A true Disney fairytale unfolded at this year's Run Disney Springtime Surprise weekend, as Cole orchestrated a finish line proposal to Ashley that will leave you believing in happily-ever-afters. Their story perfectly captures why Run Disney events are so much more than just races – they're moments where memories are made, milestones are celebrated, and sometimes, lifelong commitments begin.

Cole shares every heart-pounding detail of his proposal planning, from timing the ring delivery perfectly to the nail-biting decision to run the entire 10-mile race with the precious jewelry secured on his pinky finger. The tension builds as he calculates exactly when and where to pop the question, eventually choosing the reunions area where Ashley could be surrounded by her Run Disney community. When she finally crosses the finish line, flag bobbing in her visor for easy spotting, the magic unfolds in a moment neither will ever forget.

What follows is equally enchanting, as the newly engaged couple celebrates at Magic Kingdom with castle photos (eventually featured on their wedding invitations) before building droids together. It's the perfect Disney day – a blend of romance, adventure, and pure joy that exemplifies why these race weekends hold such special meaning for so many runners.

But this episode isn't just about one couple's magical moment. Ashley, a Disney Travel Advisor, and Coach Christine deliver a masterclass on securing your runDisney spot and registration tips for the highly anticipated 2026 Springtime Surprise weekend (featuring friendship-themed races from Zootopia, Winnie the Pooh, Inside Out, and Lilo & Stitch). From registration strategies to accommodation tips, these Run Disney veterans share everything you need to know to make your race dreams come true – whether you're planning a proposal or simply chasing that perfect medal.

Ready to create your own extraordinary Disney running memories? Take these insider tips, mark your calendar for July 29th, and prepare to experience the magic of transforming miles into milestones. Whether you're a seasoned runner or first-timer, this episode proves that with Disney, every finish line can be just the beginning.

Want to book your very own magical trip? Find Ashley here.

Ready to kick off your extraordinary training? Join Coach Christine's waitlist here.

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Step aboard our adventure-filled podcast as we navigate the fascinating world of Disney's Jungle Cruise—from its humble beginnings as one of Disneyland's opening day attractions to its global status as a beloved cultural icon.

You'll discover how Walt Disney's original vision for a realistic wildlife experience transformed when Imagineers like Harper Goff and Bill Evans created a convincing jungle through innovative techniques—including flipping orange trees upside down to create instant exotic foliage. We explore how the initially serious, educational tone evolved into the pun-filled, skipper-led experience that guests cherish today, sharing some of the most groan-worthy jokes that have become part of Disney lore.

Our journey takes you through the different Jungle Cruise iterations across global Disney parks, each with unique elements—from Magic Kingdom's extended riverways to Tokyo's dynamic lighting effects and Hong Kong's supernatural finale. With special guest Lynn Kinny in full skipper attire, we unpack fascinating behind-the-scenes details that even devoted Disney fans might not know, including how Disneyland's man-made environment officially became a self-sustaining ecosystem after 55 years of growth.

The adventure continues as we dive into the 2021 Jungle Cruise film starring Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt, exploring its development, production challenges, and the numerous Easter eggs that connect it to the beloved attraction with co-captain, Sally Weyant. And, to cap things off, our Disney snack expert Kimba Watson rounds out the expedition with delicious jungle-inspired recipes perfect for your 5K celebration—from DIY Dole Whip to tropical hydration stations that will fuel your adventure.

Whether you're preparing for the Run Disney Virtual 5K Summer Series or simply fascinated by Disney history, this episode delivers skipper-worthy entertainment while providing practical tips for making your own jungle adventure extraordinary. Tag us in your Jungle Cruise-themed runs!!!

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Ever wonder what it takes to run 300+ marathons in full costume? Meet Charlotte, the runner who's redefining what's possible in both endurance and race day fashion.

Charlotte brings a refreshing perspective to ultra running that blends serious mileage with joyful celebration. Unlike many elite runners, she didn't start until her mid-30s after making lifestyle changes for better health. What began with simple run-walk intervals around her hometown loop evolved into an extraordinary journey through every U.S. state and beyond. Her approach to marathons—seeing "America 26.2 miles at a time"—reflects her philosophy that the journey matters as much as the finish line.

What truly sets Charlotte apart is her unwavering commitment to costumed running. Her motto—"head to toe, start to finish"—means she never sheds costume pieces, no matter the distance. From a three-tiered birthday cake with PVC pipe infrastructure to a space shuttle costume developed with her mom (an accomplished seamstress), Charlotte transforms races into performance art. When fellow runners inevitably ask at the finish, "Did you wear that the whole race?" she takes pride in always answering "Yes."

Charlotte's signature move happens at the 100K mark of ultras: her "Fireball dance" complete with Pitbull music and shared shots has earned her the nickname "Fireball Fairy" in ultra running circles. This blend of endurance and celebration perfectly captures her approach to the sport. As an UESCA certified ultra coach, she emphasizes proper pacing and mental resilience over obsessing about speed.

Now with her sights set on joining the exclusive "100 100s Club" (only about 32 people worldwide who've completed one hundred 100-mile races), Charlotte continues to embody how extraordinary achievements can come from finding joy in the process. Follow her journey on Instagram @marathoncostumechic or join the community at Disney Day Drinkers Running Team to witness how sparkle and grit can coexist beautifully on the ultra running trail.

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