184: The Culinary Crown Showdown: Who Takes Home the Golden Whip?

04/03/25 • 111 min

From Disney culinary champions to running through every town in Connecticut, this episode of Rise and Run serves up a delicious mix of Disney dining discussions and an inspiring look at one of running's most unique communities.
As the hosts close out their March Madness tournament of Disney table-service restaurants, passionate debates erupt over beloved dining spots like Beer Garden, Ohana, Boma, and California Grill. Watch as they navigate through tough decisions, occasional tie-breaking coin flips, and personal dining memories before crowning a champion that might surprise you.
The heart of this episode features a captivating conversation with members of the Connecticut 169 running society. Founded in 2012, this remarkable community challenges runners to complete races in all 169 towns across Connecticut. Their stories reveal delightful traditions (like mandatory tutus for 100-town celebrations), the thrill of conquering "elusive towns" that rarely host races, and even dogs who've completed the entire challenge. As one member beautifully states, "You show up for the running, but you stay because of the people."
Between heartfelt remembrances of a beloved community member, essential Springtime Surprise meet-up details, and a race report highlighting listener achievements across the country, this episode showcases what makes the running community so special—the connections formed while putting one foot in front of another.
Planning to be at Walt Disney World for Springtime Surprise? Look for the hosts at the expo or pre-race gatherings, and don't miss their Saturday meetup at Disney Springs where homemade cookies await!

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Previous Episode

183: The Appetizer to the Sweet 16

This week's episode opens with a deeply moving tribute to Erin Petz, a cherished member of the running community who recently lost her battle with cancer at just 43 years old. The hosts share personal memories of Erin's vibrant spirit, contagious laugh, and unwavering kindness that touched so many lives through her podcasting work on "Will Run For" and her presence at countless runDisney events.
The episode then shifts to exciting news that had the runDisney community buzzing—the long-awaited return of the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend (January 29-February 1, 2026), with registration opening April 22nd for Club runDisney members and April 29th for general registration.
Detailed previews of the upcoming Springtime Surprise weekend follow, including transportation logistics, course highlights, and the return of the popular Rise and Run meetup at Disney Springs on Saturday at 3pm. A special Muppet Vision 3D farewell gathering is also announced for Friday at 2pm.
The team continues their March Madness Dining Challenge with passionate debates about Walt Disney World's best restaurants, featuring several upsets and Cinderella stories advancing to the Sweet 16. Special guest Thomas Stokes drops by with training program updates and announces a six-month coaching scholarship opportunity.
Whether you're preparing for next week's races, planning for Disneyland's return, or simply seeking connection within the running community, this episode beautifully balances celebration and commemoration, reminding us that through both joy and loss, this community remains steadfast

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Next Episode

185: Listener Questions: Rise and Run Host Edition

Ever wonder what goes on in the minds of your favorite Rise and Run Podcast hosts? Episode 185 pulls back the curtain as we answer your specific questions about our individual journeys, preferences, and experiences.
The conversation takes us deep into what makes each host unique in their approach to Disney running. Jack explains why ultramarathons and runDisney challenges scratch different itches despite both being "fun runs". Bob shares his transformative experience at the 2016 Wine and Dine Half Marathon when, at 62, he completed his first runDisney race in nearly three decades with a smile that never faded.
We get personal as hosts reveal their favorite Disney characters and attractions, with Alysha struggling to choose between Dopey and Kevin from Up, and John confessing his lifelong admiration for Darth Vader. Greg takes us to Aulani, describing how the resort's authentic cultural elements create a uniquely meaningful Hawaiian experience.
The conversation turns practical as we discuss our biggest race mistakes and the lessons they taught us. From hydration failures to loose shoes causing blisters, these hard-earned insights might save you from similar pitfalls. We also look ahead, contemplating where we'll be with runDisney in five to ten years.
Perhaps most touching are the stories of magical race moments – Bob pushing his friend Woody through an entire half marathon while wearing a walking boot, and Jack's emotional experience as a Galloway pacer watching runners achieve personal records. These moments remind us why we keep coming back to the Disney parks time after time.
Join us for this uniquely personal episode that strengthens the bonds of our Rise and Run family. Whether you're a longtime listener or joining us for the first time, you'll walk away feeling like you've just had coffee with friends who share your passion for running through the most magical places on earth.

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Rise and Run - 184: The Culinary Crown Showdown: Who Takes Home the Golden Whip?

Transcript

Speaker 300:00:04.866

3 am again . Why did I ever think this was a good idea ?

Speaker 300:00:15.022

Welcome to the Rise and Run podcast . Join our group of Run Disney friends . As we talk about running at Walt Disney World and beyond . We'll discuss recent runs , training , upcoming races and surprise topics suggested by you , our listeners .

Speaker 300:00:31.