Relief for Malaysian camp as Azizulhasni declares he's fit to race

THE Malaysian contingent heaved a sigh of relief yesterday when star cyclist Azizulhasni Awang declared himself fit to race.

Azizulhasni was on the track and showed little or no effect of the injury he suffered in the collision during a race in Cologne last Sunday.

Azizul said the injury to his hand was superficial and would not affect his performance.
'I did have some misgivings as I thought my Olympic dream was over when I fell. There were some splinters in my hand but they have been removed and it is fine now. I was able to train fully on Wednesday and there's nothing to worry about,' he said.

But team manager Datuk Naim Mohamed is not taking any chances and has decided to monitor the rider's injury closely.

'It may be superficial but we need to ensure there is no infection as that can lead to fever. That's why we will make sure Azizul is all right and be able to race with a clear mind,' he said.
Naim also said that they have yet to make a final decision on whether Azizul would take part in two events or just concentrate on the keirin.

'Josiah Ng is also training hard but this is a strategic decision which the coach will make on Aug 1. We are not in any hurry to name the riders for the events yet. Azizul is definitely down for the keirin. But the sprint is another matter.

'That starts on Aug 4, and whoever we pick will be ready for the challenge,' he said.



THE STAR