The Princess Half Marathon was one of my favorite races! Having all of my friends there with me made it all the more special! But before we headed for the starting line, we had to make it through the runDisney Health and Fitness Expo! Here are 6 ways to survive the somewhat chaotic show!1. Plan your Expo:
Before you even arrive at the Health and Fitness Expo you need a budget. Review the vendors posted in the Event Program, have a list and know what you are looking for!
And decide when and where to meet. It's packed, busy, and noisy. Cell coverage may or may not work, it's best to have a meet up plan ahead of time!
Tip: Typical prices include Jackets, $75; Shirts, $35; Pins, $16; Accessories, $35.
Tip: If you are staying at a runDisney Host Resort, you will be able to catch a bus at your resort to and from the Expo. The Buses will marked : just look for "Event Transportation". If you are staying offsite, be aware that parking at the ESPN Wide World of Sports will be packed and busy. If you plan on taking a taxi, allow for $30 or more each way.
2. Pre-register for New Balance shoes: If you are planning to purchase the New Balance Disney shoes, then I would suggest pre-registering. The attendance at the Princess Half Expo is a very large and the slots for trying on and purchasing shoes will go quickly. Runners and spectators can sign up at the New Balance Virtual Queue during the Expo.
Tip: The Virual Queue opens up at 6am each day of the Expo. Last year during the Princess Half Expo, I started checking the link at 5:30am. When I finally got through, my slot was at 1:30pm. So, it pays to start trying as early as you can.
3. Get there early! runDisney will usually let you in 30 minutes before the published opening of the Health and Fitness Expo and being there before the afternoon rush is a bonus!
Tip: If at all possible, go to the Expo on the day it opens. Things have a way of selling out and vendors will pack up early the last day. Also, you will end up staying longer than expected, so bring water and snacks for everyone that tags along!
4. Your first shopping stop should be runDisney Official Merchandise. These items are limited edition and will go quickly. If you wait till the last day of the Expo, there may not be anything left. I've debated and waited, and missed out!
Tip: Purchase commemorative items online. Don't expect to find commemorative race jackets, hats or pins in large quantities. These one-of-a-kind memories are always the first things that sell out at the Expo. If you want it, had it in your budget, get it as soon as you can online.
Tip: Keep in mind this race is geared towards women and will have plenty for the ladies to choose from. There will be limited items for men - so grab those up first.
Tip: If the checkout line is very long, have someone wait in line while you pick up your Official Merchandise.
5. Bring your family! The runDisney Expo is a family friendly running extravaganza that everyone will enjoy! With Kids Races, Chear Squads and Family 5K, the Expo is for your whole family!
Tip: There will be an area near the Event Speakers for families to make Chear Posters. And lots of photo opportunities with Disney Celebrities! And don't forget - this year's 5K is Frozen Themed... I bet we will see Anna and Elsa!
6. Relax and enjoy yourself! It will be crowded, but that's OK! You will find that the enthusiasm is contagious and you will want to become apart of it!
Oh and Don't forget Your Race Bib! Packet Pickup will be in a separate building than the Expo and you will need to allow time to pick up your Bibs and Chear Squad packets especially if you are running the next morning.
Tip: Everyone must be present to pick up their Bib. You may pick up your child's Bib if they are in any of the races, but all Adults must be present with a Picture ID in order to get their own Bib.
Tip: Race shirt pickup is located in the Expo, but you must have your Bib!
Experiencing the Expo is an integral part of the Princess Half Marathon Journey, and one you will not want to miss! See all the fun I had at last year's Princess Half Marathon Expo !
kesselrunner77@gmail.com
No comments:
Post a Comment