Crew and pacers are two forms of ultra-race support that do different jobs. A crew supports the runner from aid stations — resupplying, swapping gear, and problem-solving — without running with them; a pacer runs alongside the racer on permitted sections for company, safety, and motivation. Many runners use both in long mountain races.
| Aspect | Crew | Pacer |
|---|---|---|
| Where they help | At aid stations | On the trail, running along |
| Main role | Resupply, gear, logistics, problem-solving | Company, safety, motivation, pacing |
| Runs with you? | No | Yes (allowed sections) |
| Carries your gear? | Preps it at aid | Often not allowed ('no muling') |
| When | Throughout the race | Usually later/harder sections |
You want crew if…
- You need efficient aid-station resupply
- You want help with gear and problems
- You have access points crews can reach
You want a pacer if…
- You want company and a safety presence
- You struggle mentally late in races
- Pacers are allowed on your event
Verdict
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between a crew and a pacer?
A crew supports the runner from aid stations — refueling, swapping gear, and solving problems — but doesn't run with them. A pacer runs alongside the runner on permitted portions of the course for company, safety, motivation, and help with pacing. One works from fixed points; the other accompanies you on the trail.
Can the same person be crew and pacer?
Often yes — many support people crew at aid stations and then jump in to pace a later section, depending on the race's rules and logistics. They just can't be in two places at once, so in races with multiple crew points and pacing legs, runners often arrange several helpers to cover both roles.
Do you need crew and pacers to finish an ultra?
No — plenty of runners complete ultras self-supported using drop bags and aid-station provisions, and some races don't allow crew or pacers at all. But for long, hard races like 100-milers, crew and pacers can significantly help with logistics, morale, and safety, which is why many runners use them where permitted.
Related: Crew · Pacer · Aid station · Drop bag · 100-Miler