Running is Universal: Universal Orlando launches new Epic Character Race

Lace up your sneakers and prepare to run! Universal Orlando is hosting its first-ever Epic Character Race, and you’d better be ready to race, Universal!

The first ever Epic Character Race is coming to Universal Orlando. While Universal Studios Hollywood has hosted character-themed races, the Orlando theme park is new to the racing event. Are you ready to run?

The announcement stated that the 5K and 10K events will be held on February 1 and 2, 2020. While full details were not released, Universal Orlando stated that the race would be filled with the “most iconic characters in pop culture.” Also, runners would get an “Instagram-worthy medal, photo ops, and exclusive swag.”

Thinking about the two Orlando theme parks, the race courses should be quite entertaining in addition to slightly challenging. While these type of races are more about the “experience” than the finish time, people might be running to the next photo op versus sprinting to the finish line.

No matter the course location, the Universal characters will make this running event special. The distances are approachable for the occasional runner, as well as the weekend warrior. More importantly, given the advanced notice, everyone should have plenty of time to prepare.

Still, these types of races are about being active with friends and getting that unique photo moment with some of your favorite characters. Whether it is Bart Simpson or the Grinch, the race photo op is just as important as the finish time.

For example, running though Islands of Adventure would give runners an opportunity to run past all types of experiences. From possibly having a dinosaur clipping your heels to She-Ra helping you channel a powerful finish, the journey of an amazing adventure is likely.

If the race travels through Universal Studios, the various neighborhoods will make it feel like traveling across the country. From the streets of New York to the glamour of Hollywood, each area should have a different experience. Plus, the Minions might have some bananas waiting for you as you cross the finish line.

Even though these theme park sponsored running events are generally more expensive than most local race events, fans are always ready to participate. If other theme park races are an indication, this inaugural Epic Character Race will sell out quickly.

It will be interesting to see what type of packages Universal Orlando might offer with this race event. A post-race party, hotel specials or even a race-only character dinner could make this first event even more epic. Given fans loyalty to the Universal theme park and the characters, it seems likely that people will jump at the chance to participate in everything.

If you want to be the first to know about the running Universal event, you can sign up for updates on the Universal Orlando website. More details, including costs and registration dates, should be coming soon.

Are you ready to run Universal? The Universal Orlando Epic Character Race is coming, and you’d better to ready to race.