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Ellina Mhlanga Sports Reporter
ZIMBABWE’S representatives at the just-ended Africa Cross-Country Championships, Jacob Mugomeri and Olivia Chitate, failed to make a mark in Cameroon over the weekend.

Mugomeri finished on position 23 in 29 minutes 23 seconds in the senior men while Chitate settled for position 20 in a time of 35 minutes 30 seconds in the women’s race.

“I think we need to train harder because when we think we have reached our best, they (other Africans athletes) will be a step ahead of us,” said Chitate.

“I think we need more time to prepare. We need to have a plan on how we can prepare for such events and come up with targets like what we do for the the Olympics.

“That’s what is needed for this kind of competition.” Chitate said although she was disappointed with her overall position, she was satisfied with her time.

“It was tough in Cameroon. I was disappointed with the performance because I had high expectations. I was looking for a much better performance.

“I thought I had done all I needed to do and was strong enough to compete in the event but I realised that the other athletes were even (streets) ahead of me.

“The rules have also changed as we are now running 10km so in terms of time it was not bad but I am disappointed with the position,” Chitate said.