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Exclusive pre-race walkout to the starting area is probably the single best perk of the Runner's World Challenge. From the Race Retreat tent, did you know the starting area is just a short five-minute stroll? It is, if you get to take this special shortcu

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A group of Runner's World Challenge participants leave the woods and wind their way through the backstage area of the race starting area at the 2014 Walt Disney World Marathon. Photo by Lani Teshima.

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A rare sight and one only visible to cast members and race crew. Runner's World Challenge participants also get to walk past the starting line of the race as part of the pre-race shortcut. Photo by Lani Teshima.

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In addition to the plastic wristbands you collect as you finish each Dopey Challenge segment, you also get a special Runner's World Challenge wristband, which gives you access to the Race Retreat tent over the weekend. Photo by Lani Teshima.

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The Race Retreat tent, in addition to offering many food options as well as plenty of seating, also includes special character meet-and-greet opportunities. The author shows off her medal while standing with the characters from Monsters, Inc. Photo by Dis