Oct 11
17
Epcot: My Fondest Memories
On January 10, 2010, I ran my first marathon at Walt Disney World. It took me, literally, forever, but I finished. It is one of the most rewarding things I think I have ever done. 26.2 miles, even in a car is a long way.
One of the best parts about the Walt Disney World Marathon is that you get to run through virtually every park! I am going to be honest with you… There are a few parks/miles that I have absolutely no recollection of. I know I was alive, but that doesn’t mean that I was comprehending anything. Best of all, guess where you start and end the marathon? That’s right! In our favorite park, Epcot. The first 4 miles lead you straight through the enterence and backstage behind the Mexico pavilion and Test Track. I will never forget running underneath Spaceship Earth and down to World Showcase. The Christmas tree was still up out past the Fountain of Nations, and it just sparkled (or maybe I was crying… I can’t remember).
Around mile 24, you re-enter the park from the International Gateway, and head across the bridge to France, Morroco, Japan, Germany and around. By this time in the race, I really remember nothing. I remember thinking I could fall down. I remember smelling food, and I remember it being very sunny, but that is all.
In mile 25, You again go up to the Fountain of Nations and under Spaceship Earth. Right before I hit Mouse Gear, I remember seeing my brother, who had finally gotten his lazy butt out of bed and brought his disposable camera to take a picture of me… He’s a thoughtful boy that Ben. Once I got through Spaceship Earth, we headed to the right, and there, before me was the 26th mile sign. Hallelujah! (I actually said that out loud I think!) But wait, as I turned the corner to head down the home stretch, there was a gospel choir actually singing Hallelujah! I heard my mom yell my name as I crossed the finish line… It was just perfect.
I was very sore when it was over. My knees hurt, I was starving, and all I wanted was a chocolate milkshake from Beaches and Cream, which my mother happily got for me. After a very long shower, we headed back to Epcot for the evening, just to stroll at my painfully slow pace.
I had booked us dinner at Le Cellier, and honestly, all was right in my world that night. That was a sense of accomplishment that I don’t know if I can ever feel again. Your first marathon is something really special.
With that being said, I am planning on running my second this January, again at Walt Disney World. I am sure that the glowing silverness of the Epcot weenie will be beckoning me as I run out of Hollywood Studios and down the path to the finish line. I am so looking forward to it.
