forerunning

Forerunning is the practice of running a race course ahead of the scheduled event to gather information about its conditions and layout. It is conducted by race organizers, course marshals, volunteers, or, in some cases, experienced runners who are not part of the competing field. The primary purposes are to verify that the route is safe and properly marked, to measure actual distance and elevation, and to identify hazards such as uneven surfaces, construction zones, water crossings, or wildlife.

Forerunners may traverse the entire course hours or days before the start, or may precede the main field in an informal reconnaissance. In road races and trail events, reconnaissance helps organizers plan signage, pacing, water and aid stations, traffic management, and potential emergency access. In some events, the reconnaissance is done by dedicated teams and may be indicated by distinctive bibs or flags to minimize interaction with competitors and spectators.

Ethics and safety considerations include avoiding interference with the race, maintaining separation from the main field, and obtaining any necessary permissions from organizers or authorities. Information gathered is typically used to improve safety and logistics rather than to confer any competitive advantage.

Relation to pacing: Forerunning is distinct from pacers or lead runners who set a tempo for the field; forerunners aim to assess and document course conditions, not influence race dynamics. The term is also used in some regions as course reconnaissance or recce.