Memphis couple finish Disney World Marathon 20 years after meeting as teens at Disney
The Walt Disney World Marathon has always been an event of courage, bravery, resilience and mettle. For Memphis couple Caroline and Troy Parkas, the Sunday event marked romance.
Their journey began two decades ago, not on a dating app, but at Disney’s Pop Century Resort during separate family vacations. A chance encounter sparked a connection, though life initially took them on different paths.
Years later, they reconnected through social media, rekindling their romance. Now married with two children, Disney has remained a constant in their lives – from family vacations to their son’s first steps in front of Cinderella Castle. This marathon, their first, they ran hand-in-hand, symbolizing their enduring love and their ability to conquer challenges together.
Caroline, a stay-at-home mom, and Troy, a who works in city economic development, ran side by side, holding hands at times as they navigated the scenic course that wound through Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Magic Kingdom Park and EPCOT. They crossed the finish line at EPCOT with a time of 6:21:28.
For Caroline and Troy, the weekend was more than just a physical challenge; it was a celebration of their love story and a testament to the strength they share as a team.
The race, part of the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, welcomed thousands of runners from across the nation and around the globe. The event featured character sightings, live entertainment, cool medals and an atmosphere that is uniquely Disney for participants of all ages and skill levels. In addition to Sunday’s marathon, the weekend included a 5K, a 10K, a half marathon, and a health and fitness expo.
