By Angela Charlton, PhD
Manager of NFL Player Engagement
Where can you find former NFL linebacker Eddie Mason and former NFL defensive tackle Don Davey discussing running, life lessons, Cinderella, Snow White, and Mickey Mouse running a Marathon? Where else but the Walt Disney World Marathon! 2013 marked the 20th anniversary of the Walt Disney World Marathon and the 5th year that Cigna supported this event. Cigna invited Don Davey and Eddie Mason to discuss the physical and mental benefits of staying active and fit as well as their insights on improving health and well-being through physical fitness, mental strength, and giving back to the community. Prior to the races, some of the tips they shared were that the key to success starts and ends with training, the importance of preparing yourself mentally, and the importance of a support team and connecting with others.
Also attending the celebration and participating in the Family Fun Run 5k was a team comprised of staff members from Cigna, Aon Hewitt, and NFL Player Engagement staff Mary-ann Fleming and Angela Charlton. Troy Vincent, Vice President of NFL Player Engagement, kicked off the 5k race that proceeded through the Epcot Center.
There were numerous events presented during this fun-filled weekend. There was a Disney Health and Fitness Expo, runDisney Kids Races, Mickey Mile, Pasta in the Park Party, Walt Disney World Half-Marathon presented by Cigna, Walt Disney World Marathon presented by Cigna, and The Cool Down Party at Downtown Disney. The main event, the Marathon which was featured on Sunday, welcomed over 25,000 participants. The 26.2 mile Marathon went through, the Magic Kingdom, the Walt Disney World Speedway, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, ESPN Wild World of Sports Complex, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and finished at the Epcot Center.
What an unbelievable sight! There were participants of all ages, some in strollers, moms, dads, brothers, sisters, grandparents, friends, co-workers, and many of them dressed as Disney characters! There was even a family that had four generations of participants It was such a great experience!
If you’re ever looking for an event for the entire family that promotes good health, a fit body, and running through an amusement park with Disney characters, take the family to the Walt Disney World Marathon! See you there next year!