By Alexis Ring
Are you ready to take your love for running and Disney to the next level? If so, the RunDisney Coast to Coast Challenge awaits! This prestigious challenge offers participants the opportunity to earn a special medal by completing races at both Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Let’s dive into what the Coast to Coast Challenge entails and how you can obtain this coveted medal.
What is the RunDisney Coast to Coast Challenge?
The RunDisney Coast to Coast Challenge is a thrilling endurance challenge that encourages participants to conquer races on both coasts of the United States. To complete the challenge, runners must finish one eligible race at Disneyland Resort in California and one eligible race at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida within a single calendar year.
How to Obtain the Coast to Coast Challenge Medal:
1. Register for your races:
The first step in embarking on the Coast to Coast Challenge is selecting the races you’ll participate in at both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort. In order to be eligible for the Coast to Coast Challenge, you must complete a ten miler, half marathon, or full marathon on each coast. For example, I ran the Disneyland half marathon and the Walt Disney World Princess Half Marathon, which granted me the opportunity to gain the coveted Coast to Coast medal!
2. Plan your Disney Vacations:
Since you are traveling, you must plan your vacation well in advance! These weekends have thousands of participants, so book your Disney package with your SAT advisor well in advance to ensure you get the best deal for your upcoming vacation!
3. Complete Your First Race:
Race day has arrived! Lace up your running shoes, put on your costume, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable running adventure. Whether you’re running through the enchanting streets of Disneyland Resort or exploring the magical parks of Walt Disney World Resort, savor every moment of the experience as you tackle each race with determination and joy!
4. Travel to the Other Coast:
After crossing the finish line on your first coast, your RunDisney Check in pass for your next race will say Eligible! Once you have traveled to your next race destination, head to the expo to obtain your gear! After picking up your bib at the expo, visit Runners Relations to get your Coast to Coast wristband! You must wear this wristband in order to obtain your challenge medal at the end of your race!
5. Complete Your Second Race:
it’s time to claim your well-deserved reward – the Coast to Coast Challenge medal! Visit the designated medal pick-up area after the race to receive your medal and celebrate your incredible achievement. The Coast to Coast Challenge medal serves as a symbol of your dedication, perseverance, and love for all things Disney.
The RunDisney Coast to Coast Challenge is an extraordinary opportunity for runners to combine their passion for running with the magic of Disney. My 2024 Coast to Coast journey was exhilarating and an unforgettable journey. Lace up your running shoes, embrace the challenge, and prepare for some magical miles with RunDisney!