Steve Spang - Marathon - 3:00

Steve Spang has been pacing the Pittsburgh Marathon since 2014 and loves getting to support all the runners of steel each year. Steve has run 25 marathons since running his first marathon in Pittsburgh 2012. Steve runs with the Dancing Gnome Run Club. He hopes to help the people in his pace group enjoy their marathon experience and tour the city of Pittsburgh! His favorite memory is finishing the Chicago Marathon with his second fastest time ever, and experiencing the memories with his wife Natalie and friends that will last forever.

Marathon - 3:05

Brian Benestad - Marathon - 3:10

Brian loves helping runners achieve their goals and believes pacing is one of the most fun ways to experience a marathon. He brings energy, encouragement, and experience to every race he runs. One of his most memorable moments was pacing a 2:43 finish to help a runner qualify for the Women's Olympic Trials in Pittsburgh in 2015. Whether it’s your first marathon or your fastest, Brian’s there to help you get it done.

Carlo Fabian - Marathon - 3:15

Carlo is passionate about helping others achieve their goals by keeping them on track and pacing them through their toughest challenges. He has paced friends through 18 miles of a 100-mile race, even helping them overtake the leader at mile 90, and supported his sister and her now husband to their first marathon finish. With a spirit full of optimism, wisdom, and encouragement, Carlo believes that completing a marathon is a remarkable feat requiring perseverance and courage. He’s here to remind you that you don’t have to do it alone, and together, you'll have fun every step of the way, no matter the pain!

Lee-Kai Sun - Marathon - 3:30

Lee-Kai is a medical student at University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and has run 5 Marathons! He currently trains with Fleet Feet Pittsburgh and is a member of the Fleet Feet Pittsburgh Racing Team. His favorite running memory was trail running around the parks and lakes in his hometown of Atlanta. He likes to train with his friends and is a pacer for Steel City Road Runners. Lee-Kai runs to be a part of the community, explore the city, and to stay active. His favorite marathon is the UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon. He states he paces because, "It's one of the few ways I can help others by doing something I love."

Elijah Shekinah - Marathon - 3:30

Elijah finds it incredibly rewarding to help others reach their race day goals, with a standout moment pacing the 2nd place female finisher at the 2016 Wineglass Marathon. Having paced dozens of marathons, he’s reliable and always gets the job done, no matter the challenge. He might throw in a few bad puns along the way, but it’s all part of the fun! On race day, you have enough to worry about—let Elijah take one of those worries off your plate and guide you to the finish line!

Montana Trombetta - Marathon 3:35

Montana is excited to join his friends in their pursuit of a sub-3:30 marathon and to help encourage them every step of the way. His desire to give back to the running community drives him to help others achieve their big race goals, making this his first pacing experience at an event. Having paced during long runs before, he knows the fulfillment that comes from supporting others through the tough moments, offering encouragement and strength throughout the race. Together, stride for stride, Montana will remind you that your goal is within reach, and you’ll cross that finish line with excitement and gratitude!

Stacey Falk - Marathon - 3:40

Stacey’s love for running long distances started in 2009 when she finished the Pittsburgh Marathon. Since then she has completed over 40 Full Marathons, including running the Pittsburgh marathon for 15 straight year. Stacey is excited to pace the Pittsburgh marathon again as the 3:40 pacer! She runs with Dancing Gnome Run Club, Fleet Feet, and for the charity, Autism Runs. Stacey will help get you across the finish line smiling, one mile at a time!

Natalie Spang - Marathon - 3:45

Natalie loves running because it’s an enjoyable activity when shared with others. There's something special about the camaraderie and energy of running with a group. Helping others achieve their running goals is also a big passion for her, as she finds fulfillment in supporting their progress. Whether it’s the thrill of running together or offering guidance, Natalie finds joy in every stride.

Michelle Dragun - Marathon - 3:50

Michelle is an enthusiastic runner who loves to set goals and achieve them. She has participated in about 20 Marathons. Michelle loves to be outside and other than running, she stays active with hiking, snowboarding, shooting hoops, or playing softball. She loves to help others enjoy their running experience by creating a fun and encouraging environment. Come join her pace group for an unforgettable time!

John Rheaume - Marathon - 3:55

John has run in 20 Marathons, 16 in-person, 1 virtual, and 3 just on his own! He runs with PSL Running Club and People Who Run Downtown. John enjoys playing the saxophone, songwriting, and disc golf. Even though he is a musician, he chooses to not run with music. He paces because it is very rewarding to help people achieve their goals and to see the joy they get when they accomplish something meaningful.

Anna Smialek - Marathon - 4:00

Anna has been an avid runner for over a decade now, having participated in many races from 5k’s to running over 30 marathons. It’s a hobby she started as a bet with coworkers but has now turned it into a lifelong passion. This year will be Anna’s 12th straight year running Pittsburgh; the first few years were spent racing the course until one year she had the opportunity to pace the marathon group. After pacing one time she knew it was something she wanted to keep doing year after year, as she enjoys helping other runners reach their goals (while ensuring they have plenty of entertainment along the way)!

Tim Muldoon - Marathon - 4:00

Running has always been a passion for Tim, and every marathon or half marathon morning feels like "Christmas" to him. In 2019, he discovered pacing, and after helping a runner achieve their PR in Milwaukee, he realized how impactful it could be. Since then, Tim has focused more on pacing than racing, helping others reach goals like BQs and PRs, especially during the tough final miles. For the past three years, he’s paced the Manitowoc, WI marathon, always aiming for even splits, managing the course’s challenges, and providing the energy and support that motivates runners to cross the finish line.

Andre Kostromsky- Marathon - 4:05

Andre has run 2 Pittsburgh Marathons and a few others, as well as a 50k, 100k and 100 miler. He runs with Rogue Runners and works out with F3 group. His favorite memory is finishing a 24-hour 100-mile race in Ohio with the incredible support from family and friends. He’s excited to help others achieve their goals and enjoy Pittsburgh roads!

Doug Schunk - Marathon - 4:10

Doug has run over 20 Full Marathons and over 25 Half Marathons! He loves listening to Dave Matthews Band and the Foo Fighters. Doug’s hobbies are running, coaching, and music. He states he plans to “keep running until he’s old and gray..err, older and grayer.” Now he looks forward to helping out runners looking to meet their own running goals. He paces because he thinks it is amazing to be able to help others achieve their goals.

John Rhee - Marathon - 4:15

John loves interacting with participants and bringing energy to every race. He’s paced the EQT 10 Miler several times, and during his last pacing experience, a runner even joked, “You’re like a celebrity” due to all the cheers and hellos. With his deep knowledge of the course and city, John can guide runners through every street and turn with ease. His familiarity with the route makes him a great resource for those looking for support and encouragement along the way.

Azamat Seksenbayev - Marathon - 4:20

Azamat ran the Pittsburgh Marathon and was inspired by the amazing work of the pacers. This year, he’s excited to try pacing himself, with the goal of motivating others to keep pushing and not give up. He’s paced his friends before, maintaining a steady pace throughout the run, and helped them complete their first half marathons. Azamat plans to motivate runners with encouraging words, cheer them on, and offer helpful tips, like reminding them to hydrate at the right times.

Kayla Jane McLaughlin - Marathon - 4:30

Kayla Jane (KJ) started her running journey sophomore year of college as a hobby to stay in shape, but shortly fell in love with the sport and never looked back. Her favorite runs are first thing in the morning, watching the sunrise in Chicago along the Lake Shore. She’s also an administrator of the Lakeview Run Club which hosts 2,500+ members. KJ’s favorite race series is the Air Force Marathon Weekend, but her goals include a marathon in every state. When she’s not running, she’s a full-time Operations Director in Industrial Tool Sales, and a personal trainer on the side! As a coach and pacer, she finds nothing more rewarding than watching someone achieve their wellness goals. KJ runs for the people.

David Miller - Marathon - 4:45

David is passionate about helping others reach their running goals, whether it’s setting a PR or achieving a personal milestone. With consistent pacing and strategic motivation throughout the course, he ensures runners hit their target times with optimal splits. David tailors his encouragement to each runner’s needs, offering positivity and support, and when it counts most, he delivers that tough “you can do it, don’t quit!” motivation, especially during the challenging final 10K. He’s dedicated to helping you push through and achieve what you’ve set out to do!

Marie Bartoletti - Marathon - 5:00

Marie runs every mile with a smile, having run over 620 marathons! Marie's favorite marathon to run is the DICK'S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon. Outside of marathons, she is a teacher and likes to listen to rock music while she runs!

Mike Salamon - Marathon - 5:30

Michael has completed over 40 Marathons! He mostly runs solo, but occasionally likes to run with a few of his friends. He paces because he likes to lead, yell, and help people reach their goals. He gets to the start line very early to talk strategy and will fire you up! He takes pride in starting slowly, and will finish within 30 seconds of the goal!

Sarah Lee-Faulkner - Marathon - 6:00

Sarah has a goal to finish a marathon in every state. She has completed over 103 Marathons. Sarah is the type of person who loves running and hopes to share that love with others and help them with their goals. She runs with herself, friends, and Rogue Runners. Her favorite running memory is running with her daughter for her only in person Half Marathon.

Bailey Nichols - Marathon - 6:00

Bailey is passionate about helping runners reach the finish line and providing endless encouragement along the way. While running the Baltimore Marathon, she found herself unofficially pacing a first-time marathoner, reigniting her love for supporting others in their race. She also had a blast pacing with Sarah Lee-Faulkner for Pittsburgh, where they worked together to keep a large group motivated throughout the course. Bailey enjoys chatting with runners, hearing their stories, and sharing enthusiasm, always reminding them to stop at every water station—even if they don’t feel like they need it!

Mercedez Hathcock - Marathon - 6:30 Run/Walk

Mercedez is passionate about pacing and helping first-time marathoners reach their goals, creating an encouraging atmosphere for all runners. One of her most memorable experiences was pacing the Erie, PA marathon, where two first-time marathoners stayed with her the entire race, forming a bond as they worked towards their shared goal. She brings humor, motivation, and helpful tips throughout the race, from managing pace and breathing to staying loose and hydrated. As an experienced, friendly, and Red Cross-certified pacer, she fosters a positive, fun experience, reminding runners to embrace the journey and enjoy the race.

Rick Raeder - Marathon - 7:00 Run/Walk

Rick is thrilled to be the 7 hour pacer again. He has completed races from 1 mile to 50K and every distance in between on both road and trail. He is currently the President of Pittsburgh Rogue Runners & Walkers. "If you want to have fun on race day, the party is in the back! Let me help you get to that finish line!"

Jackie Yahner - Marathon - 7:00 Run/Walk

Jackie runs with Pittsburgh Rogue Runners. She has run over 30 Half Marathons and 4 Marathons. She often runs for charity and likes to start DLS (Dead Last Start) to see how much she can accomplish. She states, “It has been very eye opening and helpful to see how 16mm pacers maintain the back half of the course and encourage and pick up people along the way."

Daniel Moore - Half Marathon - 1:40

Daniel finds pacing to be the most rewarding part of being a runner. As the 5-hour pacer for the Marshall Marathon, a double-loop course, he had the opportunity to help a 60-year-old runner complete her first half marathon during the first loop. As the marathon continued, he assisted a first-time marathoner in breaking the 5-hour mark, and she later thanked him for helping her achieve both her first marathon and goal time. Daniel’s approach is conversational—offering tips on breathing, relaxing, and maintaining pace—while taking the stress out of hitting a goal time, helping runners focus on enjoying the experience and enduring the process.

Rahil Sethi - Half Marathon - 1:45

Rahil's favorite running memory was being out of town for nearly a year, but returning to Pittsburgh to run the UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon in 2017. He enjoys running, hiking, astrophotography, and tennis. He has run in 2 Marathons and 4 Half Marathons. Rahil runs with City of Bridges Run Club, Fleet Feet Pittsburgh Run Club, North Park Trail Runners (NPTR). Rahil looks forward to helping runners achieve a time they will be proud to display.

Perry Erlichman - Half Marathon - 1:50

Perry has completed 7 marathons and 25 half marathons in his running career so far! He runs with Dancing Gnome Run Club and the Highland Park Running Club. He runs to stay active and to socialize with friends. He paces to help others reach their goals like other pacers have done for him in the past.

Mike Romzy - Half Marathon - 2:00

Mike’s previous pace experience includes being a pacer for the EQT 10 miler pacing the 7:30 and 8:00 minute pace groups and the UPMC Pittsburgh Half-Marathon 8:00 minute pace group. He has run in 20-30 marathons before. Being a pacer is an incredible privilege that Mike is honored to have. He wants to help everyone have a memorable race day experience whether you want to finish your first race or achieve a PR on race day.

Aaron Angelilli - Half Marathon - 2:05

Aaron started running in 2013 with his first 5k and has completed various races including over 30 half marathons since this time. He has been a pacer with SCRR/P3R since 2016 and has paced various distance events from 5ks up to half marathons. He paces because it is a fun way to give back to the running community while helping others achieve their goals.

Laura Boley - Half Marathon - 2:10

Laura has been in 24 Marathons/ Half Marathons. She paced the Marathon last year and finished within 20 seconds of her time. Her goal is to complete the world marathon majors.

Kim Simon - Half Marathon - 2:15

Kim has been running for 29 years and has run everything from 5K to 100 miles and completed 89 marathons, four 100 milers, five 50 milers, and too many half marathons to keep count of.

Keith Gephart - Half Marathon - 2:15

Keith started running in 2011 and has participated in either the Pittsburgh Full or the Half Marathon every year since. He has run 9 marathons in places like Rehoboth Beach, Columbus, Chicago and of course Pittsburgh three times. He has run over 20 Half Marathons. Over the years he has paced many races. He enjoys pacing and helping others reach the finish line and achieve their goals. Keith is excited to run with others in this year and looks forward to race day.

Anna Bodo - Half Marathon - 2:20

Anna loves helping and encouraging fellow runners to reach their goals, especially when it comes to completing a half marathon in under 2.5 hours. As a pacer, she enjoys engaging with runners in her group, offering support and motivation throughout the race. She is passionate about the running community and would be thrilled to help others achieve the amazing feat of running a half marathon. Anna’s best tip is to have fun and enjoy the experience—after all, completing a half marathon is an incredible accomplishment!

Alyssa Lynch - Half Marathon - 2:30

Alyssa has run in over 47 Marathons, and over 50 Half Marathons! She runs for those who are not able to, and to better herself as a person and an athlete. Her best running memories are running her 5K PR in 2015 and finishing her first Marathon in 2017. Alyssa says she paces because she loves giving back to the community and continuing helping others achieve their goals. Alyssa would like to run 50 Marathons before she turns 25!

Lori Comber - Half Marathon - 2:30

Lori is new to pacing but is excited for the fun challenge and the camaraderie it brings. As a fitness instructor, she loves encouraging others to achieve their goals, and pacing is the perfect opportunity to do so. Pacing with Lori will be a fun and motivating experience, as she offers helpful advice like "steady yourself in your pace, don’t get ahead of yourself, and once you find your groove, settle in and find your joy." Lori is ready to guide runners while making sure they enjoy every step of the journey!

Thomas Mangan - Half Marathon - 2:45

Thomas has run over 200 Marathons and currently runs with Steel City Road Runners. He likes to listen to 80's music when he runs. His best pacing memory was receiving a big, sweaty bear hug from a runner who achieved a personal best time because she stuck with him throughout the race!

Half Marathon - 2:45

Victor Siclari - Half Marathon - 3:00 Run/Walk

Victor began running in earnest around the half century mark when he completed his first marathon. After being bit by the bug, he became a certified coach and has trained hundreds of runners with the Jeff Galloway run/walk program. He most enjoys being a pacer and helping runners complete their first, longest, or PR race. He missed the camaraderie of in-person running and races and looks forward to bringing in the crowd at the “back of the pack.” His best marathon memory is finishing his first marathon at age 51!

Half Marathon - 3:00 Run/Walk

Michael Freker - Half Marathon - Walking Division

Michael has run 11 Marathons and 13 Half Marathons. His favorite Marathons are Pittsburgh's and Disney's. He listens to classic rock artists when he runs. Michael runs for health and happiness. His hobbies are fundraising for good causes, singing, and spending time with his family and friends. He likes to talk, encourage, and walk through the water stops to hydrate with his pace team!

Cortney Sweeney - BACK Half Marathon - 1:40

Cortney loves helping others experience the same joy she feels while running. During the 2024 Pittsburgh Marathon, Cortney paced her friend to a Boston Qualifier (BQ). Although she's running Boston this year, she still wants to participate in Pittsburgh, bringing her energy and enthusiasm to the course. With smiles, laughter, and plenty of motivation, she’s all about making sure no one quits and that every runner reaches their goal. Her advice for fellow pacers: always be ready to smile, have fun, and support others in achieving their best!

Elli Kanal - BACK Half Marathon - 1:50

Elli has run around 10 Marathons and loves to listen to podcasts while he trains. He states that he paces because, "Bringing people across the finish line is just incredible!" In the past he's really appreciated it when others have helped him pace, and wants to pay it forward for others in the community. He states “You’ve trained like a boss; let’s support each other across the finish line!”

Rene Kubas - BACK Half Marathon - 2:00

Rene is excited to pace for the BACK Half Marathon this year. Rene started running 10 years ago and fell in love with the feeling of accomplishment. She has completed races of all distances, from one mile to trail ultras, with three full marathons in Pittsburgh, as well as the New York City Marathon and most recently Richmond, Va. Along with being an avid runner, Rene is also a triathlete. She is excited to join you on your running journey.

Sylvia Freeman- BACK Half Marathon - 2:10

Sylvia got into running back in 2016, inspired by her mom who is also a marathon pacer. After completing her first half marathon in Pittsburgh, she fell in love with distance running and never looked back. Since then, she has run 3 full marathons, 9 half marathons, and paced multiple races. She loves pacing because she gets to share her passion while helping people achieve their running goals!

Jenn Cicchini - BACK Half Marathon - 2:15

Jenn has run 19 Full Marathons! Her favorite marathon to run is the DICK's Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon. She runs with Fleet Feet and City of Bridges. She paces because she loves seeing people fulfill their goals. She says that you should run her pace group because, "The party is in the back!"

Sha Zhao - BACK Half Marathon - 2:30

Sha Zhao has been pacing at local group runs and marathon races nationwide since 2015. She loves sharing her passion for running and healthy living. As a pacer, Sha might remind you of running the tangents, make you laugh with bad running jokes, and encourage you to dig deep when you are tired, but most importantly, she is adamant about her responsibility of running at the assigned pace. You can count on her consistency and leading the group to cross the finish line within 30 seconds of the target time. And you would have a great time! When Sha is not running, she practices and teaches yoga, learns the classic guitar and Spanish, does pull-ups, and works full-time for a local company.

Bryce Walat - BACK Half Marathon - 3:00 Run/Walk

After a break due to COVID and injuries, Bryce is returning to pacing. Throughout his running journey, pacers have kept him motivated, helped him reach his goals, and taught him strategies for both on and off the course. Now, Bryce is excited to give back as part of the Pittsburgh Marathon Pace Team. He’s also running the Back Half Marathon to support the American Cancer Society’s DetermiNation program. As part of the 3:00 pace group, Bryce and the team will run, walk, and enjoy the journey. It’s not about speed—it’s about finishing strong!

Tim Paul - BACK Half Marathon - 3:00 Run/Walk

Tim loves helping people cross the finish line, and even when he's not pacing, he’s always there to offer encouragement and support. Whether it’s pushing through tough moments or providing a boost of motivation, he’s dedicated to ensuring runners finish strong. Tim’s focus is on getting you to your goal time, making sure you stay on track throughout the race. With him by your side, you’ll have the support you need to finish the race on time and with confidence!