What is the role of pacemakers in distance races?

• A. Allowed in specific races but not in Major Championships.
• B. Always allowed.
• C. Never allowed.
• D. Only used in sprints.

Answer: (A)

Pacemakers (often called rabbits) are used in distance races to set a fast, steady pace for part of the race, helping athletes achieve faster times or pursue a time-based record. They lead for a designated distance and then step aside or drop out, so the rest of the field finishes based on competition rather than following a pacing partner. This role is allowed only in certain events and meets—great for time trials or record attempts—while Major Championships typically do not permit pacemakers in the final race, preserving direct head-to-head racing. That balance—permitted in specific races but not in Major Championships—best fits how pacemakers are actually used. They’re not used in sprints, which are too short to benefit from a pacing partner.