Kara Goucher

The 2008 Olympian broke away from Katie McGregor to set a course record in the 10-mile race.

By RACHEL BLOUNT, Star Tribune

Last update: October 5, 2008 - 11:51 PM

At the first fluid station along the TC 10 Mile course, Kara Goucher snatched up a cup -- along with a few strides on Katie McGregor. The two favorites ran together for the opening three miles Sunday, and when Goucher edged ahead, she expected McGregor to come right up with her.

It didn't happen that way. That blew up the game plan that coach Alberto Salazar had mapped for Goucher, but it didn't matter as she won the U.S. women's 10-mile title in 53 minutes, 16 seconds. McGregor could not break out of a sluggish rhythm and finished second in 55:04, with Kelly Liljeblad third in 57:06.