Pace Groups Etiquette, Demystified
Ever wonder how pace teams form, and what the etiquette is for running with them? Here are answers to the top 5 most frequent questions we hear regarding pace groups on race day.
1. Who can join a pace team?
Pacing Teams are for everyone, not just the elites. The San Francisco Marathon offers a variety of pace groups at most speed levels for the First Half and Second Half Marathons, and the Full Marathon distance.
Speeds range from 6:29 minute/mile to 13:09 minute/mile. Pacers help participants run consistently throughout the race, with the goal of finishing the half or full marathon at a desired time goal.
2. Do I have to sign up?
There is no sign up and pace groups are free to join. Locate your appropriate pacer at the start of the race and stand next to/nearby that person. Pacers will be spaced out in the starting corrals according to speed. In addition to wearing a bright colored shirt which identifies them as a pacer, they will also carry a sign on top of a stick dictating their expected finish time the whole time.
3. Which pacing group should I join?
Pacing groups are organized by expected finish time and average minute per mile pace. You can calculate your expected finish time by identifying what pace you’re most comfortable running during your long runs and/or your finishing time goal.
4. Do I have to stay with the group?
You can run with a pace group for as long, or as little, as you like. There is no judgement!
5. Will the pacer stop at water stations or bathrooms?
Every pacer approaches their assignment differently. Some pacers plan on walking through water stations while others run through them. Feel free to ask your pacer what their strategy is for the race, as knowing what to expect will alleviate any anxiety you have about the run ahead of you.
Your San Francisco Marathon pacers look forward to meeting you! Will you join in July?
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