The Chevron Houston Marathon Pace Team

What is the Pace Team?

The Pace Team is a group of runners who run together during the Chevron Houston Marathon. They share the same finish time goal (from 3 hrs to 6 hrs) and help each other stay on pace so runners can achieve their goal.

Who leads the Pace Team?

The Pace Team is led by experienced marathon runners, both men and women. They provide runners with a fun opportunity to tackle a time goal with runners experienced in achieving that exact pace.

To meet the 2024 Pace Team, click here!

What paces will the Pace Team be running?

Finish Time (hours) Pace Per Mile (min.)
3:00 6:55
3:05 7:04
3:10 7:15
3:20 7:38
3:25 7:49
3:30 8:01
3:35 8:12
3:40 8:24
3:50 8:47
3:55 8:58
4:00 9:10
4:05 9:21
4:10 9:33
4:20 9:55
4:35 10:30
4:45 10:53
4:50 11:04
5:05 11:38
5:20 12:13
5:30 12:36
5:56 13:44

 

How can I run with a Pace Team during my race?

Just drop by the Pace Team booth at the Houston Marathon Health & Fitness EXPO presented by Houston Methodist to get information. (Note: Registration is not mandatory to participate. If you cannot make it to the booth, you are still welcome to join a pace team on race day.) 

Are there any half marathon pacers on the Pace Team?

We do not have a pace team for the half marathon. The marathon and half marathon starting corrals are combined and based on pace. Both races share the same course for the first 8 miles. Half marathon participants are welcome to line up in the starting corral with their desired pace group and may follow their pacer until the marathon participants turn off onto the separate marathon course.

How do I meet up with my Pace Team on race morning?

All pacers will be nearby wearing distinctive clothing and will be carrying signs designating their paces. Plan on arriving approximately 45 minutes before start time to find your team and get organized. All pace team leaders will wear a respective “Pace Goal” sign identifying the goal time for their team.

Are we going to go out right on pace?

More or less. Some pacers go out a little slower the first half of the race and try to do “negative splits.” Others go out just a little faster to build some “cushion” just in case people have to slow down at the end. Either way, the idea is to run EVEN. That’s what pacing is all about.

Will we stop at water stations?

This depends on the pace leader. Most pace leaders will at least slow down at the water stations to make sure everyone gets properly hydrated. Some will stop and walk briefly. Your pace leader will let you know the plan ahead of time and the team strategy will be reviewed before the start of the race.

Will there be walking breaks?

Again, this depends on the pace leader. We will be encouraging walking as an important part of the marathon pace team. Most pacers will take walking breaks. Some will stop and walk briefly at the water stations, for example.