Got it, so basically a 5k is like running 12 laps on a track whereas the CC5K is like running 11. I guess if that bothers some for whatever reason that's fine. I just know there are not many people out there that can run the full 11, and if you do, it's a heck of a workout.
I was just offering some info and encouragement to a poster
But if you want to get technical.... It actually is a significant distance in such a short race. For instance, you state your time was 28 min... In a true 5k, it would have been around 30. Peace...
BTW... I am a marathon runner who is very technical with my runs, so I do the loop several times.