Disney and Runner's World team up for special Marathon Weekend package

The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend in January has been designated a Runner's World Challenge event where runners will be able to train virtually with Runner's World editors and enjoy some VIP race experiences, Disney announced this week.

The weekend includes the half marathon on Jan. 12, 2013, and the marathon Jan. 13. Those who are especially ambitious can choose to run the Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge, in which participants complete the half marathon on Saturday and the marathon on Sunday to qualify for Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge medal.

This year's marathon course will include not only all four parks, as it normally does, but adds the Walt Disney World Speedway and Champion Stadium ballpark at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

Those who want to sign up can click on Runner's World challenge at www.rundisney.com for registration information or call 407-939-7781.

“We’ve planned 2013 to be the biggest year ever for the Runner’s World Challenge, and we’re excited to be collaborating with a great new partner for this kick off in January at Walt Disney World for the 20th anniversary Disney Marathon Weekend,” David Willey, Runner's World editor-in-chief and Rodale Inc. Active Living Group General Manager, said in a news release.

The Walt Disney World Marathon Course from Disney

Challenge participants will have exclusive access to a Challenge-only website where they can ask questions that will be answered by Runner's World editors.

The package includes:

• Entry into the 20th Anniversary Walt Disney World Marathon, Half Marathon or Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge with preferred corral placement
• Three-night stay at Disney’s Yacht or Beach Club Resort
• Private packet pick-up and hospitality suite at the resort
• Keepsake 20th Anniversary Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend gift
• A Runner’s World Challenge tech shirt
• Course strategy session with the Runner’s World experts and editors
• Exclusive shakeout run with the Runner’s World editors
• Entry to the Pasta in the Park Party on Saturday night Jan. 12 at Epcot with Runner’s World VIPs & editors
• Private transportation to and from the start and finish lines
• Entry to the Race Retreat which includes pre- and post-race hot and cold beverages, dedicated stretching area, and private portalets & bag check, post-race buffet, massage and live results
• Post-race celebration on Sunday night at the Cool Down at Downtown Disney