, Fla. — Thousands of runners were at Epcot Thursday morning to tackle the first race of the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend.
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Runners took off from the start line at 5 a.m.
“I’ve never seen people wake up before the sun be this happy other than Disney people, it’s the best people to be around,” a participant said. “It’s the most positive early morning experience you can hope for.”
Before the sun was up, runners gathered at the start line to take on a 5K around the world.
“It’s awesome,” another participant said. “Great event, great energy, loved all the countries. It was really good.”
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Thursday, runners were decked out in full costumes as they trekked around Epcot. Many of them gearing up for the Dopey Challenge.
It’s called a challenge because runners participate in Disney’s 5K, 10K, half, and full marathons over the span of four days.
“There’s a lot of training to it but its also very mental,” Tammy Goddard, a race participant, said. “Even if your body gives out your mind is going to carry you. I just go out there, get my miles in, and keep my chin up.”
We’ve told you about Rob Verhelst, also known as Fireman Rob. He’s taking on the challenge while also wearing 35 extra pounds of firefighter gear. We caught up with him Thursday morning!
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“For the start of the dopey this is great, this is only 3 miles,” Verhelst said. “It gives me faith for the next few days to just, it’s going to be fun.”
He’s using this weekend as a chance to inspire the kids of the Boys and Girls Club of Central Florida to be resilient.
“The excitement around everything to finish something you’ve started,” Verhelst said. “This is what it’s all about. You get out here and inspire.”
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