Guest Dies After Completing runDisney Half Marathon at Disneyland Resort

According to the Orange County Register, a guest passed away shortly after completing the runDisney Half Marathon, part of the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend.

Bobby Graves, widely known by his online moniker Caleb, died at age 35 on Sunday, September 8, 2024. He reportedly began to experience health troubles right after crossing the finish line. Emergency services responded on-site and transported Graves to a local hospital, where he passed.

A person smiles at the camera while wearing a T-shirt featuring a cartoon character. The background includes carved pumpkin decorations with ears resembling those of the cartoon character, adding a magical touch reminiscent of Disneyland Resort.
Image source: Caleb Graves’ Instagram account (@calebgtravels)

Graves was an experienced runner who had participated in runDisney events in the past. In a TikTok posted the day before the race, he expressed concern about the heat, citing an experience from that day where he “passed out” from suspected heat exhaustion. On the day of the race, the Anaheim area was experiencing a heat wave, with temperatures reaching a high of 108℉.

“We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss and our hearts are with Caleb’s family and loved ones during this difficult time,” Disneyland Resort spokesperson Jessica Good told the Los Angeles Times.

The Halloween Half Marathon cost guests $260+ per participant in non-refundable entry fees. The official weather policy states “All runDisney races will be held rain or shine, except in the case of lightning or other circumstances if the runDisney Event Management staff determines in its sole discretion that cancellation or postponement is necessary.”

Graves’ death has been preliminarily attributed to cardiac arrest.

A study first published in Sports Health in 2010 focused on the risk of sudden cardiac death (SDC) in marathon runners. The study’s conclusion was, “As with other forms of vigorous exercise, marathon running is associated with a transient increase in, but exceedingly low risk of, SCD.”

We at WDWNT send our thoughts and condolences to Graves’ family.

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