| What it is | Support team meeting the runner at aid |
| Who | Friends, family, fellow runners |
| Does | Resupply, gear swaps, encouragement, problem-solving |
| Goal | Fast, effective aid-station stops |
A crew is the team of supporters — friends, family, or fellow runners — who meet a racer at designated crew-access aid stations during an ultra to resupply fluids and food, swap gear and clothing, provide encouragement, and help with problems. A good crew anticipates the runner’s needs to make aid-station stops fast and effective, and is a major asset in long mountain races.
Crew vs pacer
Support from the aid station (vs a pacer who runs with you) in ultrarunning, often handling your drop bags.
Frequently asked questions
What does a crew do in an ultramarathon?
A crew meets the runner at crew-accessible aid stations to provide hands-on support: refilling bottles and the hydration vest, handing over food and electrolytes, swapping clothing, shoes, and gear, helping with foot care or injuries, and offering crucial encouragement. Their job is to anticipate needs so the runner can refuel and move on quickly.
What's the difference between a crew and a pacer?
A crew supports the runner from aid stations without running with them, handling logistics and supplies; a pacer runs alongside the runner on permitted sections (usually later in the race) for company, safety, and motivation but generally can't physically carry the runner's gear or aid them in prohibited ways. Many runners use both.
How do you crew well?
Know the runner's plan and preferences, have supplies organized and ready before they arrive, work efficiently to minimize stop time, stay calm and positive even when the runner is struggling, and adapt to changing needs (weather, fueling problems, morale). Good crewing can make a real difference in a runner's race outcome.
Sources
- Crewing an ultra — American Trail Running Association
- Race support — The Mountaineers