Universal Orlando held the first Running Universal event as the inaugural Epic Character Race 5K and 10K was held over the weekend.
Thousands of runners took part in the race, running through the empty roads of the Universal Orlando resort, with the opportunity to meet different characters stationed throughout the course. The finish line was set-up in the backstage areas near the Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon attraction.
While we didn’t run the race, we were part of the crowd at the finish line at Saturday’s soggy 5K race; but the rain did not slow the runners down, with the first runner crossing the finish just over the 15-min mark. Guests of all ages continued on down the finish line, with the final stretch becoming that last-second push for some runners and picking up their speed as they crossed the finish.
Some guests took part in the race dressed as Universal Park characters, such as Spider-Man, the Minions, Scooby-Doo, Harry Potter, and so on. Some donned jerseys in support of their team playing in Super Bowl LIV. We even saw someone dressed up as the wacky, waving, inflatable, arm flailing, tube man.
As runners crossed the finish line, they were handed their 5K medals and box of goodies for a post-run snack. Guests were able to upgrade their run with a VIP Breakfast at Antojitos, which offered a buffet-style meal and featured eggs, bacon, potatoes, fresh fruits, and pastries.
Voodoo Doughnut got into the race weekend fun and offered a special 5K and 10K donut, which was filled with peanut butter and banana filling. Sadly, the donut was only offered this past weekend, but we hope it returns as it is one of the best donuts we’ve had from Voodoo.
No details have been released as to what and when Orlando’s next Running Universal event will take place. This time, we were spectators. Next time, we plan to be participants.
