ABC11's Barbara Gibbs and photojournalist Bob Gaughran are on the road right now to Walt Disney World for one of the largest running events in the country.
They're traveling to Orlando, Florida, to take part in run Disney's Marathon Weekend, an annual event that draws thousands of runners from across the U.S. and beyond.
The four-day celebration combines fitness, entertainment and fundraising at what's known as "the most magical place on earth."
Now in its 33rd year, the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend features a series of races starting Thursday through Sunday.
The races
- Thursday - 5K
- Friday - 10K
- Saturday - Half-marathon
- Sunday - Marathon
Each race winds through all four Disney theme parks and includes entertainment throughout the course, including giant video screens, Disney characters, DJs, high school bands and choirs.
While the races attract serious runners, the event is designed for participants of all experience levels. Many runners take part simply for fun, while others use the weekend to raise money and awareness for a wide range of charitable organizations.
Gibbs is doing both. In addition to covering the event, she is participating in Friday's 10K while fundraising for Blood Cancer United's Team in Training. Blood Cancer United, formerly known as the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, is the official charity partner for the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend.
Emily Blust, Blood Cancer United's Executive Director in North Carolina and Virginia, emphasizes the importance of the fundraising tied to the event.
"The funds raised through the Walt Disney World Marathon weekend and all of our other peer-to-peer fundraising events are truly critical for our mission. Our mission is to find a cure for blood cancer and to improve the quality of life for patients and their families," Blust said.
Coverage from Orlando will begin Thursday and Friday, highlighting the excitement and emotion surrounding the races. If you are taking part in RunDisney's Marathon Weekend - or know someone who is - reach out so we can congratulate you!