PETALING JAYA, July 15 — While all signs point to shifting the national track team abroad, former cyclists called for more velodromes in Malaysia.
Former SEA Games gold medallist Shaharudin Jaffar, who delivered Malaysia’s maiden gold in the sport in 1965, expressed his sadness Malaysia’s only operating velodrome in Cheras will soon make way for development.
“I was optimistic Malaysia could go far in cycling so I came out with the velodrome idea to develop the sport 40 years ago,” said the 75-year-old.
“But I’m saddened after all these years, we only have two. We need more, one in each zone — northern, southern, eastern and West Malaysia.”
Yesterday, Mailsport reported National Sports Council had identified the Rakyat Velodrome in Ipoh as a potential training venue to replace the soon-to-be-demolished KL Velodrome.
However, the Ipoh facility is in a terrible condition while the new velodrome in Nilai is only expected to be ready for the 2017 SEA Games.
“When things like these occur, we don’t know what to think,” Shaharudin said.
He also suggested Kuala Lumpur City Hall plead to the land’s new owners to delay development so the team can continue training in Cheras.
Another former rider Nor Azian Alias echoed Shaharudin’s calls.
“State riders face difficulties in championships now because they don’t have much velodrome experience. Training is usually on the road.
“Some riders even pick up injuries because they aren’t used to the venue. This could affect their future performances,” said the national women’s team assistant coach.
National cyclist Ju Pha Som Net said having more venues would also “reduce the need to train overseas which will in turn save cost”.
The 22-year-old is ranked third in Asia in women’s omnium and tipped to join Azizulhasni Awang and Fatehah Mustapa in a three-member cast at Olympics in Rio de Janeiro next year.
Five out of the 18 Olympic slots are reserved for Asian riders.
