251: From Track Shack to the Castle: The History of runDisney - Part 1

runDisney feels like it’s always been there, but it hasn’t. The real story includes years of pitching, countless meetings, tough operational compromises, and a whole lot of faith that runners would actually show up. We’re joined by Jon Hughes from Track Shack, the first race director of the Walt Disney World Marathon and one of the key voices who helped convince Disney a marathon belonged on property.Jon takes us back to the early days of Track Shack, when running specialty stores were rare and races were often built from scratch just to grow the sport. We dig into what makes a great race director, why course design and logistics matter more than most people realize, and how Disney’s marketing excitement didn’t always match the realities of operations. You’ll hear how the marathon finally got the green light, why the early course didn’t fully match the dream, and what it felt like to face a start line that ballooned to 8,400 runners before the first race ever happened.We also keep things practical and personal: training updates in peak summer heat, hydration lessons, the mental tricks that get us out the door, plus community news like our charity fundraising plans and the first-ever Rise and Run virtual trivia night. Then we roll into race reports from across the Rise and Run family, from local 5Ks and an 8K series with a baked potato finish to truly wild endurance feats.If you love runDisney history, marathon origin stories, or smart training talk that’s honest about real life, hit play. Subscribe, share the episode with a friend training for their next race, and leave a quick review to help more runners find the Rise and Run family.Track Shack WebsiteTrack Shack InstagramRise and Run LinksRise and Run Podcast Facebook PageRise and Run Podcast InstagramRise and Run Podcast Website and ShopRise and Run PatreonRunningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching (Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off)Send us Fan MailSupport the showRise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.Sponsor LinksMagic Bound Travel    Stoked Metabolic CoachingAffiliate LinksThe Start Line Co.Fluffy FizziesMona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza ApparelGoGuarded