Welcome to Dopey Training! (Yes, We Signed Up for All Four Races… On Purpose.)

Hi there! I’m 52, still young at heart, and apparently a little dopey—because I signed up for the Dopey Challenge at Walt Disney World. If you’re here, I’m guessing you either did the same, are thinking about it, or you’re just wondering what kind of people voluntarily wake up at 2:30 a.m. to run 48.6 miles over four days. (Spoiler: it’s people like us!)

The Dopey Challenge is a magical, exhausting, unforgettable experience: 5K on Thursday, 10K on Friday, Half Marathon on Saturday, and then, just for fun, a Full Marathon on Sunday. That’s four early mornings, four costumes (optional but encouraged), and more than a few moments where you’ll wonder what you’ve gotten yourself into.

This training guide was created with real life in mind—because I know we’re balancing jobs, families, messy kitchens, cranky knees, and the occasional "maybe I should just do the 10K" thought. It’s not just about crossing the finish line—it’s about getting there with joy, strength, and maybe even some toenails intact.

Inside, you’ll find training plans, meal ideas (for those of us who aren’t 22 and running on protein bars and adrenaline), shopping lists, and recipes. I’ll share the highs, the lows, and the honest moments in between—because training for Dopey isn’t just a physical journey. It’s a whole mood.

So lace up your shoes, pour yourself a big glass of water (or coffee… let’s be real), and let’s get started. We’re doing something amazing, and I’m so glad you’re here.

Let’s go the distance—with a little Disney magic and a whole lot of heart.

Dopey Training Plan.pdf

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