NuGo Pace Team

Pittsburgh Marathon NuGo Pace Team

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. We hope you will find this support useful as you strive to achieve your marathon goals.

The pace team is designed to provide you with a means for keeping track of your progress throughout the race. Using the NuGo pace team as your guide and coach, you will be able to relax and enjoy the race, knowing that experienced marathoners are looking out for you and moving you through the course at a steady pace. If the pace feels too slow in the beginning of the race that’s 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 NuGo 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. Here are answers to a few common questions about the pace team.

Where do the Pacers come from?

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 groups for goal times 3:20 (7:38/mile), 3:30, 3:40, 3:50, 4:00, 4:10, 4:20, 4:30, 4:45, 5:00, 5:30 and 6:00 (13:44/mile). Additional times may be offered so check with us at the Expo.

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 too fast in the marathon and to select the proper pace based on your actual previous performance.

What does it cost to run with the NuGo Pace Team?

The NuGo Pace Team is sponsored by Nugo Nutrition, so it doesn’t cost you a thing!

Can Half Marathoners run with the NuGo Pace Team?

Absolutely! Both the full and half marathon start at the same time. Half marathoners should stop by our booth at the expo and meet your pace leader. On race morning just fall in with the group.

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 guys and gals serving as pace leaders are 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.

Who are the Pace Leaders?

Read the bios of each of the pacers HERE.

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 bright pace team uniforms. That 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 pre-race talk.

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, 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 body. When stopped at the airport metal detector on your trip home, exclaim, “Oh, that must be my marathon medal!” After you’re home, email your race story to me at PacerJim@hotmail.com. Begin planning for your next marathon. Wear your medal to bed.

Suppose I have a question that you didn’t think to post here?

Just email the pace team director at PacerJim@hotmail.com.