About this episode

The episode explores the history of runDisney with insights from Jon Hughes, focusing on the early days of Track Shack and the establishment of the Walt Disney World Marathon.

runDisney feels like it’s always been there, but it hasn’t. The real story includes years of pitching, countless meetings, tough operational compromises, and a whole lot of faith that runners would actually show up. We’re joined by Jon Hughes from Track Shack, the first race director of the Walt Disney World Marathon and one of the key voices who helped convince Disney a marathon belonged on property. Jon takes us back to the early days of Track Shack, when running specialty stores were rare...

People in this episode

Guest: Jon Hughes

Topics covered

• runDisney
• marathon history
• Track Shack
• running events
• Disney events

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Track Shack, Walt Disney World Marathon, Disney

More episodes of Rise and Run

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• 248: Ready, Set...Train! Chris Twiggs Kicks Off runDisney Training · June 25, 2026 · 2h 12m
• 247: A True Springtime Surprise and Our Last Meal: Disney Parks Edition · June 18, 2026 · 1h 43m

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