Healthy Runner Podcast 292. How I Conquered the Dopey Challenge Feeling Strong, Durable, and Healthy (2026 RunDisney Marathon Weekend Recap)
Most runners go into RunDisney Marathon Weekend just hoping to survive it.
In this episode, I share how I completed the 2026 Dopey Challenge, four races totaling 48.6 miles and finished feeling strong, durable, and pain free.
This is not just a race recap. It is a breakdown of the exact training, fueling, recovery, and race strategy decisions that allowed my body to handle four consecutive race days without breaking down.
You will hear: - How I structured training after a recent marathon - Why patience and pacing mattered more than fitness - How I approached fueling and recovery across all four races - The biggest mistakes runners make during RunDisney Marathon Weekend - And what actually allows runners to finish strong instead of just surviving
You will also hear stories from runners in our community who conquered all 48.6 miles and experienced what is possible when you stop guessing and start training with structure.
If you are training for RunDisney Marathon Weekend, the Dopey Challenge, or simply want to run long term without constantly worrying about injuries, this episode will give you a clear blueprint for how to approach big goals with confidence.
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Episodes and Resources mentioned in this episode:
Listen to my previous episode on 6 Steps to Mastering runDisney Training
Listen to my previous episode on How to Prepare for RunDisney Marathon Weekend: 7 Race Week Essentials for Dopey Challenge Runners
Listen to my previous episode on my 2024 Disney Marathon Weekend Recap Conquering the Dopey Challenge
Listen to my previous episode on what to do after you sign up for the Dopey challenge
Watch how Sonya overcame her fears to finish her first marathon in Disney by getting stronger not only physically but mentally here!
Watch how Dipti went from chronic shin splints for over a year to running the Disney Dopey Challenge in 6 months here!
Watch how Stephanie went from IT band pain with every long run to conquering the 48.6 mile Dopey Challenge here!
A big thanks to ucan for your support for this episode!
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Connect with Dr. Duane:
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- duane@sparkhealthyrunner.com
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