Hello LetsRun. I have run XC in high school for 3 years and I have a PR of 16:50. I believe myself to be a strength-based runner, since I ran a half-marathon in 1:20. My passion is running lots of miles and racing longer distances, and 5K races just seem too short for my talent.
I love running high mileage, and this summer I went from 55 mpw to 70 with a peak of 75. My coach wants me to reduce my mileage but I find it very difficult to do so. I want to run even more miles in the near future but I still need to complete my senior XC season.
I know I could always work on my 5K/10K speed to improve my marathon but I wish to do so without reducing mileage. The point is, I like running on my own with my own mileage, and making my own workouts. I'm not sure if I would enjoy collegiate running, because I would maybe enjoy being self-coached at the longer distances more. What option would most likely be best for me -- and is it worth it to join a college team?