Active Leisure Events - Pace Runners

Essar Chester Half Marathon - Sunday 17th May 2026

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Days Hours Minutes Seconds

17 May 2026 09:00

Essar Chester Half Marathon - Sunday 17th May 2026

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Pace Runners

Below is our Pace Crew for 2026 and their corresponding target times. Our Pace Runners run the race at a pre-determined pace, which they may adjust slightly at different points in the race to take account of the changes in terrain.

If you are a new runner with a specific target time in mind or you are looking to beat your personal best time, the Pace Crew will be there to help you achieve your goal.

Our Pace Runners are also a familiar sight at our monthly training runs, where they support runners in their progress towards race day.

If you'd like to be considered for our future Pace Crew please contact our Pace Crew Manager, Dave on davet@activeleisureevents.co.uk.

ROB Target Time: 1:30

A member of Wirral AC, Rob is a regular at the pointy end of the Pace Crew. "It’s a big responsibility, but the look on peoples’ faces when they cross the line with the time they wanted is priceless!"

RUSSEL Target Time: 1:30

Russel of Chorlton Runners stepped in to pace last year's marathon at very short notice and did an excellent job, so good in fact that we are delighted to have him back to pace the half marathon.
MATTHEW Target Time: 1:40

We welcome Matt of Ellesmere Port RC as a one of our new but well seasoned members of the Pace Crew.

JASON Target Time: 1:40

Since his first pacing run in the 2015 Chester Marathon, Jason of Blackburn Road Runners has gone on to pace in events all over the world.
KYLE Target Time: 1:50

Kyle of Wrecsam Tri has regularly paced at both our half and full marathons, we're pleased to welcome him to the half marathon Pace Crew once again.

SHAFIQ Target Time: 1:50

Shafiq, from Blackburn Road Runners, is a seasoned member of our Pace Crew. "I get quite a buzz from pacing. It’s good to put something back into my sport".

Jason Target Time: 1:50

This is the second outing for Jason Walker of Blackburn RR with us as a pacer
JON Target Time: 2:00

North Wales Road Runner Jon has paced many times with us before. "I’ve been pacing for years and just love it whether that’s on one of the monthly training runs or the race itself. It’s great to support other runners!"

STEVE Target Time: 2:00

Another stalwart of the team, Steve from Buckley RC was part of the very first Pace Crew in 2013 and keeps coming back for more! Keep an eye out for his colourful headwear.

ADAM Target Time: 2:00

Running vlogger Adam makes his second appearance as a member of our Pace Crew

STEPHEN Target Time: 2:00

Stephen of West Cheshire AC is a valued member of the Pace Crew and a familiar sight at the monthly training runs.
ANGHARAD Target Time: 2:10

Angharad of Chester Tri makes is becoming a common friendly face in our Pace Crew. Youu are in good hands (or legs) with Angharad.

CAZ Target Time: 2:10

Like her club mate Kelvin, Caz was a member of the inaugural marathon Pace Crew in 2013 and has paced at almost every event since.

NIGE Target Time: 2:10

Nige from Helsby RC will be pacing one of the popular half marathon target times this year: "I have really enjoyed supporting the runners at the monthly training runs and now look forward to pacing on race day."
GRAHAM Target Time: 2:20

Spectrum Strider Graham has paced our events for many years. "I enjoy empowering the runners around me and feel privileged to be a pacer."

DAVE Target Time: 2:20

Dave of Northbrook AC has paced for us many times across multiple distances, he's sure to help you get that target time you're after.
Lisa Target Time: 2:30

Lisa of Ellesmere Port RC made her pacing debut with us in the 2023 marathon and has been mainstay in the crew ever since.

LIZ Target Time: 2:30

Liz of Helsby RC is a key member of the squad and can often be seen supporting runners at the monthly training runs. "Helping runners to achieve their goals has added a new dimension to my own running. It’s great!"