Why Do Some Races Use Pacemakers in Track & Field?
Summary
In some professional races, you’ll see athletes wearing different-colored bibs or vests who lead early but step off the track before the finish. These are pacemakers (also called “rabbits”). Their job is to set a specific pace to help the field chase fast times or world records.
Heads up: some of the links below are affiliate links. Translation? If you buy through them, we get a small kickback to keep the lights on and the blocks set. Doesn’t cost you a cent more, just fuels more calculators, guides, and gear breakdowns for you. So, if you're down to support us and score some cool stuff, click away. Thanks for being awesome! Full disclosure here.
What Is a Pacemaker?
A pacemaker is an athlete hired or assigned to run at a predetermined pace for part of the race.
They often drop out before the finish — their role is not to win, but to control the race tempo.
Pacemakers are used in both middle-distance (800m–1500m) and long-distance (3k–marathon) events.
Why Use Pacemakers?
Consistency
Athletes chasing fast times want even splits.
A pacemaker eliminates the “cat-and-mouse” tactical racing common in championship finals.
Record Attempts
Nearly all world records in distance events have involved pacemakers.
Example: Eliud Kipchoge’s sub-2 marathon used rotating pacemaker teams.
Psychological Benefit
Athletes can focus on running, not on checking splits.
Following a pacer conserves mental energy.
Spectator Experience
Pacers make record attempts more exciting and predictable for fans.
| Race Type | Pacemaker Role | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 800m | First 400m at target split | World record attempts |
| 1500m / Mile | Lead first 800–1000m | Diamond League Dream Mile |
| 5000m / 10,000m | Set pace for first half | World record attempts |
| Marathon | Groups of pacers rotate through stages | Kipchoge’s Sub-2 Project |
Rules About Pacemakers
Allowed: Pacemakers are permitted in most professional meets.
Not Allowed in Championships: Olympics, World Championships, and other tactical races usually ban pacemakers to preserve competition.
DNF Status: Pacemakers who step off the track are recorded as “Did Not Finish” (DNF), but that’s expected.
Criticisms of Pacemakers
Some argue pacers “manufacture” fast times instead of athletes racing head-to-head.
Tactical racing skills are less relevant in paced time-trial style races.
However, they are essential for progressing world records in endurance events.
FAQs
Q1: Do pacemakers get paid?
Yes. Elite pacemakers are compensated for their role and may earn bonuses if records are broken.
Q2: Can a pacemaker finish the race?
Sometimes. If they’re still in contention, pacemakers are allowed to keep going — though this is rare.
Q3: How do pacemakers know their pace?
They use watches, lights on the rail (like Wavelight technology), or official split calls.
Q4: Why not use pacemakers in the Olympics?
Because championships prioritize competition and medals, not record times. Pacemakers would alter tactical fairness.
Key Takeaways (TL;DR)
Pacemakers (or “rabbits”) set race tempo for records or fast times.
They are common in pro meets but not allowed in championships.
They step off the track after their pacing duty, often around halfway.
World records in distance races almost always use pacemakers.
👉 Related: Learn about Qualifying Marks in Track & Field or explore our Middle Distance Training Guides for pacing strategies.
New to track & field? Start with our Beginner’s Guide
