The 2027 Pace Teams promise to provide fun and excitement for both first-time and experienced participants looking to reach their running goals – whether that’s a personal best or just getting across the finish line.
The Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic Race Weekend will include Pace Teams for the following races:
Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic 15K
Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic 5K
Publix Gasparilla Half Marathon
Publix Gasparilla 8K
After choosing a pace that is suitable for your desired finish time, you will be able to find one of the Pace Team members who will run the race with you. 30 minutes before the Start of the race, your Pacer will hold a sign indicating your desired pace. Find them and get to know them. They will be able to help you significantly throughout the course. You will have time to stretch near your Pacer while they introduce themselves.
Meet the Team
Find out about their running journey. Why do they love running?
Why did they decide to become a pacer?
Vince Carter
Pacing the Half Marathon – 1:45 Goal Finish Time (8:01/mile)
I’ve been committed to running since 2018. I got a taste of the runner’s high and haven’t looked back. I love running because of the feeling it gives me after a good workout. And mental clarity. I’m going for my third finish at the Boston Marathon in 2027. Setting goals and following through is what it’s all about. This will be my second year pacing. I couldn’t be more excited to help keep the runners on pace as they push it to the limit!
Michelle Conrad
Pacing the 15K – 12:30/mile
Pacing the 5K – 12:30/mile
Pacing the Half Marathon- 2:45 Goal Finish Time (12:26/mile)
Pacing the 8K – 12:30/mile
I started running a little over 5 years ago when we moved to a new area as a way to get out and explore new areas. Since then, I have gotten the opportunity to run in so many cool places and love both the road races and ultramarathon trail races. Along the way, I have paced for a number of different races and have a blast helping people reach their goals.
Abby Frank
Pacing the Half Marathon – 2:15 Goal Finish Time (10:18/mile)
I’ve always loved running as a form of exercise. I never ran competitively; I always just did it for fun! I love being outside with a good playlist and clearing my head with a good run. Growing up, I did lots of 5Ks with family and friends, and I eventually worked my way up to half marathons. Last May, I completed my first full marathon in Cincinnati, Ohio, where I’m from! Being from Ohio, I’ve had my fair share of cold and snowy runs, so after moving to St. Pete, I was very excited to have nice running weather (mostly) year-round. 95 degrees and 100% humidity may not be the most ideal, but a sunrise run at Vinoy makes up for it. I wanted to become a pacer because I know how motivating they can be for athletes in a race! I want to help push people to chase their goal times and be a source of encouragement for them throughout the race!
Hayden Grim
Pacing the 15K – 7:30/mile Pacing the 5K – 7:30/mile
Pacing the Half Marathon – 1:40 Goal Finish Time (7:38/mile)
Pacing the 8K – 7:30/mile
I got into running several years ago as a way to challenge myself and spend time outdoors. Over the last few years, I’ve raced everything from 5ks to 100-milers, with my main focus being the marathon distance. I’m so thankful running has connected me with such great people and given me something to constantly work toward. I’ve paced the last few years and wouldn’t miss it for the world. I love the energy of the Gasparilla races, and I really enjoy helping other people achieve their goals.
Trisha Lampi
Pacing the Half Marathon – 2:05 Goal Finish Time (9:33/mile)
Been running since 2014. I love running because it’s so inspiring; through being consistent and getting better and faster, you learn how much running teaches you about being consistent in all aspects of life. I decided to pace because I love helping people run and making them faster and more efficient runners.
Alina Massey
Pacing the 5K – 10:00/mile
Pacing the 8K – 11:00/mile
I started running seriously in September of 2024 and did my first half marathon! Ever since then, running has been a part of my life. I love running because it challenges not only my body, but also my mind! I paced the 10 min 5k last year, and I absolutely loved it. I am so excited for this year’s races!!
Jordan McCelelan
Pacing the Half Marathon – 2:10 Goal Finish Time (9:55/mile)
Running has always been a part of my life, but over the past few years I’ve loved taking on longer distances and challenging myself in new ways. I love running because there is always a new goal to work toward, whether that’s a new distance, a faster time, or simply becoming a stronger runner both physically and mentally.
The 2027 PGDC Half Marathon will be my third PGDC Half, and I’m excited to take on the race from a new perspective this year as a pacer. I’m currently training for the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon, another exciting milestone in my running journey.
I decided to become a pacer because I know how much encouragement and having someone to run alongside can mean on race day. I’m looking forward to helping runners stay motivated, enjoy the experience, and cross the finish line feeling proud of what they accomplished.
Alo Salinas
Pacing the Half Marathon – 2:45 Goal Finish Time (12:26 mile)
I picked up running during a hard time in my life, and it ended up giving me so much more than I expected. It gave me a community, friendships, and tons of amazing memories.
Getting to pace again is extra special. I love being able to cheer people on, support them through their hard miles, and give back the same encouragement running once gave me.
Janet Viera
Pacing the 15K – 9:30/mile
Pacing the Half Marathon – 2:05 Goal Finish Time (9:33/mile)
I love running and have been working towards a few marathon goals. Because of this, I run all the time, and being a pacer allows me to get a fun run in while also helping others reach their goals.