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VANDERBIJLPARK. - Norman Dlomo jetted out of the country on Monday oozing with confidence that he will bring back silverware from the Beijing Olympic Games, which is currently underway in China.

Dlomo, a Lekoa Athletics Club runner, wrapped up his four weeks training programme in Thabazimbi in Limpopo on Saturday. He was at the Cross Country Championship that was held at the Isak Steyl Stadium on Saturday, where he said that he will compete in the 42km marathon, which also marks the end of the Olympics, on Sunday.

Dlomo, who will make his Olympic-debut on Sunday, told Weekly Sport that he would not put himself under unnecessary pressure after South Africa has so far failed to impress in the games. "I've never been as confident as I am now. I look forward to the Olympics and I will make my presence count come Sunday," says a rather self-assured Dlomo.

When asked why he chose to stay behind in South Africa while his fellow countrymen flew to Beijing, he said, "I have been to Beijing before and I know that the pollution is not good for athletes. Therefore I decided to remain behind in order to prepare myself for my race on home ground. The last time I was there I didn't perform well because of the pollution, but now I don't think I will struggle".

* Another South African runner who is set to carry the hope of the nation is Hendrick Ramaala, who will be competing in the same division as Dlomo. They are the only two South African runners to participate in the 42km marathon.

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