Elite runner Elva Dryer edged out a former Olympic roommate by five seconds to win the 2007 Aramco Houston Half Marathon in 1 hour, 11 minutes, 42 seconds. She returned to defend the title in 2008, but dropped out before nine miles. Dryer will again find herself racing along the Elysian Viaduct when she competes in Saturday’s 10K race of the Conoco Phillips Rodeo Run.

The 37-year-old, who lives in Gunnison, Colo., ran in both the 5K and 10K events at the 2004 Olympics in Athens and was the top American finisher in the 10K, placing 19th. She was also the top U.S. finisher at the 2007 ING New York City Marathon, finishing sixth. I spoke with he this week.

Question: Why have you entered the ConocoPhillips Rodeo Run?

Answer: I was looking for a race and a warmer location at sea level, where I can kind of kill two birds with one stone. It’s a good race, I have friends in Houston, and I can use it as a check point. I’m training for the Boston Marathon.

Q: What’s your goal for Boston?

A: I hope to improve my personal best, which is 2:31:48. If I can improve on that I’d be happy.

Q: What’s your target time for this weekend?

A: I don’t have a specific goal time. A lot will depend on the conditions. I’d like to start.......