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9 best moments of the Walt Disney World Marathon

WALT DISNEY WORLD, Fla. — Many magical moments happened between the start and finish lines of the 26th annual Walt Disney World Marathon on Sunday.

Here's a look back at some of the most memorable:

1) CELEBRATORY HUG: Before even crossing the finish line, the winner of the women's race pulled Mickey Mouse in for a big hug.

Giovanna Martins continued to celebrate her victory falling to the floor to lay in the confetti released in her honor.

Watch the moment here:

2) REDEMPTION: Fredison Costa had won the Disney Marathon six times coming into Sunday's race. Last year he came in second, so he arrived to the 2019 racing for redemption.

See the moment that wish was granted as he crossed the finish line first:

WATCH: First place winner of WDW marathon

WE HAVE A WINNER! Fredison Costa won his seventh Walt Disney World Marathon this morning. Congratulations to Fredison and all of today's runners! 🏅 https://at.wftv.com/2AJFf4W

Posted by WFTV Channel 9 on Sunday, January 13, 2019

3) FIREWORKS: The race started off with a bang with fireworks shooting off from the starting line.

And they're off! The Walt Disney Marathon is underway

WATCH: And they're off! The 26th annual Walt Disney World Marathon is underway 🏃 Channel 9 has live coverage of the race across all four theme parks. READ MORE: https://at.wftv.com/2AJFf4W

Posted by WFTV Channel 9 on Sunday, January 13, 2019

4) FIRST FINISHER: Before the runners made it to the finish line, racers on wheels were the first to complete the race.

First Walt Disney World Marathon finisher

WATCH: The first wheelchair participant of the Walt Disney World Marathon has crossed the finish line with the first place runner expected to finish within the hour! Stay tuned to Channel 9 to watch live: https://at.wftv.com/2AJFf4W

Posted by WFTV Channel 9 on Sunday, January 13, 2019

5) SANTA, I KNOW THAT GUY!: Less than a month after his trip around the world delivering presents, "Santa" showed up to the Disney Marathon ready to run.

6) STARSTRUCK: WFTV anchors Jamie Holmes and Nancy Alvarez were starstruck when Disney's biggest celebrities, Mickey and Minnie Mouse, granted them an interview live on air.

7) AGAINST THE ODDS: Less than a month after finding out his leukemia had returned, Tampa resident Ron Wertley was lined up at the Disney Marathon starting line ready to race. He said he told his doctors he would start his treatment after the race.

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8) DONUT RUN: In the middle of Sunday's broadcast, anchor Nancy Alvarez presented her co-anchor Jamie Holmes with a gift. She said it commemorates their hard work watching the marathon instead of running it.

9) COSTUMES: Disney Marathon runners are known to meticulously plan out their costumes for the 26.2 mile race. Check out a few of our favorites:

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