Maybe some info here -
http://www.runningroom.com/discussion/
A nifty running calculator -
http://www.mcmillanrunning.com/Runni...calculator.htm
Try some hills training - run up a 400m hill with just a slight grade, then walk down, repeat. Interval training is supposed to help your time also.
As for me, I just started running last summer and did a couple 10k's, and a half marathon. I am signed up for a marathon in March and May, and will do the Sun Run in April. I don't really consider myself a runner... I just like to do these events as a way to challenge myself outside the gym. I much prefer lifting weights.