FAQ

Q: How do I join the Pacers?
Just register and show up. Really. We’re not into making running hard. It’s free. We’ve got training programs and experienced coaches ready to help regardless of running ability (or lack thereof). So, show up with running shoes, a bottle of water, and the belief that this is going to be awesome (because it is), and we’ll get you going.

Mosey over to our training programs to see what group you should get to know. Then check out the calendar to find our next run.

Q: Who are you guys?
Welcome to the Pacers! We like to run, socialize, and believe in health and happiness for all (so that means no cost to join).

We have seven dedicated and enthusiastic coaches to help train runners—all runners. Brand new to running? We got you with our Pre-Conditioners program. Looking to dabble in double digits? Enter 10-Mile Challenge . Then there’s half marathons, marathons, ultras, trails. We even have a program that will help you qualify for the likes of the Boston Marathon.

We also like to hang out with each other. Rumor has it the Pacers are known as some of the nicest people in Pasadena. While we don’t like to feed the pesky rumor mill, we’d have to agree on this particular point. Check out the calendar to join us for our social events in addition to our runs (though we socialize on the runs, too).

Q: Why do I have to register?
It’s for the safety of you, other runners, the Club, and our community-at-large. We need to know who you are and that you are aware of the club rules. You only have to sign up once. And we promise never to sell or share your info with anyone.

Q: This is a FREE club! Wait, really? I don’t have to pay anything?
Yes, the Pasadena Pacers is an entirely free club. That said, the Club isn’t free to run. We’ve got to pay for this website and other things so we welcome donations in any amount to our Green Can.

Q: What is this Green Can I keep hearing about?
Such a good question. Please read all about here.

Q. Where do the Pacers meet?
Our big, everyone-come-on-out run is on Saturdays at 7am. Every Saturday. Always 7am. Rain or shine. Our usual spot is at the famous Rose Bowl near the Aquatic Center (south end of Parking Lot I). Sometimes other people like to use the Bowl (we’re looking at you, Beyoncé) so we move to Garfield Park in South Pasadena. Regardless, it’s always a good idea to follow us on Facebook or check the calendar to see what’s the haps.

On Tuesdays and Thursdays, it’s more informal. Meet at the Bowl (same place as on Saturdays) at 6 or 7pm and go for a run.

Q: What can I expect at Saturday run? How about a Tuesday/Thursday run?
On Saturdays we gather, mingle, and start our stretches promptly at 7am. After stretches runners head out on their choice of a set course (either on trials or road) with whatever training group suits their needs. If you’re not training for something, feel free to go as many miles as you’d like as we usually have runners going up to 10 miles or more (and less) any given Saturday. We also host water support for the road course and offer post-run nourishment back at the tables courtesy Pacer volunteers.

Tuesdays and Thursdays are more informal. We expect anywhere from a couple of runners to a few dozen, usually a mix of paces and abilities. Most opt to run around the Bowl (four-mile loop from our meeting spot) or train on the surrounding hills. It’s casual and go-with-the-flow.

Also, most Sunday mornings Coach Ezra leads a trail run at Griffith Park. He posts the details on Facebook so make sure to like the page.

Regardless, always bring a water bottle and good running shoes.

Q: Do you have pace groups?
Not per se. We offer pace groups for the Los Angeles Marathon training, but for all races and runs it’s more informal. However, we have a wide span of abilities so it’s easy to find someone that goes your pace.

Q: What is expected of me as a Pasadena Pacer?
That you run. It’s even better if you can be friendly, too. We want everyone to get out and run (or at least get out and moving) as we believe we can help alleviate depression, obesity, diabetes, and other terrible things by just lacing up our shoes and running—preferably with others.

Besides just running, here’s some other thing you can do to show your Pacer spirit:

  • Wear Pacers gear to identify yourself as a Pacer, especially at Pacers events and races. (“On Saturdays, we wear red.”)
  • Volunteer.
    • Bring water or snacks for our Saturday runs. Sign up here.
    • Go cheer on your fellow Pacers at a race.
    • Be a leader. Pace lead for races, join the leadership team, sign up to help or run a fundraising or a social event.
    • Be a true Pacer. Be friendly. Be open. Be kind to others. Do your best. Good examples help the club, and they help the community at large.
  • Run safely. ALL. THE. TIME
  • Donate. Free club ≠ free to run. We’ve got bills and look to the generosity of our club to fund our minimal needs.

Q: Where can I buy a Pasadena Pacers gear?
Visit our apparel page to learn more.

Q: Does Run With Us offer a discount to members of the Pasadena Pacers?
Yes, Run With Us is a beloved partner who sells Pacer gear and offers Pacers a 10% discount on all running shoes and merchandise (cannot be used for food purchases). We love them for this and hope you will too.

Q: What is the Pasadena Pacers fundraising policy?
We love that you are giving back—especially through running. However, we do not endorse any fundraising with the Pacers, nor do we support any endeavors to recruit our runners for fundraising teams.

You see, adding fundraising would change the culture of the Pacers. We would have to decide who and what cause is worthy of support. We don’t think we can or should do that.

We would love to have you and your team join us for the training aspects of your program. We offer your team the same free training programs and stress-free environment we offer everyone and welcome you to the Club.

Q. I don’t live in Pasadena. Am I still welcome to join?
Absolutely! People join us from all over the southland—and so should you.

The Pasadena Pacers is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, charitable organization and donations are tax deductible. Our Tax ID is 47-2143278.