KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF) have decided to take a different approach in preparing their cyclists for this year's Vietnam Sea Games.
Despite having several big-name road cyclists, who have a proven track record in major regional competitions, they always falter at the Sea Games.
MNCF president Datuk Abu Samah Abdul Wahab said those attached to professional teams — Terengganu Cycling Team (TSG) and Team Sapura Cycling (TSC) — will forgo the early phase of centralised training with the national squad.
It is for them to continue training with their teams.
MNCF will use riders from TSG and TSC for the criterium and individual time trial events at the Sea Games.
"With this arrangement, the cyclists can continue training with their teams. They, however, will join the national team for the final phase of centralised training," said Abu Samah.
"I think this strategy would work better for the national team in gaining better results at the Sea Games."
Malaysia won 13 gold, 10 silver and three bronze medals in cycling at the 2017 Kuala Lumpur edition.
However, the cycling team returned with only a bronze through Sheikh Muhamad Taslim Shaikh Mohd Raziff (men's BMX freestyle) two years later in the Philippines, after track events were dropped.
MNCF have set a modest target of one gold for the Vietnam Sea Games, with the criterium event being the best prospect.
The federation have 60 riders on their provisional list for the Sea Games. The squad will be trimmed down to 20 riders.
Former rider Datuk Ng Joo Ngan has been appointed as the new national cycling coach. He will be assisted by Mohd Yusof Abdul Nasri.
"Joo Ngan was selected because of his experience as a cyclist. I think he is one of the best local coaches in the country.
"He will officially start in August," he added.