Rwanda Athletics federation (RAF) is due to apply for next month’s East and Central Africa Cross Country race to be held on February 24 in Moshi, Tanzania.

The federation Secretary General, Appolinaire Munyangoga told Times Sport yesterday that they will apply to take part in the regional championship so as to enable Rwanda runners get used to competing against the top athletes in the region.

"Applying to take part in this cross country will help in preparing our national athletes get used to regional stars before taking part in the World cross country in Edinburgh (Scotland) in March.

"We were not invited to take part in this event because we are not registered with the regional cross country body. However, we would be seeking to become members as soon as possible," Munyangoga said.

RAF plans to stage one cross country event (dates yet to be confirmed) prior to the Tanzania race aimed at selecting the team, which would travel to Moshi.

Meanwhile, over 160 athletes from ten countries are expected to take part in the Tanzania event. Each country will be represented by 16 runners and two officials.

Runners will compete in 12-km race for males and 8-km for female while the junior below the age of 20 would compete in 8km (boys) and 6km (girls).

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