Pacers For 21K QCIM3 Still Needed

The publicity and support group of the SMDC-Quezon City International Marathon3 (QCIM) are looking for additional volunteers to pace runners for the 21k distance this coming December 4, 2011. Only 21k pacers are needed as the 42k pacer slots have all been filled up.

The pacers will lead pace groups for the following finish times of 1:45, 2:00, 2:15, 2:30, 2:45 and 3:00 hours. Each time slot will have 2 or more pacers allocated. The “LEAD” pacer/s at the front of the pack and the “SWEEPER” pacer/s at the rear. The Lead Pacers will be setting the pace and the Sweeper Pacer will be on hand to offer support and encouragement to any runner who may be dropping off the pace.

The objective here is to be able to comfortably run the pace you have volunteered for and to be prepared to offer encouragement and motivate runners in your pack. Pacers shall be equipped with clearly identifiable time markers in a flag or baloon.

In exchange, all pacers will be entitled to the following:

1. A complimentary race packet will all race freebies included (T-shirt, race bib, timing chip, loot bags, etc.)

2. Pacers eligible for the Raffle draws (condo unit and other valuable prizes)

3. Special mention of his/her running club

4. Names of pacers and their time goal groups will be posted at the QCIM website

5. Acknowledge them before the race starts

All interested parties may contact me by e-mail and submit their credentials (no. of marathons, half-marathons ran, best times, etc.) at: runnerjazz@yahoo.com

Here is the full mechanics:

THE 3rd SMDC- QUEZON CITY INTERNATIONAL MARATHON

Mechanics and information for pacers:

Objectives:

· Lead runners across the finish line, at the same time achieving their target time goals;

· Lead the group. Pay attention to the overall group goal, not personal/individual goals;

· Look out for the welfare of all;

· Have FUN leading them across the finish line so they remember the QCIM as one great experience.

Important points for the Pacers:

• Pacing duty is a big responsibility. So pacers must be fit and strong to run and pace a group, should have ran the 42K and 21k many times before, and must have a wealth of running experience to lead and pace a group effectively. Running a marathon or half-marathon is hard enough as it is; to run it at a different pace is even harder. And the challenge of pacing is to maintain consistency.
• A pacer is a leader, coach, cheerleader, psychiatrist, etc. A good sense of humor will greatly help.
• Ideal set up: pacer and a back up pacer in the same group.

Each time slot should have at least two (2) pacers allocated. The “Lead” pacer/s at the front of the pack and the “Sweeper” pacer/s at the rear. The Lead Pacer will be setting the pace and the Sweeper Pacer will be on hand to offer encouragement to any runners who may be dropping off the pace.

• Participation in a pace group is free to all participants who will run the full 42 and 21k distance. .

• The Pace Groups are: 1:45, 2:00, 2:15, 2:30, 2:45 and 3:00 .

• Pacers should maintain an “even split,” which means that every kilometer will be run at approximately the same pace. A pace guide shall be provided to all pacers, and even the runners. Pacers must maintain their designated pace.
• Pacers should meet with their group before the actual race so that an assessment of the group’s individual and collective capabilities and personalities can be done as soon as possible. That way the race day strategy can be drawn up. Pacers are encouraged to communicate their strategy as soon as possible and as clearly as possible.
• Hydration and water station strategy must also be drawn up. Walking breaks can be encouraged right after the water stops especially for the slower groups (2:30 and up). However the runners must be told that after a walking break, the pace will have to pick up a bit in order to compensate for the walk and so that the time goal can be met. Also pacers should communicate regrouping instructions.
• The names of the pacers and their time goal groups shall be posted in the QCIM website after confirmation with the pacers.
• Other/additional/final instructions shall be issued before the race start.
• Pacers shall be equipped with clearly identifiable time markers in a flag or balloons.
• Pacers shall take up corral starting positions arranged with the faster groups in front in front with the slower groups taking up the rear positions.
• About ten minutes before the start of the race final instructions shall be issued. This will include any adjustments being made to the pace due to course conditions. This shall also include back up and contingency measures. This is another great opportunity for the pacers to encourage questions from the runners they shall be leading.
• Try to spot as early as possible those who have a difficult time keeping pace. Encourage them to fall back to the next group if they can’t really keep pace, or walk. Please do not risk the safety, health, or condition of the runner.