USAF Marathon/Half Marathon Pace Team
Welcome to the United States Air Force Marathon Pace Team web page. As a benefit to the marathon runners we will be offering pace teams led by experienced pacers for a wide variety of times including many of the Boston qualifying standards up to 5:00. We hope you will find this support useful as you strive to achieve your marathon goals.
You've been training for months for this marathon and on race day you'll have an experienced leader to get you through the race. The Pace Team is designed for an athlete just like you. Whether this is your first marathon or you've done several, the benefits of running with a Pace Team will help you have a more successful marathon experience. Right from the starting line through the race and up to the finish you'll have someone who's focus is on you, making sure that you're not going out too fast or running sporadically. If the pace feels too slow in the beginning of the race that is normal. Just stay with the group and ask the pace leader about an appropriate strategy for the second half. If the pace is too fast, slow down. If you become ill or injured stop off at the medical station. The marathon is a challenging event and anyone can have a bad day. If you manage your day smartly then you'll survive to run another marathon.
While the pace leaders will maintain an exact per-mile average pace, the first 1 or 2 miles may be a bit slower until the field thins a bit. Don't worry - these experienced marathoners will do their job to keep you on pace!
Frequently Asked Questions About The Pace Team
The Pace Team promises to provide fun and excitement for both first time, and experienced marathoners looking to reach their running goals - whether that's a personal best, or just getting across the finish line. Below are the answers to a few common questions about the Pace Team.
Where do the Pacers come from?
All of our Pacers were chosen because of their years of competing in several marathons throughout the country. Our Pacers are dynamic and personable, and know from past experience exactly what it takes to help you have a great marathon experience.
If you're interested in leading a pace group please email the Pace Team Director at PacerJim@hotmail.com
What pace times will there be?
Pace Leaders will be leading these times: 3:10, 3:20, 3:30, 3:40, 3:50, 4:00, 4:10, 4:20, 4:30, 4:45 and 5:00.
What pace group should I be in?
The best way to select the proper pace group is to consult the Race Prediction charts at www.MarathonGuide.com . There you can base your desired finish time on a previous shorter race you've completed this season. It's very important not to start out to fast in the marathon and to select the proper pace based on your actual previous performance.
Are there Pace Groups for the Half Marathon?
Yes! The Air Force Half Marathon has a Pace Team offering experienced leaders for 1:40, 1:50, 2:00, 2:10, 2:20, and 2:30. Half-marathoners are welcome to stop by the Pace Team booth at the Expo to discuss your race strategy.
What does it cost to run with the Pace Team?
The Pace Team is sponsored by the USAF Marathon and doesn't cost you anything!
How will the Pacers be running the race?
Every pace leader will be holding a steady pace throughout the marathon. These "even splits" are the best way to achieve your peak performance in the race.
Will the Pacers start out on pace exactly? How do they do that!?
The Pace Leaders are very experienced and know their pace well. Sometimes at the start it's crowded and may take a couple of miles to settle into a steady pace. Most importantly, they won't take you out too fast and burn up all your energy early on.
Where will my Pace Leader be on race morning?
About 30 minutes before the start we'll be assembling in the starting area. Each Pacer will be holding up their pace sign so when you see it go and join up with the group. About 15 minutes before the start the Pacer will give you some last minute instructions about running with the group. They will talk about the course, what to do if you need a break, and how to make it through the water stops. We will be wearing our Pace Team singlets. Now is the time to ask any last minute questions you may have.
What will the Pace Leader do at the water stations?
The Pacer will usually slow down or walk through the water stops. Listen for this information during the last minute instructions.
Will there be Pace Leaders for me if I've trained using the Galloway method?
You can use the Pace Leader as a guide even if you're using the run-walk method. You will be meeting up with the Pace Leader regularly throughout the marathon, running ahead and then walking behind.
If I join a Pace group do I have to stay with them for the whole marathon?
No you don't. However, if you feel great at the start of the race that's normal and you should stay with the group through the halfway point. Then you can consult with the group leader on an appropriate strategy for the second half of the race. If you're not having a great day then slow down, take some walking breaks and work your way to the finish line. If you're trying to hit a PR the best advice we can give you is to stick next to your pace leader for the whole race.
Will each group have the same Pace Leader for the entire marathon?
Yes. Each pace group will have one leader and they will run the entire 26.2 miles. You won't be abandoned or handed off to a newcomer in the middle of the race. We'll stick with you from start to finish.
What should I do after the race?
Stay on your feet, walk around for 15-30 minutes, and eat and drink to replenish your exhausted body. When stopped at the airport metal detector exclaim, "Oh that must be my USAF Marathon medal." After you're home, sit down and email your race story to me at PacerJim@hotmail.com. Begin planning for your next marathon. Wear your medal to bed.
Suppose I have some questions that weren't answered here?
You can email the Pace Team Director at PacerJim@hotmail.com.
Copyright 2007 by James L. Crist. No part of this may be reproduced without permission.