Men's 5,000 Preview

For some reason the men's 5K was scheduled for the day after the 10K, making doubling very difficult. Last night's 10K winner Abdi Abdirahman is entered, as are fellow doublers Meb Keflezigi, Chris Graff, Chad Johnson, Matt Downin and Alan Culpepper. Hard to say who will actually run and if anyone will be a factor. Cooler conditions Friday could help. Don't look for Meb to double back, as he's reportedly suffering Achilles problems.

The real battle should be between Bob Kennedy and Adam Goucher in a repeat of their memorable duel here two years ago, where Goucher came of age by outkicking the American Record holder. In the 3000 at the Peregrine Systems U.S. Open two weeks ago, Kennedy went with the leaders, which is his wont, while Goucher ran a more conservative race, kicking hard to nip BK at the line. Both are back to full fitness and shoulde be ready to roll. Look for Bob to push the pace mid-race, trying to chip away at Goucher's finish. Pre would love it.

My pick for third is Matt Lane, recent graduate of William and Mary. Although only 4th in the NCAA 5K, Lane ran a strong 7:48.02 at Stanford. Lane doesn't have great closing speed off a slow pace, but the battle between Kennedy and Goucher should speed up things so that Lane can pull away from the other challengers. Lane doesn't have a World Champs qualifier, but has been picked up by Kim McDonald and so should get in a race in Europe that would pull him along to a fast time.

If Abdi doubles back, he could be dangerous. He's obviously fit and ran some good doubles while at Arizona.

Brad Hauser has been slightly injured as of late and is a bit off form. I would be surprised if Culpepper doubles back. Those with the World Champs qualifying standard (13:25.0): Goucher, Kennedy, Nick Rogers, Meb Keflezighi.
/Dan Lilot/