the world > movement > rate of motion > move at specific rate [verb (intransitive)] > set speed of movement or progress (2)
Sport (originally Horse Racing). To set the pace at or from the start of a race; (hence) to take or hold the lead in (esp. the early part of) any…
In a chase or race, to set the pace, to proceed at a rate of speed to be followed by another; also in extended use. So to set the stroke (in rowing).