Happy Thursday, everyone! I’ve been thinking about all of the new changes that Run Disney has been going through and the rumored new ones (virtual race anyone?). It’s changed a lot since I started my own Run Disney journey in 2013. Some changes for the better and some- not so much.
But it’s had me reminiscing about the races we’ll never be able to do again. In particular, the Expedition Everest Challenge.
2015 was the final year for this Run Disney obstacle course event, but it already feels lost and forgotten.
My husband and I ran it in 2014 together. It was a unique Run Disney nighttime and obstacle 5k that ventured through Animal Kingdom. Runners were challenged to outrun the “mysterious yeti”. Running through tires, jumping over hay barrels and army crawling were the not-so-scary obstacles (Disney’s safety first style).
Hiking gear, yeti signs and faux crashed planes were all part of the staging decor. I’m sure it’s all collecting dust in some warehouse now.
After the obstacle course 5k through Animal Kingdom, runners collected flashlights and clues. You had to solve 3 clues and give the answer to a volunteer. After the final clue, you got your medal!
A few of our clues were hard to figure out. Loved this portion of the race.
After the race was over, runners celebrated into the early morning hours at the after party. Who doesn’t love cocktails and riding Expedition Everest?
This small Run Disney race will be forgotten as time goes on. Who knows if we’ll ever see another nighttime Run Disney race. But it was a fun event for all levels of runners and families who ran as a team. The best part of the race, was the faux compass medal.
RIP, Expedition Everest Challenge.
