I didn't fully understand the benefits of running in a two person team, but seemed like a good option when that question came up during registration. DG and I are a team in real life - every day. So even though we won't be running side-by-side on race day, we are training together, we are preparing for this together and supporting each other through it.
Maybe someday I will be fast enough that we can keep a comparable pace. But we are running this race for different reasons. This is the first HM for us both. For myself - the goal is to finish - preferably in an upright position, on my own steam. DG wants to finish as well - in the best time he possibly can. That means he does not intend to stop for character photos. Me, well, as slow as I am - I may not have the luxury of stopping to use a restroom much less stand in line for a photo. I'll be using every ounce of effort to stay just ahead of the dreaded sweeper bus.
But different goals aside, we are a team. And like so many others before us, will be our partner's biggest cheerleader come race day.
Just for fun, I looked up past team results and took a peek at all the names. I almost chose "Happily Ever After" and I see that was a popular option for some husband/wife teams. Some of the names are hilarious and others are really sweet. My favorite however, is the very last team on the list, in order of finish times: a 53 and 54 year old husband/wife team called the "Bionic Duo". They crossed the finish line together at 3:53:46. I wanna be one half of a bionic duo when I am 54! Don't you?
Update: I see this page is getting more views than any of my other posts, so I feel I should refresh this a bit with some tips and information.
The 411: When you register for certain runDisney events: currently the full Marathon, Half marathons, and some of the Challenges, you are given an option to run as part of a Team.
I've found out there are a few tangible benefits to running as a Team:
- When you check in at the Expo, you will receive two bibs. The first bib has your name, your runner number, corral letter, and your time tracking chip (on the back). The second bib has your runner number and your team name. Whether you wear your Team bib or not, it makes a great race souvenir.
- There are designated award categories for races with Teams: e.g. for Princess: Sister/Sister, Mother/Daughter, Co-ed Open, Female Open, etc. So you will have an overall ranking, and also a team ranking for your race(s).
- You will have a buddy to pump you up through the training months and on race day. Whether you run side by side the whole race, or start in separate corrals and meet up at the finish line, you are no longer just running for yourself. Your team mate is counting on you to finish!
- Currently, there are no extra fees for Team registration. That may change in the future, but that is the case right now. (ETA: This has already changed - at least for Princess Half) Check the registration fees carefully for the event you (and your teammate) plan to run.
So with these great incentives to be in a Team, why NOT?
For name ideas, go crazy and be creative!
- Think of your favorite movies or characters or a pun.
- If you get stuck, check out previous race results to see what others have come up.
- Remember, it is a Disney event, so keep it PG-rated.
- For costumes, dress in a similar theme or in identical outfits.
Finally, the most important thing to remember:
On race day, you may wear both bibs or just one. If you wear just one bib, make certain to wear the one with your name and corral (also containing your tracking chip). Event staff and volunteers will be checking bibs at corral entrances. You don't want to wear the team bib only, and not have proof of your corral placement or your race times. If you wear the wrong bib, you might be placed into the last corral. If you want to wear both bibs - and some do, wear the team bib on your back.
Run Happily!
-DisneyBride
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