I am one of those people that if you see me running, I suggest you run faster because something is after me. Suzanne Becker and her sister, Jennifer Wardell, choose to run for pleasure. The sisters had separate run journeys because they don’t live near each other, but over a year ago they began dreaming about running together in the Disney Pixar Toy Story Race. They prepared for the 10-mile race by running half marathons. Their dream came to fruition April 16, when they entered this unique Florida race.
Jennifer Wardell and Suzanne Becker
Suzanne said the Toy Story Race took runners on a great course with hundreds of cast members showing up at 5 a.m. to cheer them throughout Epcot, Hollywood Studios and the surrounding roadways. Even though the two might have been considered costumed in their pigtails and Jennifer ‘s pink Barbie themed outfit, their favorite part of the race was running alongside more extravagantly costumed runners, some of which were wildly inspiring and showed real dedication. Evidently, Jogging Jack Sparrow appeared and ran just like the legendary Captain Jack Sparrow in full pirate gear as well as a slew of Bo Peeps running along with the sheep while keeping pace with hundreds of Buzz Lightyears.
Suzanne said this race was also very important to them because, “Our registration fees will have a positive impact in a child’s life which means the world to us, especially since my best friend’s grandson was able to participate in the Make-A-Wish program this past December.” Disney makes a charitable donation to Make -A-Wish Central & North Florida for each Springtime Surprise Race Weekend.
What a fun time this was for two really cool sisters, and I know their running journeys are just starting.
All of us have a story and I want to tell yours! Send them to susan@knoxtntoday.com
