Oh, runDisney, how I’ve missed you! So much so that I’ve registered for all three Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend races, the WDW Marathon’s Dopey Challenge, (aye caramba,) and thanks to my perfect status for the Fairy Tale Challenge, I’m now registered for the Princess Half Marathon!
Meaning I’ve just shelled out a LOT of money, but the joy I’ve received from runDisney for the past nine years makes it worth every penny.
So for those who are planning on registering for the 2022 Princess Half Marathon on August 24th, here are tips and answers to some FAQ!
Be sure to also check out my Everything You Need to know about the Princess Half Marathon post as well!
Will the races sell out?
The shorter 5k and 10k distances will most likely sell out first, based on the past two runDisney registration days. Seeing as how there are still bibs available for the Wine & Dine Half, Two-Course Challenge, the WDW Marathon, and Dopey Challenge, (thanks to spots opening up in early August,) I don’t think the Princess Half and Fairy Tale Challenge will sell out right away which is a far cry from chaotic registrations of the past.
However.
I have learned over the years that once you think you have runDisney figured out, a curveball is thrown to strike out all predictions. So. If you have your heart set on a certain race, be prepared to be at your computer the second registration opens just in case, especially since PHM is the most popular weekend, and rising Covid cases might future limit the number of spots open.
Will the races still be worth it, considering all the predicted changes?
runDisney is going to be different, that’s for sure.
Instead of face-to-face character photo stops, there will most likely be selfie stations only. Proof of Time requirements have also chance substantially and according to the website:
New this year, each runner will be assigned to one of the 4 start groups which will have designated arrival times.
Some folks are predicting that these four groups will consist of Group 1: elite runners; Group 2: Club runDisney members, Group 3: those with a sub 2:30 POT, and Group 4: everybody else. This is NOT yet confirmed, but there is a chance that those hoping to run as a group will be separated.
Things will be different. The entire world is different and changes are to be expected. For myself, I’m just beyond grateful there will be live races and I think runDisney will do all they can to make it a lovely, memorable experience. Of course, that’s easy for me to say since I’ve been able to experience many races in the past.
So my thoughts for those new to runDisney is this: If you keep your expectations realistic and are willing to pack your patience … you’re going to have an amazing time, changes and all!
Do you have any tips for after I register?
Oh, boy. Do I. About four years worth that you can find in this runDisney Tips Round-Up post! Please keep in mind that I am in the process of updating information that is no longer correct and to reflect current times. If you have any questions, feel free to ask!
And now, here’s some…
Registration Tips
BEFORE
- Create an account at runDisney.com if you haven’t done so already. It can be the same as your My Disney Experience login information.
- Plan on being at your computer/phone/tablet at 9:45am EST, ready to go, seeing as how registration has opened minutes early in the past.
- Make sure your credit card is also ready to go. (I save time by typing out my CC’s number and copying it for a quick paste, leaving out the dashes.) If you plan on paying with a Disney Gift Card, (bonus if you buy them beforehand with a Target Red Card, saving 5%,) make sure there’s enough room plus 6.6% processing fees on the card.
- If you’re using your phone or iPad, turn off the lock screen option so you won’t have to unlock your phone while waiting in the queue.
- Warn those around you that you’re gonna need some peace and quiet until you’re registered! 😉
DURING
- To start the process, go to runDisney’s PHM overview page. Start refreshing about 5 to 10 minutes prior and once the “registration opens soon,” turns into, “open,” click the link.
- Once you’re in the queue, DO NOT REFRESH YOUR SCREEN! I repeat. Do not refresh! After a while, you will be notified on the bottom of the screen how many minutes until it will be your turn.
- When it’s your turn, you will be forwarded to the registration page and asked to log-in. If you’ve registered for a runDisney race before, much of your information will be auto-filled, except for your shirt size, emergency contact/phone number, proof of time, etc.
- To save time, skip entering proof of time links and buying merchandise. You can go back and add that later. Be prepared to enter your expected finish time, however.
- If you plan on registering for more than one event, (for example, the 5k and challenge,) you will be prompted at the end to “add another registration.”
- Take note that your registration entry isn’t guaranteed until you hit PURCHASE and you receive a confirmation email.
AFTER
- Congratulations!!! You did it! Now take some time to breathe and celebrate. I can’t wait to see you there!
I hope this helps and if you have any questions, corrections, or tips of your own, please share them in the comments section!
Take care and have a joyful day!
