Dick Batchelor Run for the Children 5K - Race Recap

Last weekend, my husband, friend and I participated in the 33rd annual Dick Batchelor Run for the Children.  I love theme parks and I love running so any event that puts these two things together is great for me.  This race was another one put on by Track Shack.  They are behind some great Orlando races including the runDisney races.  This was our second Track Shack race - the first one being the Vanessa Welsh Reindeer Run in December.

This was an awesome course starting at the Universal Orlando Resort parking garage, going through both Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure and finished at City Walk in front of the Hard Rock Cafe.

We left my house at 5:30am since we are about one hour away from Universal Resort.  A quick stop to get some Cliff bars and water and to meet up with my parents who were joining us to cheer us on.  When we arrived at Universal Resort, there was a lot of traffic to park but employees got everyone parked quickly.  Rick and I went to pick up our bibs and t-shirts while our friend Keith went to do same day registration.  It was all very quick and efficient.  

We then sent my daughter and parents to the viewing areas while we headed to the start line.  A few minutes later, the National Anthem and then we were off.  Rick is a much faster runner than I am so he went on ahead.  Keith was walking the race so shortly after crossing the start line, I was on my own.

Keith, Rick and I at the start line

The beginning of the race took us Hollywood way, under Universal Blvd, back towards City Walk and towards Islands of Adventure entrance.  Spectators were able to view from the second level of  City Walk.

Entering Islands of Adventure...

 Before I knew it, we were already at the first mile marker

It was around Toon Lagoon that my bladder betrayed me.  I had to make a quick pit stop and was thankful for a real bathroom.

When we entered the The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, there were Hogwarts "wizards" cheering us on so I took a selfie with this great guy.

More support from the wonderful wizards of Hogwarts through Hosmead

Beautiful view of Hulk coaster

The transition from the Islands of Adventure to Universal Studios included some back stage areas.  This was also where the water stop was for the race.

Shortly after entering Universal Studios, we pass the second mile marker.

Looking down Studio Drive.  We then made a right turn towards Universal's newest ride - Transformers

Running towards Transformers.... I so wanted to ride.  I love this ride.  If Universal opened rides during this race, it would take me two hours to finish.

Some Universal employees were out cheering us on

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Empty New York streets

Running by Central Park

Revenge of the Mummy... I love this ride...it's my favorite indoor coaster 

More empty New York streets

Heading towards the construction area for the new The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.

Running through Springfield.  I almost wished that Lard's Doughnuts was open for our run.

Heading back down Hollywood Blvd, I knew the finish line was probably close

Mile marker 3 right before we head back towards City Walk

The finish line

Rick finished the race in 30 minutes.  I finished in around 45 minutes.  I once again forgot to stop my Runkeeper after crossing the finish line.  Because this was a fun run, it was not chipped.  Keith came in shortly after I did.    

This is a great race and I highly recommend it.  It's not too big, it's well run, and has great scenery.  There were vendors at the finish line but we were cold and did not take the time to walk around.  Instead we headed straight for the Starbucks at City Walk for some hot coffee.  

We then decided to stay and play in the parks for a few hours.  It was fun to spend some time in the parks with my favorite people.

What's your favorite local race?  What's your favorite park about it?