NYRR Pace Team: Justin Wood

What’s your favorite part about being an NYRR Pace Team member?
I love meeting people from across the spectrum of humanity, across the country or world united in a purpose of getting to the finish line. When I pace, our group attempts to work together and support each other as a team.

How many TCS New York City Marathons have you paced?
I've paced more than 7 New York City Marathons.

Do you have a great story of pacing a runner(s) and helping them achieve their goal?
I paced the NYC Half one year and we had a guy running in a full suit attempting to get the fastest half marathon in a suit. I believe he stayed with our group for most of the race before taking off the last few miles. He accomplished his goal!

What’s a misconception people have about being a pacer?
We're not paid to pace and we're human. We do this to help runners, and there is pure joy helping people achieve their goals.

What’s the hardest thing about being a pacer?
Keeping count of everyone in our group at the start. Each year it seems to grow!