BY MAGRETH RUZVIDZO
Zimbabwe junior sprinter Clinton Muunga remains optimistic about his career despite having a poor performance at the recently held World Junior Championships in Nairobi, Kenya.
Zimbabwe was represented by Muunga, who took part in 100-metre and 200-metre races as well as Samkeliso Ndebele, who raced in the 200-metre event.
Muunga said the championships helped him a lot in identifying areas that he can improve on after finishing last in both races.
“My goal was to come back with a new personal best time, but then I got injured, it’s quite sad. I’m not happy with how I performed in my first race (100 metres), but besides that I learnt a few things from the competition,” says Muunga.
“I’ve managed to point out my weaknesses and areas I need to work on. I’m planning on going outside and train with athletes from different countries in order to improve myself,” he added
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The 19-year-old sprinter also stressed that lack of adequate training was the major contributing factor to his poor performance as he finished last in his 100-metre race.
“Lack of races affected me the most. Training without testing myself cost me as well,” he said.
“I know if I work hard I’m going to be a pro-athlete someday. That’s my goal and consistency is the key. Till then I won’t stop at anything until I make it.”
Preparations could have been affected by the COVID-19 restrictions, with most athletes and teams barred from training.
Zimbabwe’s performance at the championships was particularly disappointing as it pointed to a bleak future.
Neighbouring countries such as Botswana and South Africa clinched medals.
- Follow Magreth on Twitter @MagrethRuzvidzo