|
Presented
by Saturn
 |
|
Pace
Leader Bios
(in Adobe Reader format)
Frequently
Asked Questions about the Madison Marathon Pace Team
We will again be offering pace groups led by experienced pacers for a wide variety of times including many of the Boston qualifying standards. We hope you will find this support useful as you strive to achieve your marathon goals.
A pace team is a group of runners led by an experienced leader who run together in the marathon. The pace leader runs a steady pace and keeps track of that pace so that the group can achieve their goal of finishing the marathon at a particular time. There are wonderful benefits of running with a pace group. You’ll be supported by a cheerful leader and will be side by side with other runners sharing the same goal as you.
The Madison Marathon 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.
Who are the Pace Leaders?
All of our Pacers have many years of running experience competing in several marathons throughout the country. They were chosen for their skills which include actual marathon experience, great leadership, ability to motivate, encourage, and MOST IMPORTANTLY, a lot of marathon pacing experience. They are very experienced marathon pace leaders who will be there for you every step of the way.
What Pace Groups are offered?
We will have marathon groups for 3:20 ( 7:38 min/mi), 3:30 , 3:40 , 3:50 , 4:00 , 4:15 , 4:30 , and 5:00 ( 11:27 min/mi).
What pace group should I be in?
The best way to select the proper pace group is to consult the predictive calculator at 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.
Can Half Marathoners run with a Pace Group?
Absolutely! The Half Marathon has Pace Groups for 1:40 (7:38 min/mi), 1:50, 2:00, 2:10, 2:20, and 2:30 (11:27 min/mi).. Half marathoners should stop by our booth at the Expo and meet your pace leader. On race morning just fall in with the group.
What does it cost to run with the Pace Team?
It’s part of the great support at the Madison Marathon and doesn’t cost you anything!
What if this is my first race and I’m not sure if I should run with the Pace Team?
The Pacers are very “beginner-friendly” and will give you the tips and guidance you need to have your most successful performance in your first endurance running event.
How will the Pacers be running the race?
Every Pace Leader will be holding a steady pace throughout the marathon. They may slow down a bit going up a hill and speed up a bit going down a hill, but overall they’ll be very even. 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 for identification. 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 uniforms. Now is the time to ask any last minute questions you may have.
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 Marathon medal.” After you’re home, sit down and email your race story to PacerJim@hotmail.com. Begin planning for your next marathon. Wear your medal to bed.
Copyright 2007 by James L. Crist. No part of this may be reproduced without permission.
|
. 
