Pacers
Pacing the ultrarunner
Pacers are crew members who actively accompany the runner along the course, running and walking a few miles with them at the runner's discretion. Whether or not to have a pacer is strictly the runner's choice. Not all races allow pacing, but KEYS100® does, subject to the limitations shown below. Note that pacers are allowed for individual runners only, not teams. See note below about "Team pacing".
When pacers are allowed.
100-mile race: pacers are allowed AFTER the first 10 miles--i.e., beginning at Coral Shores High School on Plantation Key.
50-mile race: pacers are allowed AFTER Seven Mile Bridge.
50-kilometer race: pacers are allowed beginning on Ramrod Key at the Looe Key tiki bar or Shell station at approximately MM27.0.
Pacer do's and don'ts
The pacer may run behind or next to the runner (when space permits), but never in front leading the way.
No "muling" allowed: the runner must carry their own gear and supplies--bottles, food, etc.
Tip: At a point in the race when you begin pacing, does your runner prefer conversation? Jokes and stories? Quiet? Ask!
Runners in the individual events are limited to one pacer at any time except for the last 100 yards or so before the finish line when all crew members are invited and encouraged to run across the finish line with their runner.
Pacers are highly encouraged to limit their running to a few miles at a time. Remember that the support crew is there to focus on achieving the runner's goal, and to that end must take care of themselves during the race so that they don't become the person needing care. No heroes are needed! Do not let the heat or lack of proper hydration, nutrition, electrolyte balance, or rest take you out of the game and cause disruption to your runner's plan.
Remember nighttime rules:
Pacers on the course with their runners at night, starting at 7:30 pm on Saturday, must wear required night gear. Don't get caught without it, especially on Seven Mile Bridge. Crew members breaking rules will result in runner time penalties.
Team "pacing":
Teams are never allowed to have a non-team member function as a team pacer. However, during nighttime hours, one registered team member is permitted to pace the active team runner, if desired. ("Nighttime" is defined as the hours during which night gear must be worn--i.e., 7:30 pm until 6:00am.)