Participating in a runDisney event offers a pirate's booty of additional perks: unique Park access, character interaction and signature Disney entertainment, to name a few. But a growing segment of the running populace has joined the sport for someone else's well-being.

Women-only running events (95% or greater female) are on the rise, with over 200 events in 2011.

There's a lot you might be tempted to bring with you on a runDisney event but it can weigh you down. These items are the essential ones you'll need to be prepared on a runDisney race.

Are you a Disney fan looking for a whole new way to experience Disney World? Then you should consider signing up for one of the many runDisney events that take place at Walt Disney World every year.

Endurance Racing tips from Jeff Galloway, the runDisney Official Training Consultant

"We attended D23′s Magic & Merriment in December 2010 at Walt Disney World. The three day event was held in early December, and overall, was a fun time. In 2011, Magic & Merriment will be two separate 2-day events. The event started at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on Friday, December 10th. That evening was check-in, an archives film screening, and a “surprise...."

On Sept. 2, 2010, Darrell Fry, Sports Media Director, Walt Disney World, announced on the Disney Parks Blog that Jeff Galloway is the official training consultant for the renamed runDisney races at the Disney theme parks. Galloway will offer training tips and programs for the runDisney series of endurance events.

Why do the Disney parks have so many special places? What are the underlying urban design patterns that make this all work? This series look deeply at things that may get overlooked. It isn't all about story. Sometimes it is just about good design.

The Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon was held a few short weeks ago and in my opinion, it is the BEST runDisney event! Here are the top 5 reasons on why you need to run this race next year: