Des Moines Marathon Needs Pacers

This just in from Des Moines - they're looking for pacers. Details below in their press release.
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Pacers Needed for the Marathon and Half

The IMT Des Moines Marathon needs experienced distance runners that want to give back to the sport by serving as Van Meter Industrial, Inc. Pace Team Leaders for the Marathon and Half on October 21, 2007.

Marathon pace team goals will be spaced every 10 minutes from 3:00 to 4:00 hours and every 15 minutes from 4:00 to 5:30 hours. Half-marathon pace team goals will be every 10 minutes from 1:30 to 2:30 hours. Many of the 2006 pace team leaders are back for 2007, but as always there are several positions to fill for each event. Tara Thomas is returning for her fourth year as Pace Team Director for the IMT Des Moines Marathon.

Qualifications:

* Have run two or more marathons at 15 to 30 minutes better than the time that you plan to pace,
* or, have run two or more half-marathons at 5 to 10 minutes better than the plan you plan to pace.
* Able to maintain a steady pace with respect to the terrain for the entire distance.
* Willing to act as a "moving coach" by creating a team atmosphere and offering encouragement and advice throughout the race.

Responsibilities:

* Commit to maintain your pace and finish with a chip time between your goal time and 2 minutes ahead of your goal time (1 minute for the Half).
* Carry a lightweight sign displaying your goal time during the entire race.
* Wear a bright yellow (marathon) or red (half-marathon) singlet that has a bib displaying your goal time on the back.
* Take a two hour shift at the Pace Team booth at the Wellmark Blue Cross & Blue Shield Sports and Fitness Expo on Friday or Saturday of race weekend,
* Prepare a handout to be given to interested runners who stop by the booth at the Expo (marathon pacers only). Examples from previous pace leaders will be provided to help you prepare your handout.

Rewards:

* Waived race entry fee to the 2007 IMT Des Moines Marathon.
* Pace Team singlet bearing the IMT Des Moines Marathon and Van Meter Industrial, Inc. logos.
* Complimentary pasta party admission.
* Special gift chosen especially for the Pace Team Leaders.
* Prizes for the two marathon (and one half-marathon) pacer that finish closest to their goal time without going over. More information to follow!
* Lots of fun, memories, and a great way to make a new friend or two.

If you are interested in serving as a Pace Team Leader, please contact Tara Thomas at davetara1118@msn.com or 515-251-3756. You may also visit the IMT Des Moines Marathon website at www.desmoinemarathon.com.