YOU NEED TO BE MORE THAN JUST COMFORTABLE WITH YOUR GIVEN TIME
Obviously, you need to be able to hit the pace that you’re setting. But you also need to be able to do it a few minutes quicker, just to give you that leeway to chat or motivate people who need it. You want to look happy while doing it! You also don’t want to be sprinting to the finish line with a big flag banging behind you – not a good idea!
THERE ARE SPREADSHEETS INVOLVED
Yep, we’ve got a spreadsheet for the Sheffield Half with the different paces for every single mile or kilometre, taking into account all the bumps and inclines on the route. During the race, most of us will be wearing a band on our wrist which lists the pace for each mile – though I do know someone who just writes it on their arms using a Sharpie!
THE FLAG CAN BE AN ISSUE
Having a long flag sticking out of your back can be problematic. You have to be careful when bending down to tie your shoelaces, for example, as you could easily take someone’s eye out. Chafing is another issue, as the uneven weight from the flag can cause the backpack to bounce around a fair bit, so it’s important to make sure the chest strap is nice and tight!
PEOPLE CONSTANTLY FOLLOW YOU ABOUT … EVEN BEFORE THE RACE
This is something most pacers will have experienced. I’ve nipped to the toilet before the race has started and found 10 or 20 people following me to the loo, or the same thing has happened if I pop into a café pre-race to grab a drink. That takes a bit of getting used to!
GET READY FOR SOME SWEATY HANDSHAKES AND HUGS AFTERWARDS
You go on a real journey with people, chatting throughout the race and picking the right times to motivate them. People are always keen to thank us afterwards, and, although we don’t do it for the thanks, we really appreciate it and it’s very enjoyable seeing people hit PBs and achieve their goals.
Matt Rimmer is a running coach and general manager at myRaceKit North, an independent specialist running shop on Sharrow Vale Road. He will be pacesetting at the Run For All Sheffield Half Marathon on 26th March 2023, which you can still sign up for at runforall.com.
