Pace Team in place to help marathoners reach their goals Published Aug. 5, 2009 By Cimmeron Taylor U.S. Air Force Marathon Office Report WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- The United States Air Force Marathon Pace Team will be on-hand during the 2009 U.S. Air Force Marathon to help both first time and experienced marathoners looking to reach their running goals. The Pace Team is a group of experienced marathoners that lead runners through the entire 26.2 miles of the course at even, designated paces. There are several pace times to choose from, ranging between 3:10 to 5:00. There are also pace times for the half marathon. Jim Crist, Pace Team Director, says pace teams can be beneficial for both beginners and experienced runners. "Running with a pacer is undoubtedly the most effective support that any runner could have," he said. Runners wishing to achieve a particular time will be able to meet up with the pace group leader at the starting line and run with that leader for the duration of the race. Crist has been working with the U.S. Air Force Marathon for the past five years and has experienced many challenging and exhilarating races. He said he enjoys helping runners meet their personal goals and giving back to the sport. "It's very fulfilling to see others run their first event or hit a goal time, or just have a successful run," said Crist. "Of course, there's always the t-shirt." The U.S. Air Force Marathon running events will be held over two days. The marathon, half-marathon, and 10K will be held September 19, 2009, at the National Museum of the United States Air Force adjacent to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. The 5K will be co-hosted with Wright State University on September 18, 2009, on their main campus. To find out more about the U.S. Air Force Marathon, including volunteer or registration information, please visit www.usafmarathon.com.