What is a Sweeper?

A Sweeper is the person (or vehicle) that stays at the very back of a race. Their job is to ensure that no runners are left behind on the course and to maintain the minimum pace required by the race permits.

The "Balloon Lady"

In large American marathons like the Disney World Marathon, the sweepers are famously known as the Balloon Ladies. They walk at exactly the 16-minute-per-mile cut-off pace with balloons tied to them.

• If you stay ahead of the balloons, you are safe.
• If the balloons pass you, you are likely to be "swept" (removed from the course).

Why Sweeping Happens

1. Road Closures: Cities only allow roads to be closed for a specific window (e.g., 6 or 7 hours).
2. Safety: Race officials need to ensure everyone is accounted for before clearing the course.
3. Volunteer Support: Aid stations and police need to know when they can officially pack up and go home.

Getting "Swept"

If you fall behind the sweeper, you are typically given two choices:

1. Board the Bus: Get on the "Bus of Shame" (a supportive transport vehicle) to the finish line. This results in a DNF.
2. Move to the Sidewalk: In some races, you can continue, but you must move to the sidewalk, obey traffic lights, and accept that aid stations may be closed.

The sweeper is the shadow you never want to see, but the guardian every race needs.