Pacers |
CVX Marathon and Half Marathon Official Pacers will be available in the staging area on Saturday, June 25 holding large signs with the finish time they will be running. They will be wearing brightly-colored shirts. Pacing will be available for those running miles in the following minute time frames: Marathon / Half Marathon (pace per mile)
3:15 (7:26 mile) ----- 3:30 (8:00 mile) ----- 3:40 (8:23 mile) ----- 3:56 (9:00 mile) 4:30 (10:18 mile) ------ 5:00 (11:26 mile) - 5:30 (12:35 mile) Participants do not need to pre-register to run with an Official Pacer. If you have questions, please see our contact page. |
2016 pace team - FULL Marathon
7:26 pace team (3:15 )
Ken Brooks
I have paced around 10 half marathons, 5 25Ks, and 75 full marathons.
Pacing highlights include:
Grand Rapids 26.2 x5 , Kalamazoo 26.2 x5 ,Chicago 26.2 x4, Carmel 26.2 x3, Indy Monumental 26.2 x2, RBR (River Bank Run) 25K x5
The pace groups include:
2:59-3:15 for 26.2 --- 7:00-7:30 min/mile for 25K ----1:30 for 13.1
I am a professional running distance pacer for Marathonpacing.com. I have paced many individuals and groups of runners to personal bests and Boston qualifying times and have never missed my pace for any distance. I am also the 2012 Charlevoix Marathon and 2013 Charlevoix 10K champion.
I have paced around 10 half marathons, 5 25Ks, and 75 full marathons.
Pacing highlights include:
Grand Rapids 26.2 x5 , Kalamazoo 26.2 x5 ,Chicago 26.2 x4, Carmel 26.2 x3, Indy Monumental 26.2 x2, RBR (River Bank Run) 25K x5
The pace groups include:
2:59-3:15 for 26.2 --- 7:00-7:30 min/mile for 25K ----1:30 for 13.1
I am a professional running distance pacer for Marathonpacing.com. I have paced many individuals and groups of runners to personal bests and Boston qualifying times and have never missed my pace for any distance. I am also the 2012 Charlevoix Marathon and 2013 Charlevoix 10K champion.
Scot Ursum
I'm a late bloomer when it comes to running. I started running recreationally in my late 20's and didn't start entering races until my early 30's. I started with a few 5K's and was hooked. Since then I have run well over 200 races, ranging from the mile to ultramarathons, and I can't imagine what life would be like without running. My favorite distance is the marathon, with 41 completed to date. My first pacing gig was in the 2010 Grand Rapids Marathon as part of the Pi pace team (3:14). Being a pacer is something that I always look forward to. I enjoy sharing the passion of running with fellow runners and helping each runner achieve their goals. I look forward to being part of the 3:15 pace team in this year's Charlevoix Marathon and helping you reach your goal.
Pacing Experience: GR Marathon x5 Pi Pace group (3:14), Portage Winter Blast Half Marathon x1 (1:30)
& Kalamazoo Half Marathon x3 (1:30)
I'm a late bloomer when it comes to running. I started running recreationally in my late 20's and didn't start entering races until my early 30's. I started with a few 5K's and was hooked. Since then I have run well over 200 races, ranging from the mile to ultramarathons, and I can't imagine what life would be like without running. My favorite distance is the marathon, with 41 completed to date. My first pacing gig was in the 2010 Grand Rapids Marathon as part of the Pi pace team (3:14). Being a pacer is something that I always look forward to. I enjoy sharing the passion of running with fellow runners and helping each runner achieve their goals. I look forward to being part of the 3:15 pace team in this year's Charlevoix Marathon and helping you reach your goal.
Pacing Experience: GR Marathon x5 Pi Pace group (3:14), Portage Winter Blast Half Marathon x1 (1:30)
& Kalamazoo Half Marathon x3 (1:30)
Steve Jablonski - Muskegon, MI
My name is Steve from Muskegon. I started running when I was 18 months old. I like long walks on the beach and spending time with my gal Courtney.
I qualified for Boston last year and am looking forward to that experience, gonna be wicked awesome. I am a member of the Grand Haven Running Club and enjoy the time with my fellow runners.
I look forward to pacing the 3:15 group with Scot and Ken. See you at the start line!
My name is Steve from Muskegon. I started running when I was 18 months old. I like long walks on the beach and spending time with my gal Courtney.
I qualified for Boston last year and am looking forward to that experience, gonna be wicked awesome. I am a member of the Grand Haven Running Club and enjoy the time with my fellow runners.
I look forward to pacing the 3:15 group with Scot and Ken. See you at the start line!
8:00 pace team (3:30)
Val Petre - Holland, MI
My name is Val Petre. I’m 41 years old and mom to three beautiful daughters, 19, 18 and 14. I live in Holland, with my husband and youngest daughter. I work at the Holland Free Health Clinic as the health programs manager.
I began running in the spring of 2010 while going through a divorce. People often say running is great therapy. It is! The Fifth Third Riverbank Run was my first road race; I was hooked.
Since that day, I’ve run 24 marathon or longer races.
My running accomplishments include a Marathon PR of 3:18 at GRM in 2013, 2nd place female Arctic Frog 50K, 2nd place female Oktoberfest Marathon in 2013 & 2015, 1st place Female Master's Oktoberfest Marathon in 2014, 3rd place female finisher at Kalamazoo Marathon 2015, 1st Place Female Finisher 2015 Funderwear Run 5K, multiple Boston Qualifying race finish times, completed two Boston Marathons, 2 NYC Marathon qualified entries 2015 & 2016, multiple age group wins and top 10 female finishes.
I am a member of the Grand Haven Running Club and the Holland Running Club, on which I serve on the board as secretary. I also run with Team StellaFly out of Grand Rapids and with Oiselle Volée (a global community made up of women with diverse running backgrounds and competitive goals. The mission is to continue to build a sisterhood that is strong, supportive and passionate.)
Running is my passion and I aim to share my passion with all. My greatest running moment was pacing my 19 year old daughter in her first half marathon. She age grouped on her first road race ever! Proud mom moment and a running memory I’ll cherish forever.
I love helping others reach their goals. Last year I paced the 3:42 group at Charlevoix and claimed a victory by helping a runner get her BQ. THAT was fun!
I look forward to helping you reach your goals too!
My name is Val Petre. I’m 41 years old and mom to three beautiful daughters, 19, 18 and 14. I live in Holland, with my husband and youngest daughter. I work at the Holland Free Health Clinic as the health programs manager.
I began running in the spring of 2010 while going through a divorce. People often say running is great therapy. It is! The Fifth Third Riverbank Run was my first road race; I was hooked.
Since that day, I’ve run 24 marathon or longer races.
My running accomplishments include a Marathon PR of 3:18 at GRM in 2013, 2nd place female Arctic Frog 50K, 2nd place female Oktoberfest Marathon in 2013 & 2015, 1st place Female Master's Oktoberfest Marathon in 2014, 3rd place female finisher at Kalamazoo Marathon 2015, 1st Place Female Finisher 2015 Funderwear Run 5K, multiple Boston Qualifying race finish times, completed two Boston Marathons, 2 NYC Marathon qualified entries 2015 & 2016, multiple age group wins and top 10 female finishes.
I am a member of the Grand Haven Running Club and the Holland Running Club, on which I serve on the board as secretary. I also run with Team StellaFly out of Grand Rapids and with Oiselle Volée (a global community made up of women with diverse running backgrounds and competitive goals. The mission is to continue to build a sisterhood that is strong, supportive and passionate.)
Running is my passion and I aim to share my passion with all. My greatest running moment was pacing my 19 year old daughter in her first half marathon. She age grouped on her first road race ever! Proud mom moment and a running memory I’ll cherish forever.
I love helping others reach their goals. Last year I paced the 3:42 group at Charlevoix and claimed a victory by helping a runner get her BQ. THAT was fun!
I look forward to helping you reach your goals too!
Courtney Hansen - Muskegon, MI
I'm a 34 year old mom to a very active 8 year old and a middle school technology coach/teacher. While I ran a few seasons in high school, running truly became a part of my life as a way of dealing with grief and loss four years ago. Since then, I have trained and completed several half marathons and qualified for Boston 2016. My favorite race of all time is the Gazelle Girl Half Marathon...the spirit of the race, with all its woman-power, is indescribable and will always hold a special place in my heart.
West Michigan has proven to be the perfect training ground for me with all the trails, beaches, and bike paths offering breath-taking views. I enjoy running locally with the Grand Haven Running Club and Run Muskegon which provide camaraderie and accountability during and between training cycles.
As a member of the Oiselle Volee team for the past two years, I have experienced support from this flock of women runners of all walks of life. They inspire me to share my experiences and help other runners achieve their goals, as so many have helped support and guide me to my goals.
I look forward being a member of the Charlevoix Marathon pacing team and getting be a part of the journey with so many other runners who will be chasing their own goals.
I'm a 34 year old mom to a very active 8 year old and a middle school technology coach/teacher. While I ran a few seasons in high school, running truly became a part of my life as a way of dealing with grief and loss four years ago. Since then, I have trained and completed several half marathons and qualified for Boston 2016. My favorite race of all time is the Gazelle Girl Half Marathon...the spirit of the race, with all its woman-power, is indescribable and will always hold a special place in my heart.
West Michigan has proven to be the perfect training ground for me with all the trails, beaches, and bike paths offering breath-taking views. I enjoy running locally with the Grand Haven Running Club and Run Muskegon which provide camaraderie and accountability during and between training cycles.
As a member of the Oiselle Volee team for the past two years, I have experienced support from this flock of women runners of all walks of life. They inspire me to share my experiences and help other runners achieve their goals, as so many have helped support and guide me to my goals.
I look forward being a member of the Charlevoix Marathon pacing team and getting be a part of the journey with so many other runners who will be chasing their own goals.
Kyle Mirles - Muskegon, MI
Bio coming soon!
Bio coming soon!
8:23 pace team (3:40)
David Seely - Kalamazoo, MI
My name is David Seeley and I am a pace leader for the 3:55 marathon group. I am married with three children. I am 45 years old and started running around seven years ago. I spent my first year running on a treadmill(last winter was the first time I didn't use the treadmill and braved the elements). My first race was a 5K and I placed second in my age group .
I officially had the running bug. I have since run several marathons and had a Boston Qualifier at the Kalamazoo Marathon last year. I ran the Indy Monumental in November and PR'd my half marathon with a time of 1:24. I may be old but I'm not dead! I have made lots of new friends through the running community and usually always run once a week with a group of friends. I am looking forward to pacing and meeting some new friends.
My name is David Seeley and I am a pace leader for the 3:55 marathon group. I am married with three children. I am 45 years old and started running around seven years ago. I spent my first year running on a treadmill(last winter was the first time I didn't use the treadmill and braved the elements). My first race was a 5K and I placed second in my age group .
I officially had the running bug. I have since run several marathons and had a Boston Qualifier at the Kalamazoo Marathon last year. I ran the Indy Monumental in November and PR'd my half marathon with a time of 1:24. I may be old but I'm not dead! I have made lots of new friends through the running community and usually always run once a week with a group of friends. I am looking forward to pacing and meeting some new friends.
Scott VanLoo - Mattawan, MI
I'm a husband, a father to two amazing and active boys, an experienced IT leader, a wellness advocate and a runner. Either it be 5K to 100 milers, I enjoy all distances and adventures that surround running. I started running on a dreadmill in 2008 to help shed the 'baby weight' that I gained while my wife was pregnant with our second child. Then in 2009 my sister in law challenged me to a 5K. Well fast forward to today and I've successfully finished around 29 marathons and 25 ultra marathons.
Since 2009 I've accomplished my PRs in several distances but found that as father time tacks on years some goals are beginning to be more of a challenge. What I have found to help achieve the levels of adventures and personal bests is to surround yourself with others that are targeting the same goal. There is a reason why in the ultra world that many use crew/pacers for those final stages of the race. Sure the pacer is there to help keep a possible finishing target in check but they're also there to help motivate, possibly distract and more importantly re-enforce the passion that we all have...to finish proud, to finish strong, to finish what you have started out.
I'm truly excited to share that 'toe the line' opportunity with you the morning of June 25th. If you are feeling like you've hit a wall while on during the race, just ask me about my Burning River 100 mile race last year or my first marathon in 2010 at Chicago and how running with a temperature is interesting. Hopefully these stories will help you push through that wall so you'll have an absolutely amazing race. As my good friend Ralph always says, gotta run. vanloorunning.com
I'm a husband, a father to two amazing and active boys, an experienced IT leader, a wellness advocate and a runner. Either it be 5K to 100 milers, I enjoy all distances and adventures that surround running. I started running on a dreadmill in 2008 to help shed the 'baby weight' that I gained while my wife was pregnant with our second child. Then in 2009 my sister in law challenged me to a 5K. Well fast forward to today and I've successfully finished around 29 marathons and 25 ultra marathons.
Since 2009 I've accomplished my PRs in several distances but found that as father time tacks on years some goals are beginning to be more of a challenge. What I have found to help achieve the levels of adventures and personal bests is to surround yourself with others that are targeting the same goal. There is a reason why in the ultra world that many use crew/pacers for those final stages of the race. Sure the pacer is there to help keep a possible finishing target in check but they're also there to help motivate, possibly distract and more importantly re-enforce the passion that we all have...to finish proud, to finish strong, to finish what you have started out.
I'm truly excited to share that 'toe the line' opportunity with you the morning of June 25th. If you are feeling like you've hit a wall while on during the race, just ask me about my Burning River 100 mile race last year or my first marathon in 2010 at Chicago and how running with a temperature is interesting. Hopefully these stories will help you push through that wall so you'll have an absolutely amazing race. As my good friend Ralph always says, gotta run. vanloorunning.com
Bob Hillier - Saginaw, MI
My name is Bob Hillier and I live in Saginaw, Michigan. I am excited to be a pacer at this year’s Charlevoix marathon.
I enjoy the pacing experience, meeting runners, and participating with them as they achieve their goals. Whether their first marathon, a personal best, or a Boston Qualifier, there is nothing better than sharing that experience with them.
I have paced 16 marathons, including the last 4 years, pacing the 3:35 group at the Detroit Free Press Marathon.
I love to read and travel. My wife and I also actively support running in Mid-Michigan by hosting a number of training runs each year out of our coffee shop in down town Saginaw.
My name is Bob Hillier and I live in Saginaw, Michigan. I am excited to be a pacer at this year’s Charlevoix marathon.
I enjoy the pacing experience, meeting runners, and participating with them as they achieve their goals. Whether their first marathon, a personal best, or a Boston Qualifier, there is nothing better than sharing that experience with them.
I have paced 16 marathons, including the last 4 years, pacing the 3:35 group at the Detroit Free Press Marathon.
I love to read and travel. My wife and I also actively support running in Mid-Michigan by hosting a number of training runs each year out of our coffee shop in down town Saginaw.
9:00ish pace team (3:56)
Dr. Rick Ganzi – GRM Pace Team Director & Pickle Juice Guy - Holland, MI
Dr. Rick ran his first marathon in 1994 and made many of the normal rookie mistakes. He went out too fast, didn't eat or drink enough, and he struggled his way through the final eight miles. He has now run 103 marathons - including the last 14 Boston Marathons! Over the years he has figured out that with proper training, pacing, and smart race day decisions, mile 26 can actually be a very pleasant experience.
Dr. Rick has had a lot of fun over the years encouraging family & friends to attempt a marathon, and then running it with them. He is a running chameleon of sorts, because he is happy running at almost any pace. He has successfully led the 3:10 pace team at Rock & Roll Arizona, and he ran with his niece on her 5:11 marathon debut in New York City. He says both were incredible experiences. He has paced lots of runners over the years at a wide range of different paces, and he loves doing it.
So when we started the Grand Rapids Marathon in 2004, he immediately volunteered to be the pace team director, and he’s been organizing our pace teams ever since. He came up with the idea of using celebrity finish times for the pace team target times. He says “People would always ask if they beat Oprah, so we decided to just make that the pace. I think we are the only marathon in the world with celebrity pace teams!” In addition to directing the pace teams at Grand Rapids, Dr. Rick is responsible for the pickle juice you will find along the marathon course. He began drinking the salty brine many years ago to ward off muscle cramps, and he arranged for Heinz to become our official pickle juice provider. Grand Rapids is the only marathon we’re aware of serving pickle juice to its runners – another first!
Dr. Rick graduated from the University of Michigan Medical School and completed a four year residency in the Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. He is currently President of Macatawa Anesthesia in Holland, Michigan. His marathon PR is 2:50:44, and he has broken three hours in the marathon eight times, all since turning 40! He was the master's winner at the 2006 Bayshore Marathon and the 2008 Fallsburg Marathon, and he was the first American finisher at the 56 mile 2009 Comrades Marathon in South Africa and the second American finisher (out of 216 Americans!) at the 2013 Comrades.
Dr. Rick ran his first marathon in 1994 and made many of the normal rookie mistakes. He went out too fast, didn't eat or drink enough, and he struggled his way through the final eight miles. He has now run 103 marathons - including the last 14 Boston Marathons! Over the years he has figured out that with proper training, pacing, and smart race day decisions, mile 26 can actually be a very pleasant experience.
Dr. Rick has had a lot of fun over the years encouraging family & friends to attempt a marathon, and then running it with them. He is a running chameleon of sorts, because he is happy running at almost any pace. He has successfully led the 3:10 pace team at Rock & Roll Arizona, and he ran with his niece on her 5:11 marathon debut in New York City. He says both were incredible experiences. He has paced lots of runners over the years at a wide range of different paces, and he loves doing it.
So when we started the Grand Rapids Marathon in 2004, he immediately volunteered to be the pace team director, and he’s been organizing our pace teams ever since. He came up with the idea of using celebrity finish times for the pace team target times. He says “People would always ask if they beat Oprah, so we decided to just make that the pace. I think we are the only marathon in the world with celebrity pace teams!” In addition to directing the pace teams at Grand Rapids, Dr. Rick is responsible for the pickle juice you will find along the marathon course. He began drinking the salty brine many years ago to ward off muscle cramps, and he arranged for Heinz to become our official pickle juice provider. Grand Rapids is the only marathon we’re aware of serving pickle juice to its runners – another first!
Dr. Rick graduated from the University of Michigan Medical School and completed a four year residency in the Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. He is currently President of Macatawa Anesthesia in Holland, Michigan. His marathon PR is 2:50:44, and he has broken three hours in the marathon eight times, all since turning 40! He was the master's winner at the 2006 Bayshore Marathon and the 2008 Fallsburg Marathon, and he was the first American finisher at the 56 mile 2009 Comrades Marathon in South Africa and the second American finisher (out of 216 Americans!) at the 2013 Comrades.
Marissa Martz - Grand Rapids, MI
I grew up in Farmington Hills and now live in Grand Rapids where I attend medical school at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. I began running in 2013 as a junior in college and was hooked after my first marathon. Since then, I have run 10 marathons, with my PR being a 3:03. I have paced the Grand Rapids Marathon a couple times as well as the Crim 10 Mile race. I really enjoy pacing and encouraging people to reach their goals in the sport I love. My favorite pacees are the first-time marathoners because during my first marathon, I really used the pacer to pull me through, and I hope I can do something similar for you.
Dr. Rick and I have been running together since I started training for my first marathon. Now, we run about 50 miles per week together during our peak training. We also race most of our races together and really enjoy each other’s company. We are excited to pace you to a 4:21 marathon!
I grew up in Farmington Hills and now live in Grand Rapids where I attend medical school at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. I began running in 2013 as a junior in college and was hooked after my first marathon. Since then, I have run 10 marathons, with my PR being a 3:03. I have paced the Grand Rapids Marathon a couple times as well as the Crim 10 Mile race. I really enjoy pacing and encouraging people to reach their goals in the sport I love. My favorite pacees are the first-time marathoners because during my first marathon, I really used the pacer to pull me through, and I hope I can do something similar for you.
Dr. Rick and I have been running together since I started training for my first marathon. Now, we run about 50 miles per week together during our peak training. We also race most of our races together and really enjoy each other’s company. We are excited to pace you to a 4:21 marathon!
Shane Angove - West Bloomfield, MI
I was born and raised in Petoskey, MI. I was a mediocre track and cross country runner in grade school but then basically stopped running for 20 years except for an occasional 1-2 mile run in the warmer months. Instead of running I got into mountain biking. I started running again in my early 40’s when I joined a social running group. Running with a group was not only a game changer for me, but more importantly, a life changer. The camaraderie got me back into running. I really enjoy helping to grow the running community and movement.
I have primarily focused on half marathons and marathons over the last couple of years. I like running on the road but really love dirt and trails. I started off using the Hal Higdon training program because it was free and visible on the internet. I am still using Hal’s Intermediate 2 training program but I am looking to get a little more serious about my training and might change it.
What have I learned about marathons?....My biggest thought or answer on this question is pace. I have learned from my own mistakes and talking to a lot of people. I think that you should start off slower than your goal pace by 30-60s per mile for the first 4-5 miles until your body naturally warms up and finds its rhythm, unless you can handle the extra mileage and are going to run a few miles before the race. Then run the remaining miles 15-20s faster than your goal pace. Just don’t get caught up in the adrenaline release miles at the beginning and push yourself to run with the herd, instead of warming up your body. Many people will pass you at the start, but you will be passing most of them and more in the late miles.
What else can I say? I am running with a guy named Pickle Juice! I won’t run with a pint of Michigan craft brew if he promises not to smoke his stogie until after we all cross the finish line.
I was born and raised in Petoskey, MI. I was a mediocre track and cross country runner in grade school but then basically stopped running for 20 years except for an occasional 1-2 mile run in the warmer months. Instead of running I got into mountain biking. I started running again in my early 40’s when I joined a social running group. Running with a group was not only a game changer for me, but more importantly, a life changer. The camaraderie got me back into running. I really enjoy helping to grow the running community and movement.
I have primarily focused on half marathons and marathons over the last couple of years. I like running on the road but really love dirt and trails. I started off using the Hal Higdon training program because it was free and visible on the internet. I am still using Hal’s Intermediate 2 training program but I am looking to get a little more serious about my training and might change it.
What have I learned about marathons?....My biggest thought or answer on this question is pace. I have learned from my own mistakes and talking to a lot of people. I think that you should start off slower than your goal pace by 30-60s per mile for the first 4-5 miles until your body naturally warms up and finds its rhythm, unless you can handle the extra mileage and are going to run a few miles before the race. Then run the remaining miles 15-20s faster than your goal pace. Just don’t get caught up in the adrenaline release miles at the beginning and push yourself to run with the herd, instead of warming up your body. Many people will pass you at the start, but you will be passing most of them and more in the late miles.
What else can I say? I am running with a guy named Pickle Juice! I won’t run with a pint of Michigan craft brew if he promises not to smoke his stogie until after we all cross the finish line.
10:18 pace Team (4:30)
Michelle Snay - Lansing, Michigan
I am your typical adult-onset runner. I began running in 2010 when I signed up for a 5k, not having any idea how much it would change my life. I crossed the finish line, and immediately went home and signed up for another. Less than 3 months after that 5k, I finished my first half marathon. It was official – I was hooked. And, after over 35 races half marathon distance or longer, I am still just as hooked!
It’s hard to say exactly why people get addicted to running. For one, there’s nothing that compares to the positivity and support around the running community. Also, the feeling of accomplishment of setting a PR is unmatched. A finish line is symbolic to overcoming adversity in your life. It’s doing something that you never thought you could do – surmounting a distance that once seemed impossible. Or maybe I just like being able to drink Two Hearted Ale without feeling overly guilty about it. (It really is the best beer in the world.)
I’ve had the great pleasure and opportunity of pacing many races, and I can honestly say that the experience of being a pacer and helping others achieve their goals are some of my favorite running memories, and looking forward to making more!
I am your typical adult-onset runner. I began running in 2010 when I signed up for a 5k, not having any idea how much it would change my life. I crossed the finish line, and immediately went home and signed up for another. Less than 3 months after that 5k, I finished my first half marathon. It was official – I was hooked. And, after over 35 races half marathon distance or longer, I am still just as hooked!
It’s hard to say exactly why people get addicted to running. For one, there’s nothing that compares to the positivity and support around the running community. Also, the feeling of accomplishment of setting a PR is unmatched. A finish line is symbolic to overcoming adversity in your life. It’s doing something that you never thought you could do – surmounting a distance that once seemed impossible. Or maybe I just like being able to drink Two Hearted Ale without feeling overly guilty about it. (It really is the best beer in the world.)
I’ve had the great pleasure and opportunity of pacing many races, and I can honestly say that the experience of being a pacer and helping others achieve their goals are some of my favorite running memories, and looking forward to making more!
Keith Wallace - Lansing, MI
My name is Keith Wallace and I live in Lansing, Michigan. I began running as a teenager and revisited this pastime in 2009. Since then, I have run more than ten marathons. I have a twelve year old son, and I am working on getting him hooked on running as well. We have run a few 5k’s together which he has done well for his age group.
This is the first time I will be running the Charlevoix Marathon. I am looking forward to being a pacer and helping others fully relish their marathon experience.
My name is Keith Wallace and I live in Lansing, Michigan. I began running as a teenager and revisited this pastime in 2009. Since then, I have run more than ten marathons. I have a twelve year old son, and I am working on getting him hooked on running as well. We have run a few 5k’s together which he has done well for his age group.
This is the first time I will be running the Charlevoix Marathon. I am looking forward to being a pacer and helping others fully relish their marathon experience.
Falko Berg – Plymouth, Michigan
I grew up in Germany and never ran more than whatever was needed to just comply with the school requirements – yes, we had to run 3000 meters to get a passing grade … I didn’t like it back then. My non-running brought me through college and the first decade of having a job.
Once we moved to the US I started running … my first Half Marathon in 2008 and my first Full Marathon in 2009.
Fast forward a couple of years – I have run 22 Marathons so far, have reached the 4 star level with the Marathon Maniacs last year (two Marathons in two days), shooting for the 5 star level this year (4 in 9 days). I probably will not qualify for Boston anytime soon – so, I just run streaks …
Why do I pace? Because I like to help and coach others through what might be the biggest thing in their life yet … let me worry about the pace and you focus on yourself … will pull this off …
I grew up in Germany and never ran more than whatever was needed to just comply with the school requirements – yes, we had to run 3000 meters to get a passing grade … I didn’t like it back then. My non-running brought me through college and the first decade of having a job.
Once we moved to the US I started running … my first Half Marathon in 2008 and my first Full Marathon in 2009.
Fast forward a couple of years – I have run 22 Marathons so far, have reached the 4 star level with the Marathon Maniacs last year (two Marathons in two days), shooting for the 5 star level this year (4 in 9 days). I probably will not qualify for Boston anytime soon – so, I just run streaks …
Why do I pace? Because I like to help and coach others through what might be the biggest thing in their life yet … let me worry about the pace and you focus on yourself … will pull this off …
11:26 pace team (5:00)
Jan-Al Robinson - Grand Rapids, MI
I grew up and live in the Grand Rapids area but my family and second home is in East Jordan. I love to run but didn’t discover it until I was almost thirty. I truly believe you are never too old to find a new passion. I can honestly say running has changed my life. At the time I am writing this, I have run 1 Ultra Marathon, 40+ marathons, and lots of other race distances including a 200 mile relay I do every year. I also dabble in triathlons and duathlons to mix it up. I have paced the Charlevoix Marathon, Foot Traffic Flat Marathon, Grand Rapids Marathon, 5/3rd Riverbank Run, Capital City Marathon, and Park 2 Park Half Marathon.
I find pacing to be incredibly rewarding.To support and give back to others in a sport I love is an amazing feeling. I am a member of the 50 States Club and I am a Marathon Maniac. To date, I have completed marathons in around 20 states and love to travel. I find the best way to truly see a city is by foot.
I grew up and live in the Grand Rapids area but my family and second home is in East Jordan. I love to run but didn’t discover it until I was almost thirty. I truly believe you are never too old to find a new passion. I can honestly say running has changed my life. At the time I am writing this, I have run 1 Ultra Marathon, 40+ marathons, and lots of other race distances including a 200 mile relay I do every year. I also dabble in triathlons and duathlons to mix it up. I have paced the Charlevoix Marathon, Foot Traffic Flat Marathon, Grand Rapids Marathon, 5/3rd Riverbank Run, Capital City Marathon, and Park 2 Park Half Marathon.
I find pacing to be incredibly rewarding.To support and give back to others in a sport I love is an amazing feeling. I am a member of the 50 States Club and I am a Marathon Maniac. To date, I have completed marathons in around 20 states and love to travel. I find the best way to truly see a city is by foot.
Amy Rempalski - Grand Rapids, MI
I started running in 2009 because I needed to find a way to stay fit and relieve stress. I didn't realize how addicting running was until I started running 5K and 10K races regularly. In 2010 I ran my first long distance race - the 5/3rd River Bank Run 25K. This was my first exposure to what pacers do. I was able to successfully complete my race because of good pacers, as they prevented me from going too fast and provided good advice along the way.
In 2012 I was a first-time pacer for the 5/3rd River Bank Run 25K. Since then I have paced six half marathons, three more 25K's and one full marathon! Overall I have participated in 35 races of a half-marathon or longer. The pacer's role is critical as we have to maintain a steady pace, but we are also cheerleaders and motivators. I make sure my fellow racers are doing OK and talk through the difficult parts of the race, and I provide some entertainment with my terrible singing and jokes (my song at the halfway point is legendary, from what I hear!). I love helping others achieve their goals and overcome obstacles, and I want to share the excitement of running! I have made many friends through running and hope to make many more along the way!
I look forward to meeting you on race day!!
I started running in 2009 because I needed to find a way to stay fit and relieve stress. I didn't realize how addicting running was until I started running 5K and 10K races regularly. In 2010 I ran my first long distance race - the 5/3rd River Bank Run 25K. This was my first exposure to what pacers do. I was able to successfully complete my race because of good pacers, as they prevented me from going too fast and provided good advice along the way.
In 2012 I was a first-time pacer for the 5/3rd River Bank Run 25K. Since then I have paced six half marathons, three more 25K's and one full marathon! Overall I have participated in 35 races of a half-marathon or longer. The pacer's role is critical as we have to maintain a steady pace, but we are also cheerleaders and motivators. I make sure my fellow racers are doing OK and talk through the difficult parts of the race, and I provide some entertainment with my terrible singing and jokes (my song at the halfway point is legendary, from what I hear!). I love helping others achieve their goals and overcome obstacles, and I want to share the excitement of running! I have made many friends through running and hope to make many more along the way!
I look forward to meeting you on race day!!
Carey Wey Koutsoubos - Lansing, Michigan
My name is Carey Wey Koutsoubos and I am 37 years old. I am a very busy mother of 2 awesome kids- 7 year old daughter and 5 year son old. I started running in 2010 shortly after my son was born. I started off running, like so many other mothers, as a way to lose some weight and have some sort of “ME” time.
I have completed 3 marathon and paced 2 other marathons. I have made so many friends and met a ton of amazing runners in my journey. I believe that you should enjoy the race and trust your training. I look forward to seeing everyone at the finish line. Pizza and beer is always better after a long run.
My name is Carey Wey Koutsoubos and I am 37 years old. I am a very busy mother of 2 awesome kids- 7 year old daughter and 5 year son old. I started running in 2010 shortly after my son was born. I started off running, like so many other mothers, as a way to lose some weight and have some sort of “ME” time.
I have completed 3 marathon and paced 2 other marathons. I have made so many friends and met a ton of amazing runners in my journey. I believe that you should enjoy the race and trust your training. I look forward to seeing everyone at the finish line. Pizza and beer is always better after a long run.
12:35 pace team (5:30)
Janice Schuurmans
I started running in 10th grade. My first 5k, I came in last place on our team and eventually worked my way up to be in the leading pack. I ran track in high school as well with my specialty in the half mile and 2 mile relay. I then went on to run track and cross country at Hope College.
I ran the Fifth Third River Bank Run many times over the years as well as have completed four marathons.
I started running in 10th grade. My first 5k, I came in last place on our team and eventually worked my way up to be in the leading pack. I ran track in high school as well with my specialty in the half mile and 2 mile relay. I then went on to run track and cross country at Hope College.
I ran the Fifth Third River Bank Run many times over the years as well as have completed four marathons.
Erin Hadley - Bath, Michigan
Hi! My name is Erinn and I am so excited to be a part of the Charlevoix Marathon Pace Team. I am 40, married and the mother of three very busy young ladies. All of which are aspiring runners, at various levels.
This race holds special place in my heart. I PRd both the half marathon and marathon in the past years, and to be a part of the 10th anniversary as a pacer is a touching tribute to not only your hard work, but to the awesome memories CVX has for me.
I've been running for the better part of my life, started out in high school as a sprinter and hurdler. That transcended into distance running and now ultras. Trails are my calling and where I have found my peace.
On race day I hope to provide not only support, but guidance and a smart racing plan to get you to your desired finish. Like I always tell my peers on race day, race smart, run free. See you soon!
Hi! My name is Erinn and I am so excited to be a part of the Charlevoix Marathon Pace Team. I am 40, married and the mother of three very busy young ladies. All of which are aspiring runners, at various levels.
This race holds special place in my heart. I PRd both the half marathon and marathon in the past years, and to be a part of the 10th anniversary as a pacer is a touching tribute to not only your hard work, but to the awesome memories CVX has for me.
I've been running for the better part of my life, started out in high school as a sprinter and hurdler. That transcended into distance running and now ultras. Trails are my calling and where I have found my peace.
On race day I hope to provide not only support, but guidance and a smart racing plan to get you to your desired finish. Like I always tell my peers on race day, race smart, run free. See you soon!
Michele Cox - Michigan
My name is Michele Cox. I am 48 years old and live in Howell, Michigan. I have a 21 year old daughter in college (still lives at home). I started running to lose weight and get healthier. It all started with a 5k in 2010 and last year I attempted to do 100 miles. I managed to completed 100k. This year I started off with a 50k on January 2.
I love running long distances. It gives me time to myself to think about anything or nothing at all. I have paced the Crim 10 mile run. I will be pacing the Ann Arbor Marathon in April.
My name is Michele Cox. I am 48 years old and live in Howell, Michigan. I have a 21 year old daughter in college (still lives at home). I started running to lose weight and get healthier. It all started with a 5k in 2010 and last year I attempted to do 100 miles. I managed to completed 100k. This year I started off with a 50k on January 2.
I love running long distances. It gives me time to myself to think about anything or nothing at all. I have paced the Crim 10 mile run. I will be pacing the Ann Arbor Marathon in April.
Pacing Coordinator
Andrew Buikema - Muskegon, MI
Andrew Buikema - I got back in to running about 3 1/2 years ago after a long time of inactivity and gaining an enormous amount of weight. I ran in high school, but then stopped through college and my first several years in my professional life. I led a very unhealthy lifestyle of eating and zero activity. I finally decided to turn my life around and get back in to running. My brother paced me at my first half marathon and pushed my harder than I had imagined. It was then that I realized that I need to keep doing this if I am going to set the example for my two daughters. My wife started running before I got back in to it, so we had another thing for us to connect as a couple.
This running “thing” kept going and as I started as an 8:30 + miler, I am now able to consistently run from a 7:30 to a sub 7 minute mile. I am more than excited to have renewed this love of running. I run for my girls (11 and 8). I run for my wife. I run for a mental release. I run for me and enjoyment and accomplishment of others as a pacer to achieve their goals.
I had the pleasure of pacing the Grand Rapids Marathon in 2014 & 2015 and was one of the most rewarding experiences I have had in running. I have also paced for the 2015 & 2016 Rivertown Half Marathon, 2015 & 2016 Fifth Third River Bank Run and 2015 Chicago Spring Half Marathon. Everyone has a story and it’s awesome getting to know them and who they are and WHY they run. I am also a member of the Grand Haven Running Club and love the camaraderie that all runners share.
I also have a love for craft beer. Being from Michigan we are spoiled with such amazing breweries. I currently teach and work for Pigeon Hill Brewing Company in Muskegon, MI. Love what I do for team PH!
I am excited to have been able to help coordinate the marathon pacing teams for this years Charlevoix Half and Full marathons and the Rivertown Half Marathon here in Michigan! Looking forward to meeting you all at the start line and then we can have a pint when we’re done! Cheers!
Andrew Buikema - I got back in to running about 3 1/2 years ago after a long time of inactivity and gaining an enormous amount of weight. I ran in high school, but then stopped through college and my first several years in my professional life. I led a very unhealthy lifestyle of eating and zero activity. I finally decided to turn my life around and get back in to running. My brother paced me at my first half marathon and pushed my harder than I had imagined. It was then that I realized that I need to keep doing this if I am going to set the example for my two daughters. My wife started running before I got back in to it, so we had another thing for us to connect as a couple.
This running “thing” kept going and as I started as an 8:30 + miler, I am now able to consistently run from a 7:30 to a sub 7 minute mile. I am more than excited to have renewed this love of running. I run for my girls (11 and 8). I run for my wife. I run for a mental release. I run for me and enjoyment and accomplishment of others as a pacer to achieve their goals.
I had the pleasure of pacing the Grand Rapids Marathon in 2014 & 2015 and was one of the most rewarding experiences I have had in running. I have also paced for the 2015 & 2016 Rivertown Half Marathon, 2015 & 2016 Fifth Third River Bank Run and 2015 Chicago Spring Half Marathon. Everyone has a story and it’s awesome getting to know them and who they are and WHY they run. I am also a member of the Grand Haven Running Club and love the camaraderie that all runners share.
I also have a love for craft beer. Being from Michigan we are spoiled with such amazing breweries. I currently teach and work for Pigeon Hill Brewing Company in Muskegon, MI. Love what I do for team PH!
I am excited to have been able to help coordinate the marathon pacing teams for this years Charlevoix Half and Full marathons and the Rivertown Half Marathon here in Michigan! Looking forward to meeting you all at the start line and then we can have a pint when we’re done! Cheers!