KUALA LUMPUR: Muhammad Ridwan Sahrom is facing a significant challenge as he steps in to fill the gap left by Datuk Mohd Azizulhasni Awang’s absence in the sprint event at the upcoming 2025 Asian Track Cycling Championships (ACC).
Ridwan acknowledges the difficulty of the task but remains optimistic, focusing on hard work and training in the lead-up to the event. Despite the pressure, he is hopeful that his performance in upcoming tournaments, including the ASEAN Track Series President’s Cup, will earn him a place in the ACC lineup.
His recent success – winning bronze in the men’s elite sprint event at the ASEAN Track Series President’s Cup 1 – has boosted his confidence.
However, he remains cautious, recognising that sprint events are unpredictable and that anyone could seize the opportunity.
Ridwan’s brother, Muhammad Shah Firdaus, will also be competing in the ACC, while national coach Harnizam Basri is evaluating other riders based on their performances in the ASEAN Track Series events.
Ridwan himself has experience in team events, having secured a silver medal in the team sprint at the 2024 ACC in New Delhi, which he hopes will serve as a strong foundation for his individual performances. With ‘The Pocket Rocketman’ Azizulhasni traditionally dominating the sprint events, Ridwan faces high expectations as he steps up to represent Malaysia in the 2025 championship – BERNAMA