I'm an old (32),out of shape post grad, returning to grad school at Yale. I'm trying to get into good (sub 15:30) 5K shape with the hope of running a marathon in 2003. Should I try to train with the fall XC guys, or should I put in a solid fall of distance and try to work with the gang in the winter. I've been running about 30 miles a week for the last two months. Any thoughts?
I say go for it now. There is no time like the present! The sooner you go and start working with the team then improvement will quickley follow! With a base of 30miles a week you may find it hard int the begining when your put up against guys who train 60-100 mpw. But this might help motivate you as well. Whatever you do, don't be intimidated by the other guys on the team, you'll get there. Just keep your main goal in sight and think about it everytime you get out there and lace up your shoes.
good luck!.
I spoke to Dan Ireland the xc coach at Yale about your situation. He suggested wearing a Parliment style wig to a gallowalkers workout with the Union Jack pasted on your back. When they chase you out of town you can get shelter at the nearest Anglican church to contemplate your statement about Kenyans riding bicycles. We left you guys during the Revolutionary War and the Kenyans got rid of you in the Mau Mau,(we thought).
I'd consider hopping in with the harriers, even if you don't do it on the speed or race days. You could still build up your base that way, and have company while you're doing it.
For many, cross country is a mileage build up period in preparation for track, anyway.
I think you should train on your own until you are within 1 minute to 30 seconds of running your goal 5k (e.g. sub 16:20 5k). I'm a 31 year old former D-1 1500 meter runner who four years ago decided to start running again. After a few months of base training I joined a running club and tried running with the "fast group" (comprised primarily of former collegians like myself) during some hill intervals. I fell behind almost immediatedly and got smoked. Perhaps you, like most people I competed against in college, are far more talented than I am and can get into shape very quickly. But for your self esteem and long term progression, I recommend being patient and not training with the Cross team until you are in decent shape. Good luck.