The Dopey Challenge – Disney Run: Orlando, Florida, January 3–10, 2023 – Marathon #7
Hold on tight, this post is packed with so much excitement, you might need a seatbelt!
It all started when I was chatting about running races at my nail salon in Kansas City, and a lady overheard me. She told me she and her husband were doing the Dopey Challenge in 2022. I had never heard of it, but it sounded like such a cool thing to do. At the time, I was still relatively new to running, but I was inspired. I decided to sign up for the next year’s challenge, not realizing just how big a deal it was or how popular this event had become. Apparently, getting in wasn’t a given—it was a lottery, and it was very competitive. But lucky for me, I got in! From that point on, the plans started to fall into place, and I knew this would be a special race.
I decided to make this one a family affair. What better way to get the grandkids excited about my marathons than combining it with a Disney trip? Surely, I could convince everyone to come along for the ride! Thanks to my incredible travel agent, Rene Lavigne, we were able to coordinate everyone’s schedules and make the trip happen. We arrived in time to enjoy all three Disney parks and, of course, all four of my races!
The Dopey Challenge is a big test of endurance, as it requires running four races in four days. I didn’t realize how much of a challenge that would be, especially with the sheer number of participants. I quickly learned that each morning would start at 2:30 am, just to get to the starting line in time. And then there was the wait. Even after the gun went off, it took another 45 minutes before I’d actually cross the start line—definitely a test of patience, especially with nerves running high.
I set a few goals for myself during this challenge: I wanted to get at least two character photos in each race (because who doesn’t want to snap pics with Disney characters?) and, of course, finish the marathon in under six hours. I’m happy to report that I accomplished both! The time may not have been my fastest in any of the races, but with the long lines for photos, that was to be expected. But the best part? I managed to get the ultimate prize photo: Dopey himself! It was a perfect moment for the Dopey Challenge.
One of the most memorable parts of this race wasn’t just the running, though—it was having my whole family there cheering me on. I was lucky enough to have my grandkids, kids, and even Grandma Becky by my side. Becky was a huge help with the kids, and I think she had some fun too!
But the moment I’ll never forget? Crossing the finish line of the marathon and hearing the roar of my grandbabies cheering, “Go Grammie!” They had made signs, and they were so proud of me. It brought tears to my eyes. The support from them made that marathon finish one of the most special moments of my entire running journey.
While I still have plenty of states left to run, I have no doubt this will go down as one of my favorite finishes—made all the more amazing by my personal cheer squad.