Disney has opened registration for its second annual “Wine and Dine” half marathon.
The event, which has the distinction of being the only Disney marathon event to be held at night, takes participating runners through three different parks as they run. Held the first Saturday of Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival, the finish line is located at Epcot and offers runners an opportunity to celebrate their accomplishment with – what else? – food and wine!
Here’s the low-down:
Date and Starting Time: October 1, 2011, 10 p.m.
Starting Line: ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex
Finish Line: Epcot
Costs for Half Marathon:
$145 by March 27, 2011
$155 between March 28 and May 8, 2011
$165 on or after May 9, 2011
To particpate, runners must be at least 14 years old. At present, registration is only open for the half marathon event. However, registration will later be open for a marathon relay and a 5k event as well.
Registration includes:
- Champion® Race tech Shirt
- Half Marathon Finisher medal
- Official Race Program Guide
- Goody Bag
- Personalized Bib (Must register by August 1, 2011 for name to appear on bib)
- On-course and Post-Race Refreshments
- ChronoTrack D-tag timed race
- Personalized results website
- Access to the exclusive after-hours Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival
- One (1) Complimentary “Taste” and one (1) Complimentary “Sip” at the Finish Line Party
Since the event was new last year, there were a few kinks to work out, especially regarding the Finish Line Party. Disney is addressing the concerns that were raised by participants, and has released the following statement:
The post-race party will be expanded in 2011 to include a variety of Epcot® attractions and many more food and beverage locations. In addition, the half marathon finish line will be moved to just outside the main entrance to Epcot®. Our intent is to provide more space for the finish itself, a larger spectator viewing area, and a greatly expanded baggage claim operation. The Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon finish area will be in a parking area adjacent to the Epcot® main entrance, allowing for easy access into the post-race party inside the park.
We expect to have exciting entertainment enhancements to share among other surprises, both during the race and during the post-race party, so stay tuned for more details and spectator ticket information on the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Finish Line Party.
Spectator ticket sales for the Finish Line Party will be limited in quantity and subject to capacity.
The event proved to be extremely popular during its inaugural run last year; 11,000 runners sold the event out two months in advance, so early registration is recommended. To register, please visit the race’s website. More details can also be found there in regard to the other events. Running clubs and organizations interested in running the race for charity can also find the appropriate information here.
