The first ever Disney Inspiration Run will take place on September 15 & 16 at the Shanghai Disney Resort. The event will be held as a collaboration between Shanghai Disney Resort and the Shanghai International Marathon. The race will feature immersive storytelling to cater to all running enthusiasts and Disney fans alike.
“The first-ever Disney Inspiration Run at Shanghai Disney Resort this fall is the newest addition to a long line of favorite Disney traditions to come to Shanghai,” said Philippe Gas, General Manager of Shanghai Disney Resort. “The event offers distance options for everyone, including for serious runners as well as guests of all ages who may want to simply enjoy some fun exercise and entertainment at Disney. But no matter your level, we look forward to offering an unforgettable Disney experience, allowing participants to explore the resort’s spectacular landscape and entertainment while pursuing a healthy lifestyle.”
3.5 kilometer, 5 kilometer and 10 kilometer races will be held offering the chance for everybody to participate. The race routes will stretch through Shanghai Disneyland park, Disneytown and around Wishing Star Lake. Favorite Disney characters will also be present along the race track to give runners extra motivation. Registration for the 2018 Disney Inspiration Run will open in July and more information will be announced soon. So be sure to check back to WDWNT.
The Disney Inspiration Run is not an official RunDisney event. However, I would not be surprised to see a RunDisney event come to Shanghai in the coming years. If this race weekend is successful, hopefully it will pave the way for similar events. It is similar to RunDisney in that characters will be placed along the route, yet the official press release states that “Disney characters might also make surprise appearances to cheer for runners in a uniquely Disney way.” This may not guarantee meet ‘n’ greets, but probably just characters waving to runners, although it is quite early to make predictions. RunDisney race weekends have proven successful outside of the US with the Disneyland Paris Half Marathon entering its third year in September. Read all about it here. 10K Marvel themed running events have also been held in Hong Kong Disneyland in 2016 and 2017, but they were not formally branded as RunDisney. Would you travel to Shanghai to take part in an official RunDisney event?
