DR, I think that sounds like a decent strategy for running 41:00. What if it turns out you're in good enough shape to run faster than 41:00, can you really hope to make up much time in your final 5k? At what point would you alter your pace? A mile left? Two miles left? Turn off your targeting computer. Use the Force!

Here’s something Joe and I were just discussing. Considering most of you have at least seen the course, perhaps you can offer insight. Where can we reasonably expect water tables to be on the course? I just looked at the course map, and I can see a table probably going on mile 1-1.5 or so. However, the course appears to go scenic after that. DR mentioned a solid chunk not even having a shoulder for runners, so I can’t see a table there. Also, I don’t think they would put a table along Rte 5, due to traffic. Finally, I don’t remember a second water table as you make a turn and (I think) get back along the 5K course. Is it possible that there will be one water table near the beginning, and that’s all? I wouldn’t be concerned about this, but the warmer weather could be an issue considering I/we have had several days of running in the lower-to-mid 40s in recent days.

If there is a water mark at the 2 mile mark I may skip it, especially if its at McKays which would put it more like the 1.5 mile mark (I think, I drive the course once more to figure this stuff out more closely).

could you post the link of the course you are referring to.

I don't have any idea where water stations might be. I do know the 10K was originally as that map shows; later they rerouted it around the college to avoid the intersection.

By mapmyrun.com's reckoning, there's a distinct difference. College Circle is 0.37 miles long, whereas running from its Rt. 5 junction to its Hollywood Rd. junction (by continuing up the hill and turning right at the intersection) is 0.29 miles. Thus the course might actually be 6.33 miles long.

I know Liza says she certified the original course is 10K, and doesn't believe it is the same distance after they added the detour. Just got back from a long day in DC area; need to catch a bit of sleep. Have great races tomorrow all.

I do believe there is a 5k upcoming in Hughesville on Saturday, May 30th. The registration information is not yet clear on exactly how runners are being scored, but there is a team entry. I am intrigued as to whether prizes go along with that or if it is simply a mechanism for registering multiple people at a group rate. Here is a flyer for the race: http://www.cbrcmd.org/docs/youth_power_5k_challenge.pdf At the rate I'm going, I will not run a 5k until later this fall. I would like to do one during the summer so that it can help me estimate some goals for the fall, so May 30th seems like as good of a tentative day as any.