PACE SETTERS
By Runners , For Runners
The 2022 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon will once again feature a team of volunteer pace setters , carrying flags denoting their target times as they run to help others achieve their target times in the event . We caught up with Paul Murphy , convenor of the pace setters , to chat about the immense effort these volunteers put in . – BY ADNAAN MOHAMED
Successfully completing the Two Oceans Half or Ultra Marathon is a great achievement , no matter your running ability , and thus taking up the challenge of helping others to achieve their goals at this iconic race is a massive responsibility . This is the daunting task that faces Paul Murphy and his team of pace setters each year when they unselfishly sacrifice their own races to help thousands of runners to cross the Two Oceans finish line within specific timeframes .
“ The pace setters ’ motto is ‘ By Runners For Runners ,’ and yes , it can be quite exhausting ,” says Paul . “ Many people depend on you to reach their goal times , but despite all the pressure that goes along with it , there is nothing better than the immense feeling of satisfaction when you finish on time , with all your passengers on board , and you know you ’ ve done a good job .”
Images : Action Photo SA , Ark Images
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