The annual Disneyland half-marathon and other races that take place in Disneyland has been cancelled in 2018 due to a number of construction projects taking place at the Disneyland Resort, RunDisney, Walt Disney Co.’s race organisation, announced on Wednesday, 18 Oct.
Races at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Paris will remain.
A Disneyland spokesman, George Savvas said construction of the 14-acre Star Wars Land: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland, and development around the resort area such as The Disneyland Eastern Gateway and a new four-diamond hotel in Downtown Disney, would affect future races since runners traverse a course in and around the Disneyland Resort.
“For fans who love to be part of runDisney events, we will continue to offer races at our other properties around the world in 2018,” George added.
According to Disney, the races bring in an estimated 25,000 people paying upwards of US$195 to participate in a half marathon run. The races, usually held during off-peak seasons, are a boon to the local economy, generating $20 million to $30 million in revenue to Orange County.
RunDisney is part of the Walt Disney Co.’s sports division and has grown to become one of the nation’s largest race organisers. RunDisney holds eight series of races such as marathons, half marathons, 10k, 5k and a kid’s race at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort.
It is unknown at this time when runDisney races will return to Disneyland. Disneyland will host its last runDisney event for the year on 9 -12 Nov, the Super Heroes Half Marathon weekend. Runners who pre-registered for race events in 2018 will receive a refund.
