Brazilian Runners Dominate the 2024 Walt Disney World Marathon
The spirited competition between Brazilian training partners reached a climax on Sunday as Vanilson Neves triumphed over his compatriot, Daniel dos Santos, securing his victory in the Walt Disney World Marathon. This victory marked the 17th time in the last 19 years that a Brazilian runner has claimed the top spot in this renowned 26.2-mile race, drawing participants from across the globe.
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The rivalry between Neves and dos Santos intensified during this year’s race, with Neves strategically gaining the lead amid the cool morning temperatures and overcast skies that enveloped all four Disney theme parks. Neves maintained his position throughout the race, crossing the finish line with a time of 2:26:51. Although dos Santos closely trailed with a time of 2:27:25, the victory was firmly in the hands of Neves. Prescott Leach of Waltham, Massachusetts, also put up a strong performance, securing the third spot with a time of 2:28:17.
For Neves, the win held special significance as he revealed foregoing the celebrations of Christmas and New Year’s Eve to channel his focus on the crucial final stretch of training. Now, with the triumph at the Walt Disney World Marathon, he plans to savor the holiday spirit and revel in the success of his marathon performance.
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In the women’s division, Stephanie Muscat of Grand Rapids, Michigan emerged as an unexpected winner in her debut marathon. With a winning time of 2:48:08, Muscat displayed impressive prowess, finishing five minutes ahead of Georganne Watson of Phoenixville, Pennsylvania (2:53:12), and Samantha Palmer of Gainesville, Florida (2:53:48).
Wheelchair division standout Brian Siemann of Savoy, Illinois continued his dominance by securing his eighth consecutive victory (1:58:18). In the women’s wheelchair division, Heather Sealover of Bossier City, Louisiana clinched the top spot (2:04:38).
Post-race celebrations resonated throughout Disney’s theme parks, as thousands of runners reveled in their marathon accomplishments. The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, which included a 5K, a 10K, a half marathon, and a marathon, along with a health and fitness expo, showcased the unique camaraderie among runners of all ages and skill levels.
As the marathon season unfolds, the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend at Disneyland Resort in California is next in line, followed by the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend (Feb. 22-26) at Walt Disney World Resort.
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