Our Upcoming Races 

Eisenhower Marathon/Half - 04/19/2025

DoNot Stop Half - 04/19/2025

Garmin Marathon - 04/26/2025

Trolley Run - 04/27/2025

Lincoln Marathon - 05/04/2025

Running with the Cows Half - 05/10/2025

Colfax Marathon - 05/18/2025

Greater Kansas City Midwest Half Marathon - 05/18/2025

Bill Snyder Highway Half - 05/24/2025

Hospital Hill Run - 05/31/2025

Clinton Historic Half - 06/14/2025

Hometown Half Marathon - 06/14/2025

Four on the 4th - 07/04/2025

Valentine Marathon/Half - 08/02/2025

Words to run by

"Smile. It makes people wonder what you are up to!"

Meet your Pacers for
Garmin Marathon

Half Marathon Pacers: 1:30 1:35 1:40 1:45 1:50 1:55 2:00 2:05 2:10 2:15 2:20 2:25 2:30 2:35 2:40 2:45 2:50 2:55 3:00 3:10 3:20 3:30

Full Marathon Pacers: 3:10 3:20 3:30 3:40 3:50 4:00 4:10 4:20 4:30 4:45 5:00 5:15 5:30 5:45 6:00

Half Marathon SmartPace Teams

1:30 SmartPace Teams

Mike B. - 1:30 pacer

Mike started running long distance races in 2012 with a NY's Resolution to finish a half marathon. He was soon hooked, logging over 22,000 miles since then and reaching for his goals of qualifying for Boston/NYC/Chicago, running a 50 miler, and a sub-3:00 marathon (2:54). Having been helped by pacers himself, he appreciates the opportunity to return the favor by bringing his running zeal and experience to bear in helping you achieve your running goals.

Tyler B. - 1:30 pacer

Tyler got back into running in 2022 after a long hiatus. He ran his first half marathon at the Garmin Kansas City Half in October of 2022 and realized how great it was to challenge himself. Since then, he has run multiple half marathons including the 39.3 Series in the spring of 2023. He enjoys running with the Lee's Summit running group on a weekly basis. He is currently training for his first full marathon with the hopes of qualifying for Boston!

1:35 SmartPace Teams

Jessalyn S. - 1:35 pacer

Jessalyn is an ultra marathoner, 9x marathoner, 2x Boston Marathon runner, and sub 3 hour marathoner. You can usually find her pacing anywhere from a 1:35-1:50 half marathons at many of the local Kansas City area races. She loves to encourage others to push themselves and achieve their goals on race day.

Shane W. - 1:35 pacer

Ten years ago Shane wondered whether he was even capable of crossing a marathon finish line. Just one race though, and he knew he would be back for more. To date he has qualified for Boston twice, with a half marathon PR of 1:21 and a 37:22 10k, discovering along the way a passion that motivates him in all areas of life. Shane enjoys the discipline and community that come from running, and looks forward to helping others on race day make the most of their training.

1:40 SmartPace Teams

Chris C. - 1:40 pacer

Chris started running in 2012 as a way to be more active with his kids and lose weight. Since then - he has lost over 50lbs. Chris has run several marathons and countless half marathons and enjoys the friends he continues to meet along the way. The running community is a very close group, and Chris says it's fun to travel across country and run into people he's run with previously.

Cameron H. - 1:40 pacer

I started marathoning back in 1999 with no idea what I got myself into. Fast forward to today, I got a lot of "what not to do" more than "what to do" stories. For me, marathons are always a work in progress. I am slowly working on running a marathon in all 50 states, with 16 completed thus far. If work didn't get in the way, I would be done by now. My annual goal have been to do the "Run the Calendar Year" to keep me motivated and sharp in between marathons. I just love the sport of long distance running. This will be my first time pacing a group and I am very excited for this opportunity. We will be partying for 13.1 miles at the Stilly Half Marathon.

1:45 SmartPace Teams

Dalwyn H. - 1:45 pacer

Dalwyn has been an avid runner since the 8th grade. He's run numerous 5k's and 10k's. His first marathon was Chicago in 2004. He liked it so much, that he went on to run 30 more marathons all over the country. He has also run over 40 half marathons. Dalwyn loves to help others achieve their goals. Whether he's coaching his kids soccer, wrestling or track teams, or running a half or full marathon, he will have a smile and some words of encouragement for you.

Tracy K. - 1:45 pacer

Tracy is an active runner and cyclist, who has been running since high school. He is in his 5th year as a pacer and really enjoys getting to know his pace groups and providing encouragement throughout the race. Tracy is an experienced runner having finished over 40 half marathons and multiple marathons. He’ll be there as a guide during the race and will help you make the most of your day.

1:50 SmartPace Teams

Bren W. - 1:50 pacer

Bren runs for her physical and mental health, to strive to better herself every day, and to feel close to God. After beating stage 3 breast cancer, running reminds her that she is more than alive, she is grateful for every step! As a New York City and Boston marathon qualifier, multiple Ironman finisher, USAT All American, with a marathon PR of 3:14, half marathon PR of 1:35, Bren's passion for running is infectious to all around her. She is eager to help you believe the impossible is possible, help motivate you to reach your goals and enjoy the journey!

Nick W. - 1:50 pacer

Nick was always a runner, but during his first two decades on earth, he avoided races and instead ran on tennis courts and baseball diamonds. Upon moving (back to) Kansas City in 2014, he decided to complete a bucket list item and finish a half marathon. He finished faster than he ever thought possible and was hooked. Since then, he completed multiple races ranging from 5k to half marathon. He ran his best races using SmartPacing, including his most recent half marathon PR. He looks forward to helping you reach your goals whether it's your first race or your 100th!

1:55 SmartPace Teams

Chris L. - 1:55 pacer

Chris has run distances from track events to marathons. He has paced several marathons in KS, MO and NE and has paced many half-marathons as well. Up until collage all the running he did was for other sports. In collage he really began to grow attached to the sport and competed in XC and track. After collage running became a part of his daily routine. He enjoys helping others achieve their goals and creating a healthy lifestyle. He is an elementary reading specialist and coaches XC.

John M. - 1:55 pacer

John started running in 2014 as an inexpensive way of getting in shape. It quickly became his passion as he moved from 5k's to 10k's to half marathons to full marathons. John has participated in 10 half marathons and 7 full marathons. He achieved his long held goal of running the Boston Marathon in 2022. His goal in any race is to have fun and enjoy the atmosphere and surroundings. Pacers have helped him achieve PR's and a BQ in the past and he is excited for the opportunity to pay that forward.

2:00 SmartPace Teams

Mark G. - 2:00 pacer

Mark is an avid lifelong runner, pacer, and cross country coach who has been pacing for more than a decade now. Mark's current racing schedule focuses around full marathons, though he has also completed around fifty halves, and countless 5K's, 10K's, and odd-distance races. Mark loves racing and pacing equally, and gets recharged by supporting runners by helping them reach their goals as a pacer. Mark has also been guiding runners with disabilities for Achilles International, and has founded the Valentine Marathon. Visit ValentineMarathon.com to sign up. You can learn more and connect with Mark at MarkGudgel.com Mark lives in Omaha, Nebraska with his wife, Sonja, and their two children, Titus and Zooey.

Jeff M. - 2:00 pacer

Jeff ran through high school and college to cut weight for wrestling often running 30-50 miles per week. In 2009 he decided to focus on running completing his first half marathon and training for his first marathon. Jeff has completed 33 marathons, 4 50Ks and 1 100K. While striving for continuous improvement in his own running he has a passion for helping other runners achieve their goals.

2:05 SmartPace Teams

Daniel W. - 2:05 pacer

Daniel took up running in 2015 by a coworker challenge to run a half marathon. After somehow getting by for 37 years without running more than a mile, he decided the time had come. He has been addicted ever since with the completion of 10 half marathons and another 4 marathons. His 4 hour marathon goal has still eluded him, but still enjoys a destination race. He lives in Lincoln with his wife and three crazy kids.

Andrea W. - 2:05 pacer

Andrea started running to stay in shape after high school. She started meeting up to run with other mom's of young kids after her youngest was born. Those friends encouraged her to sign up for races. She did her first half marathon in 2003 and first full in 2004. Since then, she has completed numerous half marathons and 22 full marathons including Boston! She hopes to help others share in the joy of setting and achieving their running goals through pacing!

2:10 SmartPace Teams

Brent B. - 2:10 pacer

Brent has been running long distances since graduating from college in 2010. He has raced in 8 half marathons and 11 full marathons. His favorite races include the Kansas City Marathon and Hospital Hill Half Marathon. While his natural personality is on the quiet, reserved side, Brent has no problem getting loud encouraging and motivating others to get through a tough workout, he gets plenty of practice at it as the co-leader for November Project Kansas City, a free fitness organization that meets year round every Wednesday at the Liberty Memorial. Brent's fitness goals for 2019 included becoming a pacer (check it off the list!) and also running the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington D.C. in the Fall. See you on race day!!

Kimberly K. - 2:10 pacer

Kimberly started running 10 years ago, when the doctors told her to stop running. Her passion is to help and teach others the importance and education of fitness. She has run over two dozen half marathons and a half dozen full marathons. She has been pacing for multiple years, and loves meeting and encouraging people along the way! No matter if this is your first race, or 100th race, she will be there to encourage and help one set goals they never thought they could! When she is not running, she is spending time with family or traveling!

2:15 SmartPace Teams

Michael D. - 2:15 pacer

Michael discovered running on the way to recovering a healthy lifestyle several years ago. In 2017 he ran his first 1/2 marathon and fell in love with the miles. From there he went on to race or run at least a couple marathons each year and multitudes of 1/2 marathons. He is know for his joyful smile, playful banter, cheesy singing, cart wheel finishes and love for running and runners and finds great joy in encouraging and cheering others to successful completions in their races. Loud proud and ready to run!

Molly R. - 2:15 pacer

Molly started running shortly after moving to KC. She has now completed numerous half-marathons, and enjoys running on Saturday mornings with Runner's Edge. Molly uses the Smart Pace Strategy, which allows her to finish racing feeling strong and with some "kick" left! She looks forward to encouraging and helping the running community accomplish their personal goals! Molly has helped friends achieve PRs during races and has encouraged friends/family all the way to the top of numerous 14ers in Colorado! She can't wait to cross the finish line with you.

2:20 SmartPace Teams

Payton M. - 2:20 pacer

Payton has been running for over 10 years, with experience ranging from 5Ks to full marathons. Over the years, Payton has embraced every aspect of running, from personal training to pacing others in their races. As a seasoned runner, Payton knows the importance of staying consistent, maintaining a positive mindset, and supporting fellow runners to achieve their goals. As a pacer for this race, Payton plans to set a steady, encouraging rhythm and provide motivation every step of the way. Whether it’s offering helpful tips, uplifting words, or leading by example, Payton is dedicated to helping runners cross the finish line with confidence. Expect a mix of focus, fun, and unwavering support as Payton brings energy and expertise to the course.

Trenton P. - 2:20 pacer

Trenton is an active duty Army recruiter who found a passion for running about 8 years ago. Since becoming a recruiter he has ran 2 full marathons (with another in the future) and 8 Half Marathons ranging from 1:56-2:06. He typically runs 30-40 miles a week and wants to run an Ultra for his Birthday next February.

2:25 SmartPace Teams

Nicole C. - 2:25 pacer

Nicole started running at the age of 14 to cross-train while swimming competitively. She stopped swimming, but kept running recreationally through college as a way to manage stress. She completed her first half marathon in 2003, and first full marathon in 2006. Since then she has completed 9 marathons (including the Goofy and Dopey Challenges), numerous half marathons, 4 half Ironmans and a full Ironman. Nicole is a physical therapist, and is happy to chat about injury prevention for runners.

Aron M. - 2:25 pacer

Aron started running several years ago lose weight and stay healthy. Did his first half and it went from there completing over 60 half marathons, 7 marathons, and 9 Ultra marathons. The distance is what drives. Pacing is a great opportunity to return the help he got over the years from more experienced runners. Cant wait to see you out there and hep you get a PR!

2:30 SmartPace Teams

Ray C. - 2:30 pacer

Ray started running at the age of 30 to lose a few pounds and be in better health. After a year of a mile here and there he decided to sign up for his first race, a half marathon, and has been hooked ever since. He has completed several half marathons and will complete his first marathon this fall. His favorite thing about running is the camaraderie between runners and how helpful they are with each other in order to achieve their goals. He is looking forward to helping you achieve your goals, whether that be completing your first race, setting a new PR, or just enjoying a run with good company.

Edward F. - 2:30 pacer

Edward started running several years ago and has loved it ever since. He lost over 40 pounds and considers it a great blessing and honor to be able to run distance. Edward has completed 10 marathons, as well as many half marathons. He knows how important good pacing is to allow you to run your best race and wants to help you do just that. He is a software engineer by trade and can be found on the trails of SM Park when not behind a computer. He is looking forward to meeting you and crossing the finish line together!

2:35 SmartPace Teams

Shekita R. - 2:35 pacer

Shekita started running in 2013 after a friend invited her to run in a local "Diva" 5K event. To date, she has completed numerous 5Ks/10Ks, over 20 half marathons and three marathons. Shekita's initial running experience ignited a strong passion and appreciation of the sport. Her positive experience using Pacers, during her first marathon, planted a seed to one day help others on their fitness journey. She genuinely enjoys observing spirited expressions as runners cross the finish line and is excited to cheer with you as you cross the line of SUCCESS!

Brian M. - 2:35 pacer

Brian has been running consistently since 2022. He is currently an active member and daily streak runner with the Measly Mile Mafia (MMM). Although he is a streak runner, he prefers distance and munching miles. Brian has run 3 marathons so far and numerous half marathons. He is currently running at least a half marathon and around 100 miles every month to stay in tip-top condition. He can't wait to get out there and crush goals together!!

2:40 SmartPace Teams

Scott B. - 2:40 pacer

Scott started running again at the young age of 41 just to lose a few pounds and be in better health. Joined a local running club and after a few years of a mile here and a mile there he decided to try his first marathon in spring of 2014 and has been hooked since. Two years since the spring of 2014 he has completed many marathons and 70+ half marathons. His favorite thing about running is the camaraderie that runners share and helping others achieve their goals whether it be a first race, a PR or just enjoying a run with good company.

Stephanie A. - 2:40 pacer

Stephanie has found a love of pacing over the last few years and has paced countless races in Omaha and Kansas. Running has always been more fun when running with friends for Stephanie. Stephanie enjoys counting dogs along the race route and you'll find her yelling them out at every opportunity! Come join the party pace and have some fun and hit your goals, all with a smile!

2:45 SmartPace Teams

Katie A. - 2:45 pacer

Katie started running in summer of 2019 when her son was 2 and she had just gone through a divorce. She felt like she needed to have hobbies and to find herself again and running was the saving grace! She completed her first half marathon Fall 2019 during the KC Marathon running with the 2:40 pacers. 2 years later, she had her first pacing role, coming full circle and pacing the 2:40 half marathon group at the KC Marathon. No challenge is too small for Katie as she has taken on a 50k, as well as the Disney World Dopey Challenge (5k, 10k, Half, Full in 4 days) and The Princess Challenge (5k, 10k, half). She is currently training for her 6th marathon!

Kim C. - 2:45 pacer

Kim started running to lose the "baby weight" after her youngest turned 2. She fell in love with running, especially the half-marathon when she completed her first half (The KCM Half) in October of 2012. She enjoyed the race experience so much that she completed her second half just 4 weeks later. Since starting, Kim has completed 71 half marathons and over 50 5K & 10K runs and is a member of Half Fanatics. Kim's goal is to run to have fun and enjoy the journey.

2:50 SmartPace Teams

Amy K. - 2:50 pacer

Losing a parent at a young age from Heart Disease to fighting obesity I have found a love for running and triathlons. From barely able to walk down the hall without feeling out of breath to running half and full marathons and participating in triathlons I have gotten years of my life back. I enjoy supporting and empowering others along my journey. If you want to succeed make a plan, set a goal and put one foot in front of the other. Anything is possible.

Elizabeth W. - 2:50 pacer

As a second generation runner, Liz grew up riding a bike while her father ran, traveling out of state for races, and began running as well at age 12. At age 14 her father passed and she felt the innate need to carry on the torch. Liz has been running now for over 25 years, has completed multiple marathons, half marathons, and countless 5k/10k races. After battling severe health issues in recent years, Liz has switched her focus from "being faster" to enjoying the run, and helping others get started in running and reach their goals.

2:55 SmartPace Teams

Laura B. - 2:55 pacer

Laura's first 5k was in 2010 and then first half marathon in 2012. Since then she has completed 50+ Half Marathons and another 20+ 5k/10ks. She loves the post-run feeling after every race and getting to experience that feeling with first timers makes it even better! Laura has paced many friends to a successful finish and enjoys the full race experience. Steady pace, walk through each aid station, joking and smiling are all part of pacing with Laura. Laura knows we are all stronger than we think and gently encourages everyone to keep moving forward. "You can do it!"

Denisse D. - 2:55 pacer

Denisse is a 40 year old woman, she is married to her husband Tony and together they have two children; Johann and Jayla. Denisse was raised in a family of runners, Denisse Ruiz developed a profound appreciation for movement and running as essential elements of life. Having learned to cherish the act of running and its positive impact, Denisse holds the belief that running is a deeply personal experience. In her perspective, comparing oneself to other runners is unwarranted. She emphasizes that some days may be faster or involve longer distances, while others may simply be about enjoying a leisurely walk. Denisse sees the beauty in the diversity of movement. Even though Denisse was exposed to running from a very young age, it wasn't until the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic that she found herself conquering the distance and running her first half, then her first full, and after that, her first 50k. Despite a couple of health issues that have hindered her ability to run as much as she wishes, Denisse has continued her running journey. She has expressed that she cannot stay away from running for a long period because it brings her a sense of sadness. For the race her main goal is to help other people get to the finish line, doing the best for them to get there by keeping them motivated and engaged she would like to play some music to make things fun and easier.

3:00 SmartPace Teams

Rebecca H. - 3:00 pacer

Rebecca started running in 2009 because she had always been in awe of runners' athleticism. Soon after she had to take a year off due to a twin pregnancy, but managed to complete her first half marathon by their first birthday. Today she has three children, but still has completed many halves, several marathons, and a few ultras. She loves talking running and encouraging others, and hopes to see you at the race.

Sarah N. - 3:00 pacer

Sarah is a mother of 4 boys, 2 of which will run with her sometimes. She has always liked running and became disciplined in her running in 2022. Since then she has ran over a dozen half marathons and her first marathon. Sarah has used pacers and loved the motivation and help from them. She decided to pace to be apart of helping others achieve their goals.

3:10 SmartPace Teams

Mary G. - 3:10 pacer

Mary found a love for running with her local running club in Little Rock, AR. Before long she found herself not just enjoying a beer with them but running races with them. Mary has done some fun races like the nighttime Dam Run and a few mud run 5Ks. She really didn’t get into half marathons until she moved to Kansas in 2010. Motivated by a goal to lose baby weight and take her twins on a Disney adventure, Mary and her husband finished The Goofy Challenge at Disney in Florida in January 2016. Hooked on Challenges, they signed up for the Gauntlet Challenge and Coast to Coast Challenge that same November at Disney in California. They’ve signed up for the Heartland 39.3 Challenges pretty much every year after that. They also enjoyed the Sweet 16 Series in KC while it lasted. Mary has also recently tried out the Heartland 30K Series. After befriending another pacer and hearing how rewarding pacing is, Mary wanted to try it and help out others with their race.

3:20 SmartPace Teams

Penny T. - 3:20 pacer

Penny's started out as a race volunteer turned runner in 2011. Penny got more serious with running in 2016 and has run over 30 marathons, as well as three 50k and two 50 milers. She has also completed over 135 half marathons, pacing over 30 races. She loves talking running/races and looks forward encouraging others to help reach their goals using the run/walk intervals Galloway method.

3:30 SmartPace Teams

Lisa P. - 3:30 pacer

Lisa started training in earnest with a local running group in the summer of 2013 after being lapped by a chihuahua at the Plaza Dog N Jog. She has completed numerous 5 and 10K’s, 20+ half marathons, 2 marathons, and a 50K. Her mantra is “life is too short not to have fun”. She looks forward to helping others reach their goal of finishing a half marathon using the Galloway run/walk method resulting in a positive experience on race day.

Full Marathon SmartPace Teams

3:10 SmartPace Teams

Scott W. - 3:10 pacer

Scott started running shortly after graduating college to lose weight and become more active. At first it was a solo activity with the occasional race to booster motivation and the natural desire to get faster. Starting in 2016 he really got involved with the running community joining in group runs and feeding off the groups' love of running. Completed first 140.6 triathlon in 2016, first 50k ultra in 2017 and Boston marathon in 2018. Having used pace groups successfully for many races to reach new PRs, he is excited to help other reach theirs.

3:20 SmartPace Teams

Rama P. - 3:20 pacer

In 2016, Rama embarked on a journey of consistent long-distance running. Over the years, he has successfully completed over 20 marathons and numerous half marathons. His subsequent goal was to conquer Ultra races and the World Majors. To date, he has succeeded in four of them - Boston, New York, Chicago, and London. Rama firmly believes that the success of each endeavor should serve as the inspiration for the next one.

3:30 SmartPace Teams

Angela S. - 3:30 pacer

Angela is a UESCA certified running coach and has been running marathons since 2016 and ultramarathons since 2022. A big part of Angela's training involves stroller running with her children as she is a stay-at-home mom. Some of her racing highlights include 3 ultramarathon wins, running the 2023 Boston Marathon while pregnant (3:26), a 1:32 half marathon pushing a stroller, and completing a 100k at a Backyard Ultra while expressing milk for her infant at intervals. As a pacer, Angela hopes to help runners hit one or more of their goals by focusing on breathing correctly, fueling, running form, and not starting out too fast.

3:40 SmartPace Teams

Xiaolin L. - 3:40 pacer

Xiaolin was passion about running in high school and college, and he started running again when his son Sihan went to college in 2012. He is an avid runner who has completed over 15 marathons in three counties. His goal is to run all world marathon majors in near future and become a six star runner. Xiaolin has paced the Garmin Marathon, Lincoln Marathon, and Kansas City Marathon a couple of times using the Smart Pacing strategy.

3:50 SmartPace Teams

Erika Rayne A. - 3:50 pacer

Erika started her running journey back in March 2014. She has always preferred long distance over short distance, so in 2020 when she heard about ultra running she started getting on the trails. She has run a couple 5k races, over 50ish "official" marathons, a bunch of 50k trail marathons and half marathons, and two 50mile races on the OT 50 trail in Arkansas. She is on the board for Conway Running Club, her town of residence, and a member of the Arkansas Ultra Running Association. She is also on the board for River Valley Runners. She loves to run because it brings her peace and joy. She loves to pace because it's a thrill to see other people hit their goals and PRs at the finish. #Love2Run

4:00 SmartPace Teams

Matt O. - 4:00 pacer

Matt started running cross country in high school after getting cut from the soccer team, and quickly fell in love with distance running. The camaraderie of group runs, the calm of a long solo run, and the thrill of racing are all integral parts of Matt's life. Matt has been a distance runner for 25 years, building up from 5k's to marathons and a couple ultras (not too many of those though!) Matt has completed over 90 half marathons and close to 80 marathons, and has paced over three dozen events. He is looking forward to helping people meet their goals as a pacer!

Erin K. - 4:00 pacer

Erin has completed dozens of half marathons and seven Marathons. Running is Erin’s workout of choice, self-care practice, and overall favorite activity out there. She will cheer you on during your race and happily share memories from past races, stories about her toddler and baby, and might even sing or dance if that’s your jam. Let’s get racing!

4:10 SmartPace Teams

Ashok A. - 4:10 pacer

Ashok started running in 2015 and discovered a passion for long distance running. He has since finished numerous marathons and half marathons. He appreciates the support and motivation provided by pacers in those races. He believes in the value of effort based pacing during races. He looks forward to contributing to the running community

4:20 SmartPace Teams

Emily H. - 4:20 pacer

Originally hailing from Washington County, MD, about two hours from Washington D.C/two hours from Pittsburgh, PA, Emily grew up as both a dancer and a soccer player while attempting to keep up with her older brother during his training runs. After racing her first 5K after high school graduation, Emily continued to run as a way to handle life’s ups and downs. Once she ran her first 11 miles at age 21, there was probably no going back! Emily has found delight in both the personal endurance and the camaraderie in long distance running. Since 2017, Emily has raced dozens of 5Ks, two 25Ks, 11 half-marathons, seven marathons, and one ultra. She was pleased to make her debut as a pacer during the 2024 Liberty half-marathon. She is excited to meet some new strong friends out on this beautiful race course, challenge those first time 26.2-ers to “run the mile you’re in,” and fist-bump you when cross the finish line.

4:30 SmartPace Teams

Hillary S. - 4:30 pacer

Hillary Susz is a distance runner who is passionate about adventure. Her training focuses on improving her ability to climb higher, run farther, and experience more magic and wonder in life and nature. In 2023, she had a podium finish at the Sander's Saunter and top 10 at the Hiawatha Trail Ultra. This year, she will take on new ultra distances on more challenging terrain, as well as cultivate a community of spirted runners through pacing.

4:45 SmartPace Teams

Rebecca R. - 4:45 pacer

Rebecca started running to stay in shape for tennis and found a love for running ever since. Though setting a certain pace is important, she also just enjoys the experience of meeting people while running and getting to know them.Rebecca has ran over 21 marathons and can’t remember how many half’s!

5:00 SmartPace Teams

Wael S. - 5:00 pacer

Wael has been running since 2008. He has completed several ultra trail races, several half marathons and full marathons. He enjoys trail running with the Kansas City Trail Nerds. Wael completed three 100 mile ultra runs with a sub-24 hour finish in Feb, 2014.

5:15 SmartPace Teams

Aimee H. - 5:15 pacer

In 2003 Aimee set her New Year's resolution to run a full marathon and signed up for the Chicago Marathon. After the unbelieve feeling of not only running the race but crossing the finish line she was hooked for life. Over the years she has ran over 60 half marathons, 14 full marathons, and numerous other races. It was not until 2018 that she became interested in pacing and has paced a full and half marathon. Aimee has her heart set on qualifying for Boston in 2019 and is currently working hard to make it happen. Aimee enjoys the company of other runners and hearing what inspires them to run. Aimee says "Running a marathon is one thing helping others cross the finish line is well indescribable" Strategy : Have fun, consistent pace, walk through aid stations, and high energy ! My motto your body can do amazing things finishing a marathon is very mental you just have to tell yourself you can in fact do it and you will be amazed at what you can accomplish.

5:30 SmartPace Teams

Tom M. - 5:30 pacer

Tom ran track and cross-country in high school and mostly 10K’s during and after college. After a couple decades of work and family obligations his physician told him to exercise. Running was familiar and races provided measures of progress. He’s run over 40 marathons, including Boston, Chicago, New York, Berlin, and London along with local marathons, half marathons, 10 and 5K’s. He experienced the advantages of the SmartPacing system and is delighted to share that with you, whether this is a first race, a PR attempt, or a comeback race. He will ease you into an efficient pace, going slow in uphills and faster in downhills, along with strategic walk breaks at aid stations. He’ll encourage you, distract you, and entertain you to your goal. He has paced numerous races over several years and enjoyed helping runners achieve their goals.

5:45 SmartPace Teams

Ryne B. - 5:45 pacer

Ryne has always enjoyed running since he was young; however, he fell in love with distance running in 2016, when he ran his first half marathon. Since 2016, Ryne has ran over 25 half marathons and 10 marathons. Besides running, another way that Ryne like to keep in shape is by doing crossfit. When Ryne is not training for his next race, he works as an accountant and officiating softball, baseball, and basketball.

6:00 SmartPace Teams

Leah E. - 6:00 pacer

A "retired" collegiate water polo player, Leah began running in 2009 when she realized she was ready for a new challenge in life. She successfully ran her first half marathon in 2010 with the help of a fabulous SmartPacer and has embraced the philosophy of start slow/finish strong ever since. She favors the full marathon distance but is happy to run any distance as long as she has someone to chat with over the miles. Leah believes that anyone can be a runner and that a mile is a mile no matter how fast (or slow) it's run. She looks forward to meeting you on your 13.1 mile journey together!

The Garmin SmartPacing Team

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Create a free Chase Chart to help friends and family find you on the course based on your finish time.
after you race, please come back and leave comments about your pacer, and complete a survey to help us improve.

SmartPacing is organized by The Runners's Edge in Kansas City and The Runners's Edge of the Rockies in Denver, with support from Races2Remember.com.