Cycling

Azizulhasni treats fans to another trademark victory at national meet [NSTTV]

KUALA LUMPUR: Former world keirin champion Azizulhasni Awang proved that he remains unbeatable in his pet event domestically after brushing-off some strong challenges from his juniors to win gold at the National Championships in Nilai.

Azizulhasni, 36, left it late before overtaking brothers Shah Firdaus, 29, and Ridwan Sahrom, 23, to hit the line first in the men's elite keirin final at the National Velodrome.

Shah and Ridwan, both representing Johor, settled for silver and bronze.

Azizulhasni, who won the individual sprint gold yesterday, said it was a nice way to end what may have been his final appearance at the national meet.

The Dungun-born has indicated that he may not compete beyond the Paris Olympics.

"Shah started his long sprint three laps out and was followed closely by Ridwan," said Azizulhasni.

"I had to wait to be in the right position before I chased them down and I managed to reel them in just in time.

"I am happy to finish racing here without any incidents, this is important as we are currently preparing for Paris and will next head to Europe for a training camp.

"This is probably my last appearance at the National Championships so I am happy to be able to put on a show for the fans that came today."

Terengganu's Harrif Saleh, better know for his exploits on the road with TSG, crossed the line fourth.

The women's elite keirin saw no surprises either as Paris-bound Izzah Izzati Asri (Kedah) claimed the gold with Amber Yong (Selangor) and Aliana Azizan (Penang) settling for silver and bronze.

Johor duo Ahmad Danial Haiqal Ahmad Rifaiee and Nur Alyssa Mohd Farid won the men's and women's junior keirin gold medals.

The individual pursuit and time trial events will be held on the final day of the competition tomorrow.

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