KUALA LUMPUR: Track cyclist Shah Firdaus Sahrom is gearing up for a hectic schedule, starting with the World Championships in Ballerup, Denmark, from Oct 16-20.
Following the Ballerup event, the Muar-born rider will perform Umrah with his parents for 10 days in Saudi Arabia before returning to Europe for the Track Champions League (TCL) series from Nov 23-Dec 7.
The TCL series will feature four legs, beginning in Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, France, on Nov 23, followed by two back-to-back stops in Apeldoorn, the Netherlands, on Nov 29 and Nov 30, and culminating with the Grand Final in London on Dec 6-7.
Shah admitted he wasn't expecting an invite to the TCL and couldn't refuse the opportunity after turning down a chance to compete in 2022 due to family matters.
"It will be a hectic few months for me, with competitions lined up every month until February next year.
"Previously, we struggled to get into competitions, but now we have back-to-back events, leaving me with less time for training," said Shah.
"I had already confirmed my 10-day Umrah trip when the TCL invitation came through. I didn't want to decline it again, as it'll be my first experience after missing out in 2022.
"I'll use the TCL to prepare for the competitions in January and February.
"We'll be competing in several UCI Class 1 races and the Asian Championships (ACC) during that time. We just have to work with what's in front of us."
Looking ahead to the assignment in Ballerup, the 28-year-old admits it will be a tough challenge as he is still recovering from a back injury.
His brother, Ridwan, along with Nurul Izzah Izzati Asri and Anis Amira Rosidi, will complete the Malaysian team at the World Championships.
Both Shah and Ridwan are aiming to follow in the footsteps of their senior, Azizulhasni Awang, the only Malaysian to have raced in the keirin or sprint final at the World Championships.
Azizulhasni reached the World Championship podium seven times, including a gold medal win in 2017.
"Honestly, I'm not in peak condition but will give it my all. We know some big names won't be there, but this is the World Championships, and the standard will still be very high," added Shah, who crashed out while in the bronze medal position in the keirin final at this year's Paris Olympics.