Pacer John

Where are you from?

Dallas, TX

Current P.R.

3:12:00 (Allianz Richmond Marathon 2025)

Typical pace

8:05-8:15 per mile

Number of marathons

22 Marathons completed

Occupation

Personal Trainer & Wellness Coach

Favorite marathon

New York City Marathon

Hobbies

Marathon Running, Travel, Volunteering, Fitness & Wellness, Hiking, Community Service

Favorite Running Food

Oatmeal, chocolate milk, and cinnamon mixed together

What are you reading now?

Get Your Spirit Back” by Earl McClellan

Who do you train with?

Jax, the fastest running dog in the business

Personal goals

To complete a marathon in all 50 states while helping other runners achieve their marathon goals through pacing, encouragement, and mentorship.



A quotation you like…

"You Got This!"


Why do you run?


I run because it continually reminds me that I'm capable of more than I thought possible. Running has taught me discipline, resilience, patience, and perseverance. It has taken me to places around the world, introduced me to lifelong friends, and challenged me to grow both physically and mentally.

Most importantly, I run because of the impact it has on others. Whether it's encouraging a first-time marathoner, helping a runner achieve a personal best, or simply sharing miles and conversation on a long run, I enjoy being part of a community that supports one another. Running has given so much to me, and pacing is one way I can give back.


Describe your best marathon memory.


My best marathon memory was crossing the finish line of the Sydney Marathon and becoming an Abbott World Marathon Majors 7-Star Finisher. It represented years of training, travel, perseverance, and dedication. More than the medal itself, it was a reminder that big goals are achieved one step at a time. Sharing that experience with runners from around the world made it even more special.

Why do you pace?


I pace because I love helping runners achieve their goals. Whether it's a personal record, a first marathon, or simply crossing the finish line, I enjoy providing encouragement, consistency, and support to help others succeed.

Tell us your best pacing experience.


My best pacing experience was pacing the Eugene Marathon. While pacing may look simple from the outside, it requires discipline, focus, and consistency to maintain the assigned pace while also encouraging and supporting runners throughout the race. I enjoyed helping runners stay relaxed, manage their effort, and gain confidence as they realized they were on track to achieve their goal. Seeing runners cross the finish line knowing they had accomplished something meaningful was incredibly rewarding.

Why should someone run in your pace group?


Runners should join my pace group because they can expect a consistent pace, positive encouragement, and a supportive race experience from start to finish. As an Abbott World Marathon Majors 7-Star Finisher and marathoner with experience racing across the country and around the world, I understand the challenges runners face throughout a marathon.

My goal is not simply to hit the target pace, but to help runners stay confident, relaxed, and focused on achieving their goal. Whether someone is chasing a personal best, a qualifying time, or simply a successful finish, I'll be there to provide guidance, encouragement, and a steady pace every step of the way.

And when the race gets tough, they'll hear one of my favorite reminders: "You Got This!"


Any tips for runners about to join your group?


Trust the process and trust the pace. Avoid getting caught up in what other runners are doing, especially early in the race. Stay relaxed, be patient, and let the pace group do its job. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself, ask questions, and lean on the group for support when the race gets tough. Most importantly, remember to enjoy the experience. You've already done the hard work in training—race day is your opportunity to celebrate it. You got this!



Anything else you’d like to share?

Whether you're chasing a personal best, a Boston qualifier, or simply trying to have your best race possible, I'd love to have you join my pace group. My promise is to provide a steady pace, positive encouragement, and a few laughs along the way. Don't hesitate to introduce yourself before the race or ask questions during the run. One of my favorite things about marathoning is the friendships and memories created on race day. Let's work together, enjoy the journey, and get to the finish line. You got this!


What philanthropic activities do you have?

I enjoy giving back to my community through volunteer service and charitable fundraising. I volunteer with local running events, support charitable organizations through marathon fundraising efforts, and serve regularly with my church, Shoreline City Church in Dallas, TX and local senior living communities. I believe running is about more than personal accomplishments—it's also about encouraging others and making a positive impact.


 

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