If you’re a runner and love Disney, you probably know about and maybe even have participated in one of runDisney‘s many events at Walt Disney World, Disneyland and Disneyland Paris. Today marks the start of their biggest event of the year, Marathon Weekend, and if you’re a Donald fan, you’re in luck because he’s the mascot of the half marathon!
Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend consists of a 5K, 10K, half marathon and full marathon, one each morning starting on Thursday. Along with all the races, there is an expo at ESPN Wide World of Sports, where runners can pick up their bibs and participant t-shirts. Guests and runners alike can then experience a host of other items at the expo, from numerous vendors to character meet and greets to exclusive merchandise.
Now, we all know how much DuckTales fans love their Disney Duck merch, and let me tell you, if you’re a Donald fan and a runner, you’re in luck this weekend!
Like I said before, Donald is the mascot for this year’s half marathon, which means his bill is plastered on everything that has to do with that race. Let’s start with the clothing.
Each item comes in two colors. The men’s line is a blue, while the women’s is purple. Let’s take a look at the t-shirts first.
As you can see, the overall artwork is the same, with Donald’s shorts changing color to match the given shirt. This tee is a nice, light weight athletic shirt, perfect for those who like to work out or those who visit Florida in the summer. You can pick up these shirts for $39.99 each.
For those who want some longer sleeves, you’re in luck!
Both men and women have the option for a light weight hooded pullover. Interestingly, the design of the pullover differs this time, as does the art work. On the men’s Donald looks far more determined, which he looks very relaxed on the women’s. I guess that means you can choose which emotional state you like to see him in best? I’m not sure.
Both of these only have artwork on the front, with the backs being blank. They retail for $49.99 each.
Now, if pulling something over your head is a hassle and you just can’t be bothered most of the time, this last item is for you!
That’s right, there’s a zip-up jacket as well. This item appears to mash up some items from the previous two, while adding in a few fun twists.
Again, you’ll notice that the style of the jacket itself changes slightly for men and women.
The artwork on the front is the same, however, though the accent colors change to match the color it’s on. On the back of the men’s we see the happy Donald design we saw on the women’s pullover hoodie above, while the women get a brand new design on the back of theirs. These are going to hurt your wallet the most at $94.99 a piece.
(Before I go on, I should note that, if you’re a part of an affinity group, like Annual Passholders, your usually Disney Parks Merchandise discount should apply to all of these items.)
If clothes aren’t your thing, there are a few other items. First, there was a pin, but – unfortunately – it was sold out before I could get there. Each race has its own pin with its respective mascot on it. It’s possible they’ll restock as the weekend continues, but you never know.
I was able to spot this car magnet, which may have my favorite Donald of any of these items as he flexes and winks at whoever is looking. This was $9.99.
Finally, as you leave the expo they’re offering (for free, I think) airbrush tattoos, and – if I’m completely honest – I almost stopped to get one.
There are a ton of designs from favorite Disney characters to Disney Park icons, but take a look at #8 there! I wasn’t able to see one on anyone, but the Donald design looks so cool, and I can’t think of a better way of showing off your love for Donald than having him semi-permanently painted on your body, can you?
So there you have it! I think I caught it all. I’m interested to see if the #1 Duck himself makes an appearance before the half marathon. Mickey and Goofy were meeting guests today, but the cast member I asked wasn’t sure if the characters would change each day or not. If they do, I’ll update this post with more photos.
Until then, let us know what your favorite items are in the comments, and tell us if you’re participating in the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend – specifically the half marathon.
There’s a good chance Donald will be along that race course, so if you snag a photo with him, tag us on Twitter at @DuckTalks, so we can help cheer you on from our couches as we sip coffee after sleeping in on the weekend. (Just kidding, I admire anyone who’s going out there to run this weekend! So, good luck if that includes you!)