Discussion: Consistent with expectations

World Masters Association considers a 20:03 to be regionally competitive for a 5K/60year-old (I would interpret a combined 11K runners as a "regional" group, even if each race was clearly local). National class is 17:49, which would have won any of the STL or CHI races as one would expect. Keep in mind, the really good masters 5K'ers are going to be peaking for USTA age graded championships in July. Any race they do this time of year is just to stay fresh.

I know...I can think of at least a half dozen runners in my age group even in STL that could whip my a**, like you said they are probably wisely picking their races. Age graded score is only 75%, actually dipping slightly in the last couple of years. But looking at the next level or two up keeps me motivated. Maybe a combination of good training and getting older would at least qualify me for some of those regional masters meets, fun to try.

You're already plenty good enough to "qualify." Most you just show up for and even the others (National Senior Games, US Masters Championships, etc.) are pretty easy to get into. Of course, if one was to try to win one of those races, that's a whole 'nuther thing.