Running with the Disney Heroes

In my opinion, there aren’t many things more inspiring than Spaceship Earth and the Magic Kingdom. The main reason I signed up for my first half marathon was to run through the Magic Kingdom. I really couldn’t imagine anything more exciting than having Mickey and Minnie cheering us on as we started.

And then, we heard something even more amazing – there was going to be a simultaneous race being held in Iraq – a Disney World Half Marathon for those deployed/working overseas. Those that had previously raced in Orlando didn’t want to miss their race and organized their own race.

Known as runDisney Heroes, Victory Base Complex, Baghdad, Iraq, hosted their own Disney Half Marathon. Now home to the U.S. Forces Head Quarters, the mission in Iraq is no longer combat focused; instead, the focus is on stability as well as to advise and train the Iraqi Security Forces. This allowed the Soldiers, Sailors, Airman, Marines, DOD Civilians, and Contractors a bit of time to train for their race. And, as sponsored by Disney, the nearly 500 people that participated were awarded the same medals and shirts that we received in Orlando.

As we lined up in our corrals (starting areas), we watched a short live interview with SFC Minnie in Iraq, who was telling us a little about their race. Organized by Air Force Major Devin Traynor, who had run the 2010 WDW Half Marathon with his wife, the 14 year AF veteran contacted Disney and planned a race for all the interested runners. With the help of U.S. Forces Iraq Public Affairs, they were able to upload and synchronize with Disney Orlando to hold the races simultaneously.

And, with the help of electronic training watches, Maj. Traynor and his wife were able to “run together,” finishing their 13.1 miles only 2 minutes apart.

To the 27,000 people that raced with me in Orlando, I hope you enjoyed your race as much as I did. And, to the nearly 500 people that raced with us from Iraq, thank you.

Jenn currently resides with her husband, 1 year old son, and 2 bratty dogs in a suburb of Washington, D.C. She also hosts her own blog, the Disney Babies Blog, where she shares her experiences, tips, and ramblings about traveling the parks with a baby. In her non-Disney life, Jenn is often found running, practicing yoga, or playing the clarinet in a military band in D.C.

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