancel marathon weekend.
Mike said,
January 20, 2010 @ 3:33 am
And yes, I agree that Disney does not care that I hate the marathon. Unfortunately, it will likely go forward again next year.
Tracer said,
January 20, 2010 @ 4:05 am
hmmmm
Quote: .” I find it fascinating that these marathon runners don’t feel the need to apologize to those they inconvienced. Why are we being inconvienced? So you can run through the park? Why do marathoners feel its so important to disrupt everything for that? Seems rather “misguided and selfish” to me.
Disneyworld puts on the race and decides the route. We racers sign up (and pay more than most half/full marathons anywhere) and we run where Disney tells us. Disney Sports specifically advertises that you get to run through the parks!! This is the way Disney gets people to sign up for the races! hello?? As a racer you just can’t decide for yourself your own course, you have to go where they tell you and that is through the parks!
YOU KNEW what was going on before you got there, correct? Why didn’t YOU ask at checkin. I go to WDW at least 5-6 times a year and if I know something might be going on at that time I try to find out more about it and ask cast members. Also, I would have maybe took that as a day to sleep in and go to the parks later, that is what I might have done. Also, in case you are not aware, you can use yout fastpasses anytime in that day, just not before - thought you might like that little tid bit.
I did have a letter in my room when I checked in that remarked about marathon weekend. Sorry if you missed yours. When you saw what was going on on Saturday, maybe that would have sparked something for you to go ask a concierge or cast member as to what would be going on on Sunday? Just a thought.
BTW, Disneyworld has a Half Marathon in March and has JUST ADDED another in October. The one in March goes through 2 parks and the one in October goes through 3 parks. Keep your eyes out for those dates for races at http://www.disneysports.com so you make sure not to go at these times.
With that said, Disney does not seem to be wanting to stop these “races” as they are adding to them. Let’s face it, they make money doing it!!
See you all at Marathon Weekend 2011!!
Anonymous said,
January 20, 2010 @ 4:14 am
Mike, that would be FORTUNATELY, it will go on in 2011. Come on and join us. I just dont see how Disney will turn away $6,000,000+ in entry fees for a weekend that is normally one of the lowest attended during the year. They also rake in park passes for most all participants for most of the days they stay at the resort. I would guestimate that in an avaerge year over 50% of the guests in the park are actually there because of the marathon; not despite the marathon. Keep a stiff upper lip. This weekend ISNOT going away.
I would like to sugget you coming to visit again during the first weekend of October. We need a little early season ‘booing’ during the Wine and Dine half. It’s a brand new race that you can write about as we interupt your long awaited trip to the Food and Wine festival.
Mia said,
January 20, 2010 @ 5:33 pm
Okay Mike you lost me.
“I find it fascinating that these marathon runners don’t feel the need to apologize to those they inconvienced. Why are we being inconvienced? So you can run through the park? Why do marathoners feel its so important to disrupt everything for that? Seems rather “misguided and selfish” to me”
Your initial argument and frustration about lack of information and transportation was fair enough. That’s a Disney issue and with 55 THOUSAND people competing over three days clearly everyone had their hands full. I wasn’t even there this year but now you’ve ticked me off.
It takes a special level of arrogance to state that you deserve an apology from runners for their participation in a sanctioned and organized race because it conveniences you. The only apology you deserve is the one from Disney who clearly didn’t do a very good job of informing the masses but as far as I’m concerned you’ve forfeitted your right to that one too. Jerk.
J said,
January 20, 2010 @ 6:26 pm
“If Disney insists on doing this thing, why must it disrupt each and every park. Limit the nonsense to one, maybe two parks. If you know ahead of time that the runners traipse through Epcot causing all sorts of problems, fine I will go the Animal Kingdom.”
The half marathon on Saturday only goes through MK and Epcot. You knew the half marathon was going on Saturday, left early to account for traffic, and went to one of the two parks where the event was taking place. Based on your quote above, why didn’t you head to AK instead?
I stayed at a Disney Resort Marathon Weekend and there was a letter on our desk detailing the problems that the races might cause. Including specific instructions to allow extra time to arrive for breakfast reservations at the MK as resort buses would be dropping off at the TTC.
It’s a shame that people had trouble getting to the airport, but as someone said above, Mears (not Disney) should have accounted for the traffic with extra buses and earlier pick up times.
Lauren said,
January 20, 2010 @ 8:08 pm
I am not going to maul your post, however, I will reiterate what Bruce said….you have 51 other weekends to choose from. Obviously, you did not choose wisely. Shame on you, do not blame Disney or the runners for your lack of planning.
shannan said,
January 20, 2010 @ 10:21 pm
next year will be my first half marathon. the reason i started running was so i could run at disney. so i will be in your way next year. if you will please let me know where you will be and when i will make sure i am in your way. there are over 24k runners each with at least 1 or 2 people traveling with them. that’s a lot of money for disney with tickets, room and food. my room won’t cost me any less DVC points than anyone else there. so next time why don’t you get out of my way because you are intruding on my vacation.
Courtney said,
January 20, 2010 @ 11:27 pm
While I don’t feel the need to apologize to anyone for participating in the “dreaded full marathon,” I do recognize that travel in and around the parks was inconvenient and downright difficult. And while marathon weekend was the only weekend you had available, you clearly were aware of the situation. I also stayed at a Disney resort and a letter was provided in my room stating that travel would be negatively affected. There was information also provided on one of the Disney television stations.
As for me and the 17000 other runners who ran through the parks on Sunday, we paid our share to participate and enjoy the parks in a different manner than usual. Once the parks opened, there were plenty of opportunities for crossing from one side of the route to the other. I am not sorry that I ran through the parks and I am not sorry that your vacation was negatively impacted by “the stupid race.”
Perhaps, Mike, if you put some effort into training for a marathon or a half, you would have less time to complain about those runners that you so badly wanted to boo. Oh, and by the way, next year’s marathon weekend is Thursday, January 6, 2011 through Sunday, January 9, 2011. Plan ahead to either join in the fun and spirit of competition or to stay home and find something else to annoy you.
CrownCast said,
January 21, 2010 @ 3:16 am
41 comments may have hit a nerve here…..
My father and wife ran the ½ I took my daughter to MK from POFQ that morning, was fully aware of traffic changes, (both from a Disney Driver and a letter in my room) and was able to get on the newly refurbished Space Mountain with no problems.
…. Now the fact that I was not right for the rest of the day after to get on the newly refurbished Space Mountain that was my own fault.
If you were talking about putting the parks in a plastic dome so it did not snow on me as I went from the entry to get on the newly refurbished Space Mountain, then I would be with you.
…. But I think you are one ears short of a hidden Mickey on this one.
alyssa said,
January 21, 2010 @ 6:22 pm
I ran both the 1/2 and full this year. I’m not going to jump all over Mike for his comments. It is his blog posting and he is free to say what is on his mind.
I will agree that Disney does a poor job in communicating to all of its guests about what to expect during marathon weekend. That is really unacceptable for a company that is supposed to pride itself on taking care of its guests.
Marathon Girl said,
January 22, 2010 @ 7:05 pm
Mike - Plain and simple. This year marathonweekend brought over 44,000 runners to WDW. With families, likely 100,000 people. While they should do a better job communicating the issues that people will face, 1 person mad does not compare to 100,000 visitors. We pay a lot of money to go through all 4 parks. Plus, while the trffic congestion will go on for a while, the last runner leaves Epcot by 1. They are not going through the parks for THAT long.
Chris said,
January 24, 2010 @ 8:51 pm
I find it somewhat humorous that you fail to see the entire picture:
A: Without the marathon, there is no doubt in my mind that this would be one of the lightest weeks of the years where it comes to attendance and hotel occupancy. Instead, with the marathon, many Disney resorts were either oversold (!) or VERY close to capacity; most without any type of discounting (i’ll be more than willing to bet the majority of those who did receive discounts were the ones NOT participating in the marathon). This is business- plain and sample. Business that draws up a lot more demand in one’s product than would normally be there during that time of the year. As I recall, both the half and the full marathon were sold out.
B: Further, this was business that was communicated on resort television and letters in guest rooms. If you chose to ignore it, that’s unfortunate. At the minimum, at least one medium would have been available to advise. Failing everything else, you came with full knowledge of it being marathon weekend. There are plenty of other opportunites to come at a different time, even if that meant delaying your next trip significantly until your schedule would permit such.
C: Part of the draw of the marathon is the fact that it winds through the theme parks. It may be inconvenient for park guests for several hours in the opening in the morning until the afternoon, but after that, guess what: it’s like nothing ever happened! You could have just as easily slept in, had a leisurely day at your resort until mid-afternoon and then head out! Seeing as how cold it was, probably sensible advise anyway.
D: I’ll be generous. This HORRENDOUS event may have cost you six hours over the course of two days. Come during New Years, and I’m sure that you’ll find yourself more even more frustrated for the same reason as this time: people “intruding” on your vacation. Or, you could chose one the other say 330 days of the year when everything is normal and crowds are light or moderate.
Bottom line: The marathon has a mild impact on the morning to afternoon operation of Walt Disney World. This mild impact is more than offset by the amount of business it yields, filling hotel rooms, restaurants, shops and parks. The marathon becomes more and more popular each year, and it’s not going anywhere. Best avoid it if you hate it that much - next year, the weekend stretch of Jan. 6 - 11 is the marathon. You’ve got a little under a full year from this point to plan things out.
Brett said,
February 5, 2010 @ 10:17 pm
Mike, I agree with you 100%. I just wouldn’t have spent so much time responding to all those that want to hang you for having an opinion.
For those marathoners who don’t like Mike’s POV, understand that people go to WDW for one reason: to enjoy the World of Disney. To compare this time to Christmas, Summer, New Year’s, etc. is ridiculous. Those times are busy due to so many going to ENJOY Disney at those specific times of the year, not run through it. If guests are informed of an event like the marathon AFTER they’ve already arrived & paid for their trip, should they feel like they have to leave to avoid overcrowded parks? I’m positive WDW would do just fine filling up resorts without the marathon. Within one year of people realizing this was a “slow” time, reservations would skyrocket. I’ve seen it happen countless times over the years(much to my dissappointment).
There’s only one WDW, but plenty of marathons for you to go run in. How about you try one of those? People who go don’t have the option of enjoying WD WORLD from another location. Even their other parks can’t match up to this one. Running a marathon does not impress me. There are thousands of other things I would consider accomplishments before running without being chased.
I have to agree that since your request to eliminate this inconvenience will probably be ignored, use it as a guide and avoid WDW during those times. It’s extremely frustrating, as I have had to adjust all my favorite visiting times over the past 20 years due to annoying events like this, but the world continues to go on around us.
Brett said,
February 5, 2010 @ 10:25 pm
PS - I really like the way some respond with how rough it was “getting up at 3:00 am to stand outside in the cold for hours…for my shot at running 39.3 miles”. They should take weapon disarming classes so next time they have a chance against the guy holding a gun to their heads.
Of course, they pale in comparison to those who comment in a heated discussion with tips on grammar. They must be great at parties.
Anonymous said,
February 19, 2010 @ 3:17 pm
No need for a marathon at Disney World. I agree 100% with everything Mike said. Who would go to Disney to run anyway? If you need a jogging fix that bad then run around the resorts like everyone else. When you plan your trip and book it through the Disney website a bright red light should flash on the screen warning you that your trip coincides with marathon weekend. Why do I get the feeling that there is hardly a mention.
A cheerful rebuttal said,
February 28, 2010 @ 3:58 am
I was there on marathon weekend 2010. I received plenty of warnings from Disney about traffic and potential delays, etc. Signs in the lobby, info given to me at check in, info in my room, info on the tv. It was really hard to miss.
I also went to DHS on marathon day. No problems getting there, no problems getting around in the parks. I had to wait no more than 2 minutes to cross the street at a couple locations. But that was it. Honestly, no big deal whatsoever.
We’re all entitled to our opinion, and cheers to that. It’s just surprising to see someone voluntarily post something so self-centered and “me, me, me first!! and ME only!!” as Mike has here! Wow!
The runners paid at a minimum $120 each just for the experience of running through the parks. I think that gives them just as much right as any day guest to be there. It’s a truly unique and awesome Disney experience… it’s not just a “jogging fix” (as the previous poster said), it’s a giant event, a HUGE charity fundraiser, and a big Disney party that brings joy to many, many people!
And Brett (a previous poster), you stated that “people go to WDW for one reason: to enjoy the World of Disney” … running a Disney race falls in the category of enjoying Disney for thousands upon thousands of people and their families. Apparently not for you, which is fine, but just because not everyone enjoys running events is not a reason to cancel the race.
Marathon weekend is very well publicized. I DO expect marathon weekend to be incredibly busy — as busy as a holiday, and I DO plan accordingly. I don’t celebrate several of the holidays that cause huge crowds at Disney, so I don’t go on those days and/or at those times. But I don’t begrudge those who do, or complain that they all got in my way.
There is room for marathons at Disney. Like them or not, they are a great addition to the business plan and a ton of fun for hundreds of thousands of people, plus their families, over the years. I can see marathons are not your favorite, but proudly calling for them to be cancelled at Disney and requesting an apology from the runners is bad form.
Veronica said,
February 28, 2010 @ 4:39 pm
The WDW Marathon has occurred each year for years now. This past year was the first time I ran it but I knew that it occurred each January well before I decided to sign-up and run it. If you are a die-hard fan, as you claim, than you knew it as well when you booked your 2010 trip. I had to pay well over $100.00 to run the full and those in the Goofy paid over $300.00 to run both. I find it troubling that you actually had the hateful desire to boo us just because you weren’t having your picture-perfect vacation because YOU decided to go on a week-end when YOU knew that we’d be running in the parks. It was poor planning on your part and it’s selfish of you to want the marathon to end. It’s only one week-end. One week-end that 50,000 of us enjoy. For 2011, don’t book a Disney vacation the second week-end in January. Problem solved
Jack 26.2 said,
March 2, 2010 @ 4:48 pm
This was my first marathon. Not a huge fan of running like many here are, I had a goal, I did it and finished. There is no need to be so mean to Mike~ He has his opinion and you know what; it’s ONLY his opinion. This is a huge money maker for Disney, historically it used to be one of the slowest weeks of the year.
Then again, Universal was OPEN!
Mike said,
March 5, 2010 @ 12:57 am
Universal! surely you jest