Why the hell go to a third world country to hopefuly race your absolute best and still only get a 19th place finish? Why not, race a road race in the states, get some speed, confidence, and continue to prep for Novemeber when everyone will be hoping to have their A game in the marathon.
The ultimate goal to legitimize the USA distance running should be at the Olympics. I beleive Ritz, Culp, Goucher, Torres, Abdi, Meb, Sell, HAnson's, ect. ALL have this in mind. A strong marathon in November so that they can have the opportunity to represent the USA WELL against the world in the 2008 Oly marathon.
Be realistic. USA XC is not there yet, but USA marathoners are much closer and with SMART prep may win medals in 2008.