Mike Sego and friends crossing the finish line

SeGo The Distance

Professional Marathon Pacing
for first timers and big goals.

What is Marathon Pacing?

Running a marathon is one of the most demanding physical and mental challenges a person can take on. Even experienced runners can fall apart in the final miles — not because they lack fitness, but because they went out too fast. That's where a professional pacer comes in.

A marathon pacer runs alongside you from the gun, holding a steady, strategic pace calibrated to your goal finish time. A great pacer does more than carry a sign — they read the course, tune into your energy, offer real-time encouragement, and keep you locked in when your mind starts bargaining with your body.

Whether you're chasing a personal record, qualifying for Boston, or simply crossing a finish line for the first time, having someone in your corner who knows what they're doing can make all the difference between a race you survive and a race you're proud of.

Mike Sego pacing runners across the finish line

Pacing That Moves With You

Every runner I pace gets the same thing: a steady hand, a measured stride, and someone who won't let the crowd or the adrenaline pull them off plan in mile one.

I've paced runners from 3:30 to 5:30 finish times across major marathons. My approach is simple — run smart early, hold steady in the middle, and give everything you've got when it counts most. I talk when you need it, and shut up when you don't.

I'll be there on the start line and I'll be there at the finish.

Mike Sego holding his Napa Valley Marathon medal

Who is Mike Sego?

I'm a 12-time marathoner, Boston Qualifier, and UESCA-trained endurance coach based out of the SF Bay Area. I've been running competitively for over a decade, and somewhere along the way I discovered that helping other people reach their finish line is just as rewarding as crossing my own.

I've paced runners at events across the country — from hometown community races to large destination races. I'm also an active member of the Los Altos Runners. My coaching background means I understand the science behind pacing strategy: lactate threshold, aerobic drift, negative splits. But what I care about most is the person next to me.

Whether it's your first 26.2 or your shot at a PR that's been years in the making, I show up prepared, focused, and ready to run every step with you.

  • 12-time marathon finisher
  • 3:05 Marathon PR — October 2025
  • 4x Boston Qualifier
  • UESCA Trained Endurance Coach
  • Years of competitive running & racing experience

What Runners Are Saying

Yuji

"I was a competitive track runner in college, but I never ran any distance close to a full marathon. Mike Sego understands how to help a runner move from 10K/half marathons to a full marathon. Having Mike alongside me has given me the confidence to finally fulfill my dream of running the Tokyo Marathon in 2027."

— Yuji
Randi

"After taking a 20 year hiatus from running, I signed up for the New York City Marathon and at age 41, set an ambitious goal to run a Boston qualifying time. I wasn't sure I could do it - but Mike was so locked in on the goal. He dialed in our pace perfectly, got me through the pain cave, and even executed a surge on the final miles. Crossing the finish line side by side with him at our exact goal time was one of the most special and memorable days of my life."

— Randi
Dylan

"I've been flirting with the idea of running a marathon for years but never able to commit to the training schedule. However now that I know Mike is going to be running alongside me, I have a partner that has finally given me the motivation to pursue this dream experience. And I'm really enjoying benefiting from his experience and calm confidence. Can't wait for the Ogden Marathon 2027."

— Dylan
Themiya

"I met Mike at a meditation retreat, and when I found out he was a marathon pacer, it felt like the universe was pointing me toward something. I'd always dreamed of running a marathon but never thought the moment was right — until then. Running my first marathon with Mike feels meant to be, and I'm looking forward to what I know will be an experience of a lifetime."

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost?

This service is provided completely free of charge 😊. I know firsthand the life-changing impact that running a marathon can have on a person — the discipline it builds, the community it creates, and the confidence that comes from doing something most people only dream about. Helping you get there gives me just as much satisfaction as crossing my own finish lines. The way you pay me is in the miles we run together. 😄

Do you offer training plans and pre-race support?

Yes — with every runner I pace, my support begins long before race day. Here's what that looks like:

Before the race: I work with you to build a personalized training plan tailored to your current fitness level, goal finish time, and race timeline. That means weekly mileage targets, long run progressions, cross-training recommendations, and recovery guidance. We'll discuss your race strategy in detail — where to bank time, where to hold back, and how to handle the notorious miles 18–22.

Leading up to race day: We'll go over course maps, elevation profiles, weather prep, nutrition and hydration strategy, gear selection, and taper guidance so you arrive at the start line confident and ready. I'm available to answer questions, review your training data, and make adjustments as race day approaches.

During the race: I'm by your side from the gun to the finish line. I manage our pace, read your energy, and adapt the strategy in real time.

After the race: We debrief, celebrate, and if you're ready to set the next goal, I'm ready to help you build toward it.

Get In Touch

Ready to talk about your race? Fill out the form below and I'll be in touch.