I paced the 4:15 group today at the Mankato Marathon for the MN PACRS. I had a huge group to run with for this race! It was unbelievable! I started out with about 50 runners through the first 18 miles or so. At that point, I normally expect some of the runnners to drop off the pace. This is what tends to happen with pace groups. I had 30 or so still with at 20 miles and 20 still with me at 25 miles. This is unheard of in pacing. Most pacers finish alone or with just a couple of other runners. It was great to run with this group from start to finish and listen to their stories. Some were experienced runners, looking for a PR. Others were new runners, simply looking to finish. Got to meet Frank Shorter today!
I have to say I am very glad they have allowed me to join their group this year. I am honored to be able to help others achieve their time goals in races ranging from the half-marathon to full marathon. I was spot on again today, running 4:14:50. My personal goal is to finish about 10 seconds under race pace. We are not supposed to be even 1 second over our time. I am proud to say I was within about 10 seconds in all the races I paced this year.
Races I have paced this year include:
Med City Marathon 5 hour group
Red Wing 1/2 Marathon 2:05 group
Woodbury Country Mile 1/2 Marathon 2:05 group
Get Ready To Rock 20 Miler 3:10 group
Mankato Marathon 4:15 group
