Skip packet pick-up at next runDisney expo — for a price

runDisney quietly has introduced a new service for its next race weekend, which takes place next week at Walt Disney World. At the inaugural Star Wars Half Marathon — The Dark Side weekend, runners can choose to skip packet pick-up at the runDisney Health and Fitness Expo and collect their bibs, race shirts and pre-purchased merchandise at the courses on race days.

As you might — and should — have guessed, the new VIP Race Day Packet Pick-up is not free. It’s another upcharge offering in the steady stream of Walt Disney World experiences that are being sold for additional costs. The price is $39 per race packet, and the service is available for the 10K, Half Marathon and Dark Side Challenge. (Those running the 5K cannot purchase this service.)

If you want to purchase the VIP Race Day Packet Pickup, you must do so by 8 p.m. EST April 11. Star Wars Half Marathon — The Dark Side weekend runs April 14-17. The VIP Race Day Packet Pickup service is a separate transaction from race registration. You can find the option by clicking the link under “Runner Info” and “Packet Pick-Up” on the official runDisney website. There are a limited number of VIP packet pick-up packages for sale, and no refunds will be issued once the packages are purchased. You must upload your completed waiver during the checkout process.

Here’s how it works:

** The VIP Race Day Packet Pick-up will be open from 3:30 to 5 a.m. April 16 and 17.

** You must have a valid ID in order to pick up your packet (driver’s license, passport, Military ID, Government issued ID.) You are the only person who can pick up your packet.

** Because you are collecting your shirt and commemorative items, as well as you bib, before the race, you will need to either check the items in your gEAR bag (also provided that morning) or find other options, such as handing them off to a chEARing friend or stashing the items in your car if you drove.

** No shirt exchange will be available at the VIP tent.

Some runDisney participants noticed that the website originally also had language that offered packet pick-up and delivery to Disney hotels for the same price of $39 per adult runner. Packet pickup for each additional minor staying in the same room would be $15. However, this option has since been removed from the website.

So, is the VIP Race Day Packet Pick-up worth the price? It’s certainly a matter of perspective. Some commenters in online forums pointed out that the $39 would be well worth it to them because they would not have to arrive at Walt Disney World as early, allowing them to avoid taking an extra day off work. Some said the $39 was a small price to pay to have more time in the theme parks. Other runners, especially those with families, said the total cost would be too steep and they would make time to go to the expo at ESPN Wide World of Sports.

What do you think about the new VIP Race Day Packet Pick-up packages? Tell us in the comments.

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