As we prepare to head down for another runDisney weekend, I think about how few and far between running events at Walt Disney World seem to me. I say this of course, mindful that new events have been added in California at DisneyLand. But where is the love for Florida?
Well, as it turns out - there is something else out there for runners.
The ESPN Wide World of Sports (WWOS) complex on property is host to numerous events throughout the year - everything from soccer to cheerleading to Crossfit. DisneyGroom even participated in basketball events there during his high school years.
If you are like me, your main association with the WWOS is the location for the runDisney expo. And yes, it is that too.
ESPN holds an annual Disney Cross Country Classic. Now in its 19th year (yes, this has been around almost as long as the WDW Marathon), the event attracts cross country runners from middle schools and high schools around the country.
Cross Country Open 5K Dust off your spikes and hit the trail on the new and improved Disney Cross Country Open 5K course. This fun run is open to athletes of all ages and skill levels. The new course will guide you on a scenic run through the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.
From what I've seen, part of this course is off-road, similar to the Happy Haunted 5K during runDisney's Tower of Terror 10 Miler Weekend. Word is that there may be a character or two at the finish line.
The Cross Country Classic weekend even includes some extras runDisney runners will appreciate. A mini 'expo' of sorts and a pasta party WITH CHARACTERS.
From the DisneyCrossCountry.com page
Vendor Village: Be sure to visit the Disney Cross Country Classic Vendor Village located at the HESS® Fields at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex before or after your race!Pasta Party: Athletes, coaches, and race spectators – everyone’s invited to be a part of the fun during our Cross Country Classic Pasta Party, 6:00 p.m., Friday, October 10, 2014 at Champion Stadium at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex!Treat yourself to a scrumptious buffet dinner including mixed greens, smashed potatoes, panko baked pasta, chicken with marinara sauce, rolls and drinks.Kick off race weekend with a live DJ, meet your favorite Disney characters, enjoy a delicious dinner and take in all of the Disney magic. Tickets are $25 for pre-purchase and $30 on the day of party (based on availability at Welcome Center). Get your tickets today at Disney Sports Travel or at theBolt Ticket Store it’s a celebration you won’t want to miss!
You probably want to know "Are there medals???"
What awards are given to the runners competing in the Disney Cross Country Classic? A: Trophies will be given to the top three (3) athletes and top three (3) teams in each team race (high school, college, and middle school). In each race, individuals placing 4-10 in will receive a medal. For the Open Race, trophies will be given to the top three (3) male and female athletes and individuals placing 4-10 will receive a medal. A first place team trophy may be added for the Open Race if there are sufficient team registrations for the Open Race.
I did a web search and discovered that past medals look like this:
So, okay - you have to be pretty fast to snag a medal. But still, there really is something magical about lacing up your running shoes and hitting the pavement (or trail) when you are on property. Since we are heading down to WDW this weekend, we won't be able to make this event next week. But, for locals, and any other runners that find themselves there next week, it's definitely worth checking out!
Have you ever run this event?
Did you happen to catch the cool Mickey Mouse trophies in the video?
Did you ever do any of the many youth athletic competitions at ESPN WWOS?
