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The QC Marathon Pace Teams are brought to you by QC Safety. Our goal is to provide you with support and motivation from the starting line to the finish. The pace team leaders are comprised of veteran marathon runners who bring a broad range of racing experiences to assist you in achieving your desired finish time.

The goal of the pacer is to run even splits or about the same pace each mile. You can ask your pacer about their race plan. You are encouraged to run/walk your own race strategy and use the pace team leader as a guide and resource on the course. However, many competitors find it helpful to stay in a pack, which tends to create a motivating bond on the course and forward momentum. You don't have to remain with the pace team the entire race. You can always slow down or speed up to the next pace group depending on the type of day you are having. Be realistic with the time you set for yourself.

Pace groups will be offered for the following finish times in the marathon:  3:05, 3:10, 3:15, 3:25, 3:30, 3:35, 3:40, 3:45, 3:50, 3:55, 4:00, 4:10, 4:25, 4:40, 4:55, 5:10, 5:25.

We also have "Half only" pacers. These times are 1:30, 1:40, 1:45, 1:50, 2:00, 2:10, 2:20, 2:30

There is no fee to join the pace teams and you don't need to formally sign up. You can come by the pace team booth at the expo to get a pace band (a band you can wear on your wrist with even splits listed for your time goal). Pace team race numbers will also be available for you to wear on your back, which help the pace team leaders identify you on the course.

Finding the pace teams on race day:

You can find your pacer at the start line about 15 minutes prior to the race. Pacers will be holding a sign indicating their goal finish time. The teams will be lined up on the left side of the road (your left if standing in the pack and looking at the start line). Many of the pace teams have more than one pacer or have a relay team pacing. Your leader will inform you if they are exchanging with a co-pace leader at the half way mark of the marathon.

We hope you enjoy your race and reach your goals!

Please email Dave at if you have further questions about the pace teams or about picking a time goal for race day.