The Walt Disney World Half Marathon has been shortened on account of a less than favorable weather report. A posting on the runDisney website made the announcement. Along with changing the length of the course, the start time has also been modified to start 15 minutes earlier. The following announcement was posted on the runDisney website:
runDisney Half Marathon Update: Saturday’s Half Marathon race course and start time have been modified due to forecasted severe weather, including expected lightning in the area. Start time is now 4:45am ET.
A link on the main page also led to more details as seen here:
Course Modifications for Walt Disney World Half Marathon
As you prepare for the Walt Disney World Half Marathon on Saturday, Jan. 6, we want you to be aware that our teams are keeping a close eye on local weather conditions. The safety of our Guests and Cast Members is our top priority and we have made the difficult decision to modify the course due to severe weather, including expected lightning in the area after 9:00 a.m. Given this weather forecast, our goal is to have everyone off the course by 8:00 a.m.
In addition to a shortened distance, the race will begin 15 minutes early at 4:45 a.m. This earlier race start time will not affect Start Group Open/Close times or pre-Race Transportation.
We know this is disappointing news, but we look forward to seeing you along the course and hope you have a great race. Throughout the weekend, we encourage you to continue monitoring the Digital Expo & Event Guide, as well as follow runDisney on Facebook, Threads and Instagram for the most up-to-date information.
Important Details:
- Participants registered for Goofy’s Race and
a Half Challenge, the Dopey Challenge, as well as the runDisney Coast to Coast Race Challenge who complete the shortened course on pace will still be eligible for their challenge medals.
- Updated course maps showing modifications are now available on the Digital Expo & Event Guide.
- Spectator viewing in Magic Kingdom will no longer be available. Spectators wishing to cheer on participants can view updated course maps via the Digital Expo & Event Guide.
- Expo hours for the runDisney Health and Fitness Expo will not be affected, and the Expo will remain open from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
For any additional questions, visit the “contact us” section of runDisney.com.
Schedule:
Saturday, January 6, 2024 | 4:45am – 8:00am
Race Start/Finish: EPCOT® Parking Lot.
Official race start: 4:45am
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It is unknown if there will be any change to Sunday’s full marathon. Daps Magic will follow this story and provide updates as they become available.
