KUALA LUMPUR: The health of former world champion Azizulhasni Awang is being closely monitored as the cyclist attempts to win the elusive Olympic gold medal for Malaysia.
The Pocket Rocketman, who will be making his fifth Olympic appearance in Paris, is currently training with Shah Firdaus Sahrom, Nurul Izzah Izzati Asri in Mallorca, Spain, under the watchful eyes of national track coach John Beasley.
The National Sports Institute (NSI) has enlisted heart specialist Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Jeswant Dillon to monitor Azizulhasni at the Paris Olympics.
The 36-year-old underwent open heart surgery in 2022 to correct a coronary artery anomaly which he had since birth. He made a full recovery and returned to the track.
The 2020 Tokyo Olympic silver medallist suffered another setback due to pericarditis during the Adelaide leg of the Nations Cup in February but still managed to win the keirin gold medal.
Beasley said they are keeping a close watch not only on Azizulhasni, but on the other riders as well.
"I'm really happy with the way it is all coming together. We take very good care of Azizul, he is in good health, and we evaluate him on a daily basis," said the Australian.
"I believe Shah should be fine too, his physical progression has come along very nicely, and along with that, his confidence. Izzah is just getting better and better every day with every session. Technically, she is also progressing, which is great."
NSI chief executive officer Ahmad Faedzal Ramli said Azizul is in his best shape for the Paris Games.
"Since Azizul's surgery two years ago, a lot of medical checks and assessments were done before he returned to cycling. I believe he's pretty much ready to race," said Faedzal.
"He's in the best mood for the Olympics, and has received the new WX-R Vorteq. As a precaution, Dr Jeffrey will be with the cycling team to monitor Azizul's health condition."