Assuming that the connection is possible, a simple polling of the other device would show if it is connected, and could generate an alert when the polling fail.
Especially when racing marathon in the double category, is important not to loose the contact with your mate, but often it happens when you are focused on your pace, battling for positions or descending a technical section, you simply can loose her/him without intention.
is there already any app that can handle this situation?