We headed out and the walk wasn't too bad. About 10 minutes over to the event arena (including going through security) where we checked our bag and headed to the pre race area. There was not much there but 2 photo background opps and a long line for Portopotties. We split into corrals (I was in A and everyone else started in C). The sign said portopotty in the corrals but I did not find them. There were a few tucked behind a wall and I asked multiple volunteers and they all said to keep walking forward. It may have been a language barrier and I did not want to disobey/be that American. When I got in the corrals, there was random tape volunteers were holding up and told us to stop. Turns out they were splitting us into waves which was new. I ended up making friends with a CM that works at Cosmic Rays, met ladies from LA as well and saw a few people I know.
The race announcers spoke in both English and French which was interesting. They had high energy and actually weren't annoying. No stupid skits, just chatting and it helped pass the time. No French national anthem and I was a bit bummed as I really like the French one. They announced the start of the race and shot off fireworks about 2 min before the wheelchairs so I have no pics of the fireworks. For each group, they launched smoke which was new (see above).
When we finished we got food: chocolate sport drink, water, and Powerade. We waited for pictures for over 10 minutes so they definitely needed more photo areas. Afterwards we got a bag with food-an apple, peanuts, fruit snacks. It was great to have somewhere to store our stuff for the walk back. Walked back to the room and headed to shower. Starting at 7 means getting back late! Got izzy ready to go to the kids race. and then we got ready and went to watch the kids race
At the end we were able to see the start of the 1k and Sophie, a young girl with cerebral palsy with braces that walked the 1k with her dad! Turns out her parents are in one of the Disney groups I am in and I loved learning about her stories! Someone gave her their 5k medal :)
Overall, it was a fabulous race and considering that it was inaugural made it even better! I would hands down recommend this race to anybody. Most of it was in the park and the 14+ character stops and other stops was incredible and well worth the money paid.
Anyone else run the Disneyland Paris 5k? Would you run it?