Pace team in place to help marathoners reach goals Published Aug. 5, 2009 WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFNS) -- The Air Force Marathon pace team will be on-hand to help both first time and experienced marathoners looking to reach their running goals for the Sept. 19 race here. The pace team is a group of experienced marathoners that will lead runners through the entire 26.2 miles of the course at even, designated paces during the 2009 U.S. Air Force Marathon. There are several marathon pace times to choose from, ranging between 3 hours and 10 minutes to 5 hours. There are also pace times for the half marathon. Pace teams can be beneficial for both beginners and experienced runners, said Jim Crist, the pace team director. "Running with a pacer is undoubtedly the most effective support that any runner could have." 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. Mr. Crist has been working with the 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," Mr. Crist said. The Air Force Marathon running events will be held over two days. The marathon, half-marathon, and 10K will be held at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force adjacent to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. The 5K will be co-hosted with Wright State University Sept. 18 on its main campus. To find out more about the Air Force Marathon, including volunteer or registration information, please visit www.usafmarathon.com.