21k Pacers for QCIM2 Still Open

The Organizing Committee of the 2nd Quezon City International Marathon is still looking for volunteers who can pace runners for the 21k category this coming December 05, 2010.

The pacers will lead pace groups for the following 21k times: 2:00, 2:15, 2:30, 2:45, and 3:00 hour finish. 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.

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

1. A complimentary race packet will all race freebies included (singlet, racing chips, loot bags, etc.)

2. Complimentary pass to the QCIM Carbo Loading Party, enjoy free food and drinks and hob knob with co-runners, take pictures with well known personalities in sports and entertainment

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

Pacers needed for these runners

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 21K many times before, and must have a wealth of running experience to lead and pace a group effectively. Running a 21k 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.

• Participation in a pace group is free to all participants who will run the full 21k distance. .
• The Pace Groups are: 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  should be announced by the pacers to all his/her runners beforehand. Pacers must maintain their designated pace.
• Pacers should meet with their group during the carbo party/general assembly meeting 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 during the carbo loading party or general assembly of Pacers meeting.
• Pacers shall be equipped with clearly identifiable time markers in a flag of varying colors.
• Pacers shall take up corral starting positions arranged with the faster groups in front with the slower groups taking up the rear positions. Final instructions will be issued during the carbo loading party.
• 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.

Runners at last year's QCIM

All interested parties may contact QCIM2 Volunteer and Support Group at e-mail : runnerjazz@yahoo.com. You will need to indicate your last three (3) 21k races and each’s finishing times including full marathon (42K) finishes, if any. These races should have been done during the last 12 months. A comittee of three (3) veteran runners from Runnex will then decide the final list of 21k Pacers.

Note: Pacers of the 42k race have all been filled-up.