Brooksie Way | YPOM Pacing

2019 BROOKSIE WAY HALF MARATHON

Rochester, Michigan

Brooksie Way Half Marathon Pace Team

For the 8th straight year, the Your Pace or Mine (YPOM) Running Club is honored to be the official pace team for the Brooksie Way Half Marathon. This year’s theme is Construction, something that I'm pretty sure anyone that drives in this area is acutely familiar with. Our dedicated workers will surely be able to route you through this course with minimal delays and might even get you through some shortcuts!

If you are trying to hit a goal of between 1:40 and 2:45 for this race, consider utilizing these experienced runners on this challenging course. Or run with them if you just want company. The pacers will mostly run a consistent pace throughout the race, in a sense they will be a moving clock that you can use to gauge how you are doing. (In reality, we will go slightly faster in the first half of the race in order to bank some time for when we start the uphill climb on Tienken.) The pace teams can help keep you honest, help keep you from going out too fast at the start, and help distract you when the going gets tough.

Look for the pacers before the race, they will be easy to find. Each pace team will have a sign they will carry with their finish time on it. No special registration or signup needed, just join them for all or part of the race. They will offer encouragement, advice and answer questions during the race. We will also be at the Expo on Friday and Saturday before the race if you want to talk to us ahead of time.

--- COMMON PACER QUESTIONS ---

WHAT PACE TIMES WILL BE OFFERED? Pace Leaders will be leading these finish times: 1:40 (7:38/mile), 1:45 (8:01/mile),1:50 (8:23/mile), 1:55 (8:47/mile), 2:00 (9:09/mile), 2:05 (9:32/mile), 2:10 (9:55/mile), 2:15 (10:18/mile), 2:20 (10:41/mile), 2:25 (11:04/mile), 2:30 (11:27/mile), 2:45 (12:35/mile)

WHAT PACE GROUP SHOULD I BE IN? Hard to say, you are the best to answer this question. If you find yourself in between two times, it is usually best to choose the slower time. If halfway through the race you are feeling good, then speed up. Most people pick the more aggressive time and then fade badly in the second half. The biggest danger is starting out too fast or overestimating your ability. If you have no idea as to what pace you should run because you've never run this distance in a race before, find the pacers beforehand and ask their advice. Based on shorter races you've run or your training speed they can probably give you a good target pace.

IS THERE A COST TO RUN WITH THE PACE TEAM? DO I NEED TO SIGN UP? No and no.

HOW WILL THE PACERS BE RUNNING THE RACE? Every pace leader will be holding a steady pace throughout the course. Think of them as a moving clock. Each mile should be at the same pace. Or at least very close, we are human after all.

WHERE WILL MY PACE LEADERS BE ON RACE MORNING? You will see the Your Pace or Mine tent near the starting area before the race. The pacers will be there and within 15 minutes of the start of the race they will assemble in the starting area. The pacers will have signs with their finish time on them, so find the time you want and start near them.

WHAT IF I AM USING THE GALLOWAY (RUN/WALK) METHOD? You can still use the pace groups even if you’re using the run-walk method. The pace leaders will not use run-walk, but if your average pace remains constant you will simply pass them when you run and get passed when you walk.

IF I JOIN A PACE GROUP DO I HAVE TO STAY WITH THEM FOR THE WHOLE RACE? Nope. Runners often tire later in the race and fall behind, especially when they are shooting for an ambitious time. If you have to fall back, then do so. Conversely, if you are feeling good later in the race and want to go ahead, do so! The biggest mistake people make is starting too fast, so be careful those first few miles.

I'D LOVE TO SEE WHAT THESE FABULOUS PACERS LOOK LIKE AND HEAR A LITTLE ABOUT THEM. Wow, what a coincidence, you can see and read about them below!

Matt Kiracofe and Divesh Mittal

2:15 Pacers

Matt: "Running for me started out as method to get into shape, and now I look back in amazement at where a little hard work can get you. In the past 9 years I have gone through many milestones from running my first mile, 5K, half marathon, and marathon within the first year.

I guess what I am trying to say is that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. By the start of the Brooksie Way Half Marathon I will have completed 46 marathons in my quest for 50 in 50 states, 30+ half marathons, and my first 50K. This will also be my 14th opportunity to pace a half marathon and I love every minute of it.

Running has changed my life, and I love any opportunity that allows to me to give back to the running community. "

Divesh "The Brown Bear" Mittal: "If there is anything I like more than running and drinking beer (in no particular order) is actually running a race as a "pacer". Seeing the runners finish the race and beat their goals makes me more excited than me doing it myself.

I love Brooksie way, it's my favorite half marathon with some scenic views, and in views of my pacing partner Matt, "fun filled hills".

Running has introduced me to some really awesome people and has given me privilege to be part of such an amazing community. Running is my nirvana, meditation and yoga; it preserves my little bit of remaining sanity. Not that insanity is bad.

My pacing duo Matt (also my running mate and really good friend) is an amazing runner and pacer, who inspires me every day. Also, keep a leash on him, he is notorious to stop randomly to find beers or Fireball. We will make sure that we will have lot of fun on our journey of 13.1 miles through the streets and trails of Rochester, which will involve drinking, singing, dancing and of course, running,. But above all having fun! See you at the start line and let's beat that PR."

Jim Micklas

1:40 Pacer

Start with us, finish with us, or join us anywhere along the way if you want to run some of the race at a 7:35-7:40 pace, or 1hr40min total. If you are thinking about a PR or just a fun group to run with, you've found the right place.

Keep searching the page for other fun pace groups and times!

Victoria Philippsen

1:40 Pacer

I'm Victoria and I'm excited to be pacing this year! This is my first time pacing but don't worry there will be an experienced pacer guiding as well.

I love to run as it has always been a part of my life growing up playing sports. I ran my first half marathon in college about 10 years ago and have ran plenty more since.

I look forward to my first pacing experience along with motivating and cheering you on throughout the race!

Stephanie Kapanowski and Stephen Liegghio

1:45 Pacers

You might remember us from pacing the 1:45 group at Brooksie Way in 2017. If not, then meet Stephen and Stephanie, your 1:45 pacers! Reassured that you will be in good hands! We will keep the group fun yet focused while encouraging you and supporting you until the finish.

This pair is quite the duo! Stephen recently joined the sub-3-hour marathon club this year. He will also be completing the NYC Marathon this fall and the 2020 London Marathon, leaving only the Tokyo Marathon before collecting the coveted World Majors Medal!

Stephen also supported his teammate Stephanie early this year by pacing her to her first sub 1:30 half at Rock CF. Stephanie currently holds a marathon PR of 3:07 and she will also be running the NYC Marathon in November.

Team S&S not only love the sport for racing, but also have much love for the running community. We look forward to seeing you on race day!

Michael Stolnicki

1:50 Pacer

I enjoy running outside year round, almost every day of the week, hot or cold, rain or snow. Running is an interesting sport that can be done alone, with your mate, a few friends, or thousands of strangers. I enjoy pacing because it’s a fine balance between racing and training.

I especially like this race because this is was my first half marathon (and second!) I started running ten years ago and have run dozens of halves and my 12th marathon this spring. I mostly stick to road races, but I do enjoy trails too.

We’ll go out at an even pace, taking it easy down the hills and pushing strong up them. You signed up for this race and pace, you must like hills, right?

Paul Santini

1:50 Pacer

I'm Paul and I will be guiding you as half of the 1:50 group. I have been involved in endurance sports for almost 20 years and love every minute of it. This will be my third year pacing for YPOM and it's been the most fun ever! I'm excited that you are choosing the 1:50 team.

I used to run cross country back growing up and then picked it up again back in 2013 as cross-training for mountain bike racing. I ran the Detroit Free Press Half Marathon that fall and I have completed multiple half marathons, 5Ks and 10Ks since then.

Looking forward to pacing this group and keeping you motivated and churning hard toward toward the finish line!

Lauryn Roycraft and Rachel Selina

1:55 Pacers

If you can't tell from the picture, we are sisters. We've been running together for many years and we can't wait to run with you! When we're not racing, we love pacing and helping others reach their goals.

We've both run a handful of marathons, including Boston, and too many half marathons and smaller races to count. Next up - the NYC Marathon together in November!

If your goal time is 1:55 and you want to have a blast out there, join us! We're here for advice, distraction, motivation and encouragement. We'll be cheering for you all the way to the finish line!

Casey Hogan and Mike Parker

2:00 Pacers

Casey has been running since 2012. He started to run when his son told him he had to quit smoking.

After running his first full marathon, Casey was introduced to pacing. Since then he no longer runs for himself, instead he is always out running races for others. He has been an official pacer for both full and half marathons.

If you don’t find him being an official pacer, Casey is out running races looking for someone that needs that extra bit of encouragement to get to the finish line.

This is Mike's 2nd opportunity to pace a half marathon and he's really looking forward to it.

Mike's background in running is relatively short. He's only been at it for about 3 years. Running a half is his favorite distance. He feels running to be a great activity. It promotes overall good fitness and has allowed him to meet many good people with a common interest.

Both Casey and Mike look forward to meeting many new runners. They will get you to a 2:00 finish!

Rich Koenig

2:05 Pacer

My name is Rich and I’m a Pisces so I run like a fish (or something). I like long runs on the beach (or road or trail or track), curling up with a good book on running, and drinking Gatorade straight from the bottle.

I’ve done 8 full marathons and 30-odd half marathons (because my lovely wife told me to) so have been around the block quite a few times. When I’m not running, I’m biking or swimming or making the world a better place.

So if you’re looking for a good time (of 2:05) come along and run with me! I’ll be here to motivate you to make all your dreams come true and achieve your life’s greatest goal (unless that goal is anything other than running a 2:05 half marathon).

David Baier

2:05 Pacer

Well hello there, my name is David AKA Big Dave, and if you just happened to see a tall guy wearing a sleeveless shirt and a hat it was probably me. Here are some fun facts about me:

1) I’m in the wrong age group: men 40-49 are fast, me not so much.

2) My favorite race is the Paczki Run in Hamtramck; they give you free paczkis and beer after the race.

3) I really enjoy eating at Erma’s, the custard is awesome!!

Now for the boring stuff. I started running when I was 40. Since that time I have run several 5K and 10K races, over 30 half marathons, 7 Marathons and 1 ultra at bloomer park.

So if you want to have fun and find out more about me, please join me and my fellow pacers. Remember it’s all about having fun!!

Matt Shipes

2:10 Pacer

Howdy! I'm Matt Shipes, one of your 2:10 pacers.

I started running about 10 years ago and am almost ready to pace another great Brooksie Way. In my early days of running I loved the support from the pacers in helping me reach my goals. I now love being able to give back to the community in the same way.

I've paced over a dozen races and have run 30 plus half marathons and 17 marathons. This will be my third time pacing Brooksie. So if you're ready for a 9:55 pace we'll see you at the start and hopefully finish!

Sue Lesner

2:10 Pacer

My name is Sue Lesner. I have been on the running scene for about 10 years now. To date I have run 13 half marathons, and currently I am super excited to be training for my 4th marathon in New York City!

This is my third time pacing Brooksie Way. I really enjoy running, talking and helping people meet their goals. I hope to see you in the 2:10 group!

Laura Lubahn and Joe Terranova

2:20 Pacers

Hello 2:20 goal runners, Laura and Joe are once again excited to be pacing this group. The Brooksie is one of our favorite half marathons; nothing is better than a beautiful and challenging course.

Laura is excited to be pacing her third Brooksie Way. She ran her first 5K in 2011 and since then has completed countless half marathons, 18 full marathons, and two ultramarathons. Not bad for a girl who came in dead last, crying and missing a shoe running the mile in 4th grade gym class. Outside of running, her baby girl Chloe occupies her time and heart.

Joe has run or paced every Brooksie Way Half Marathon. So he's pretty sure the group won't get lost on the course. While he's never been a natural runner, or a fast runner, he's put in enough work and dedication to complete 14 marathons, one 50K, and at least 30 half marathons. He's got plenty of boring stories from those races if you're desperate for distraction.

But enough about us, we want to hear your stories. Come run with group 2:20 on race day!

Charles Estep

2:25 Pacer

It’s so great to get the chance to help others reach their goals. I started running back in January 2015 with a great group of runners called Your Pace Or Mine. They helped me get started on my path to greatness.

When I started pacing it felt so rewarding to help others achieve the goals they wanted. I will motivate and cheer you on the whole way to the finish line.

My favorite place to run would be anywhere on or by the water. My motivational quote would be never give up on your dreams.

Jim Liegghio

2:25 Pacer

My name is Jim Liegghio, and I have been running more than half of my life. I’m a Libra, and enjoy long walks on the beach.

YPOM urged me to sign up for my 1st half marathon (Brooksie Way) in 2012, and now I have run or paced over 40 half marathons as well as completing 5 full marathons (3 trail, 2 road).

I enjoy helping others to get excited about there running as newbies or returning to the sport, or meeting their goals when I’m able to help! I’ve even been rumored to have helped a few friends meet their shorter distance goals with only a sprinkling of colorful 4 letter words involved!

I look forward to once again helping to pace Brooksie Way 2019!

John and Sue Siragusa

2:30 Pacers

Welcome Runners! Sue and I have paced the 2:30 group for the last few years and love every minute of it.

Sue has run a marathon in each State, at least once, and John has run every Brooksie Way to date. We both run some part of the Brooksie Way route each week and love the opportunity to share the route and run with those new to the half-marathon as well as veteran runners.

We always have a great time and so will you. See you at the start.

Mike Gribbin

2:45 Pacer

Mike started running in 2012 when he was in a weight loss competition. Running helped him win it and lose 40 lbs.

Mike ran his first marathon in 2013 and has ran 8 more since.

Mike starting pacing races in 2018 and will be at the 2019 Brooksie pacing the 2:45 runners.

Suzy Olsen

2:45 Pacer

Suzy Olsen has been running since high school, but decided in 2011 to really start taking it seriously. She ran her first half in 2012 and first full in 2013. Since then, she has run 58 halves, 11 fulls, 3 50k’s and one 50 miler.

Suzy is looking forward to pacing the 2:45 group at the Brooksie Way Half!

Rochester, Michigan

Brooksie Way Half Marathon Pace Team

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--- COMMON PACER QUESTIONS ---

​

IS THERE A COST TO RUN WITH THE PACE TEAM? DO I NEED TO SIGN UP? No and no.

HOW WILL THE PACERS BE RUNNING THE RACE? Every pace leader will be holding a steady pace throughout the course. Think of them as a moving clock. Each mile should be at the same pace. Or at least very close, we are human after all.

​

​

WHAT IF I AM USING THE GALLOWAY (RUN/WALK) METHOD? You can still use the pace groups even if you’re using the run-walk method. The pace leaders will not use run-walk, but if your average pace remains constant you will simply pass them when you run and get passed when you walk.

​

​

I'D LOVE TO SEE WHAT THESE FABULOUS PACERS LOOK LIKE AND HEAR A LITTLE ABOUT THEM. Wow, what a coincidence, you can see and read about them below!

Matt Kiracofe and Divesh Mittal

2:15 Pacers

Matt: "Running for me started out as method to get into shape, and now I look back in amazement at where a little hard work can get you. In the past 9 years I have gone through many milestones from running my first mile, 5K, half marathon, and marathon within the first year.

​

Running has changed my life, and I love any opportunity that allows to me to give back to the running community. "

​

​

Divesh "The Brown Bear" Mittal: "If there is anything I like more than running and drinking beer (in no particular order) is actually running a race as a "pacer". Seeing the runners finish the race and beat their goals makes me more excited than me doing it myself.

I love Brooksie way, it's my favorite half marathon with some scenic views, and in views of my pacing partner Matt, "fun filled hills".

Running has introduced me to some really awesome people and has given me privilege to be part of such an amazing community. Running is my nirvana, meditation and yoga; it preserves my little bit of remaining sanity. Not that insanity is bad.

​

​

Jim Micklas

1:40 Pacer

Start with us, finish with us, or join us anywhere along the way if you want to run some of the race at a 7:35-7:40 pace, or 1hr40min total. If you are thinking about a PR or just a fun group to run with, you've found the right place.

Keep searching the page for other fun pace groups and times!

​

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​

​

​

​

​

​

Victoria Philippsen

1:40 Pacer

​

I'm Victoria and I'm excited to be pacing this year! This is my first time pacing but don't worry there will be an experienced pacer guiding as well.

I love to run as it has always been a part of my life growing up playing sports. I ran my first half marathon in college about 10 years ago and have ran plenty more since.

I look forward to my first pacing experience along with motivating and cheering you on throughout the race!

​

​

​

​

Stephanie Kapanowski and Stephen Liegghio

1:45 Pacers

You might remember us from pacing the 1:45 group at Brooksie Way in 2017. If not, then meet Stephen and Stephanie, your 1:45 pacers! Reassured that you will be in good hands! We will keep the group fun yet focused while encouraging you and supporting you until the finish.

This pair is quite the duo! Stephen recently joined the sub-3-hour marathon club this year. He will also be completing the NYC Marathon this fall and the 2020 London Marathon, leaving only the Tokyo Marathon before collecting the coveted World Majors Medal!

Stephen also supported his teammate Stephanie early this year by pacing her to her first sub 1:30 half at Rock CF. Stephanie currently holds a marathon PR of 3:07 and she will also be running the NYC Marathon in November.

​

Team S&S not only love the sport for racing, but also have much love for the running community. We look forward to seeing you on race day!

​

​

Michael Stolnicki

1:50 Pacer

I enjoy running outside year round, almost every day of the week, hot or cold, rain or snow. Running is an interesting sport that can be done alone, with your mate, a few friends, or thousands of strangers. I enjoy pacing because it’s a fine balance between racing and training.

I especially like this race because this is was my first half marathon (and second!) I started running ten years ago and have run dozens of halves and my 12th marathon this spring. I mostly stick to road races, but I do enjoy trails too.

We’ll go out at an even pace, taking it easy down the hills and pushing strong up them. You signed up for this race and pace, you must like hills, right?

Paul Santini

1:50 Pacer

I'm Paul and I will be guiding you as half of the 1:50 group. I have been involved in endurance sports for almost 20 years and love every minute of it. This will be my third year pacing for YPOM and it's been the most fun ever! I'm excited that you are choosing the 1:50 team.

​​

I used to run cross country back growing up and then picked it up again back in 2013 as cross-training for mountain bike racing. I ran the Detroit Free Press Half Marathon that fall and I have completed multiple half marathons, 5Ks and 10Ks since then.

​​

Looking forward to pacing this group and keeping you motivated and churning hard toward toward the finish line!

Lauryn Roycraft and Rachel Selina

1:55 Pacers

If you can't tell from the picture, we are sisters. We've been running together for many years and we can't wait to run with you! When we're not racing, we love pacing and helping others reach their goals.

Casey Hogan and Mike Parker

2:00 Pacers

​

​

Casey has been running since 2012. He started to run when his son told him he had to quit smoking.

After running his first full marathon, Casey was introduced to pacing. Since then he no longer runs for himself, instead he is always out running races for others. He has been an official pacer for both full and half marathons.