OARacle Newsletter

This January, nearly 100 RUN FOR AUTISM team members will take on a race at the 2026 Walt Disney World ® Marathon Weekend presented by State Farm in Orlando, Florida. This marathon weekend is the 2026 RUN FOR AUTISM featured event, with staff presence to cheer on our amazing team of runners.

The weekend features four races, ranging from a 5K to a marathon, as well as two challenges that incorporate multiple races. Runners taking on Goofy’s Race and a half challenge presented by State Farm will run the Walt Disney World® half marathon and Walt Disney World® marathon on back-to-back days, while runners endeavoring to complete the Dopey Challenge presented by State Farm will take on all four Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend races on consecutive days.

Ashlee Visel is one of the runners racing the Dopey Challenge. “I am running for my little cousin Jaxon and for all the incredible friends, families, and loved ones whose lives are touched by autism. I chose to run Disney because it’s not just the ‘happiest place on earth,’ it’s my personal happy place. It’s where I’m able to breathe, reset, and step away from the chaos of everyday life. Running helps me focus and disconnect, and running at Disney brings me a sense of joy and peace that keeps me going.” 

Ali Clarkson is running the two Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend presented by State Farm events this year. “I am excited to run my second marathon this January with my cousin, and [to] walk the 10K with my mother and sister-in-law. We have all been affected by autism as both my children are on the spectrum. My daughter Joey is 7 (diagnosed at 4), and my son Teddy is 5 (diagnosed at 2). We are early in this journey but already are faced with many challenges. I was so happy to learn of organizations like OAR that can help families through difficult times and transitions in life. I know I will be utilizing many resources in the future and am proud to do my part to help.”

RUN FOR AUTISM staff will be cheering for Visel, Clarkson, and all the other RUN FOR AUTISM team members at the 2026 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend. Learn more about the team.