runDisney has announced late this evening that The Walt Disney World Half Marathon course will be shortened due to the expected severe weather on the course.
In addition to the shorter distance (see below for new course map) which now omits Magic Kingdom, the race will begin 15 minutes early at 4:45 am, with the aim of having all runners depart the course by 8:00 am. Note that spectator viewing in Magic Kingdom will no longer be available.
Local forecasts indicate there will be sustained rainfall from 8am through to midday, with wind guests up to 19mph.
Here is the complete statement from runDisney.
As you prepare for the Walt Disney World Half Marathon on Saturday, Jan. 6, we want you to be aware that our teams are keeping a close eye on local weather conditions. The safety of our Guests and Cast Members is our top priority and we have made the difficult decision to modify the course due to severe weather, including expected lightning in the area after 9:00 am. Given this weather forecast, our goal is to have everyone off the course by 8:00 am.
In addition to a shortened distance, the Half Marathon will begin 15 minutes early at 4:45 am. This earlier race start time will not affect Start Group Open/Close times or pre-Race Transportation
Important Details:
Participants registered for Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge, the Dopey Challenge, as well as the runDisney Coast to Coast Race Challenge who complete the shortened course on pace will still be eligible for their challenge medals.
Updated course maps showing modifications are now available on the Digital Expo & Event Guide.
Spectator viewing in Magic Kingdom will no longer be available. Spectators wishing to cheer on participants can view updated course maps via the Digital Expo & Event Guide.
Expo hours for the runDisney Health and Fitness Expo will not be affected, and the Expo will remain open from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m..
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