Harrif hits the mark at Alanya Castle Criterium

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian road cycling great Harrif Saleh proved he remains a force after securing a commendable second place finish at the International Alanya Castle Criterium in Turkiye today (Feb 2).

Ramazan Yilmaz from Konya Buyuksehir Belediye Spor hit the line first ahead of Harrif while former Team Sapura Cycling rider Ahmet Orken, now riding for Spor Toto Continental, completed the podium.

The 25-lap race covered a total distance of 42.5 kilometres around Alanya city, featuring a number of tricky high-speed corners.

Harrif, who is set to turn 37 this year, rued a mistimed sprint but was nevertheless pleased to finish on the podium for Terengganu Cycling Team (TSG).

"Yesterday (Feb 1) I played the lead-out man for Achik (Wan Abdul Rahman Hamdan) but today he helped place me in a good position to win," said Harrif.

"Unfortunately, I launched my sprint a bit too early and was caught by the Turkish rider (Ramazan) in the last 50m.

"I am still satisfied with the podium finish as I had suffered a crash during the Tour of Sharjah a few weeks ago and injured my leg.

"It still hurts a bit but I am getting better and better with each day."

Abdul Rahman won the Grand Prix of Antalya (UCI1.2) which is also a one-day race. It is the 25-year-old's biggest win to date. He has been tipped to fill the shoes of Harrif in the future.

TSG will next race in the Muscat Classic on Friday but have yet to name their riders for the event.