Josiah is now sprint coach of Thailand cycling team

NILAI: You just can’t keep Josiah Ng (pic) away from cycling.

The former Commonwealth Games gold medallist, who retired from the national team three years ago, is now the sprint coach of the Thailand team at the ongoing Asian Track Championships in Nilai.

Josiah said he was game for the new challenge, which allowed him to continue with his passion for the sport.

His appointment last month happened by chance.

“I’ve not been doing anything for the last three months. I took time off to travel,” said Josiah.

“The Thais heard through the social media that I was on my way to Chiangmai and wanted me to help out with the preparation of the national team.

“They had seen what Malaysia had achieved in cycling and they wanted a high performance programme.

“They’ve not given me any contract yet. Maybe, they think that I’m still a rookie in coaching and lack the belief in me. Maybe, I have to prove to them first,” said the 38-year-old, a two-time Olympian.

Josiah added it was a new experience being in charge of the team.

“This stint has been tiring. It really makes me respect what John Beasley (Malaysian coach) and others have gone through. You don’t know how hard it is. It’s 15-16 hours a day, 10 athletes and 20 events to worry about.

“You’re on your toes all day long and then, there are the team debriefs to go through at the end of the day.

“But, I love it, it’s about the passion for the sport and building leadership skills.

“Honestly, I don’t know where my future is after this, but I do hope few nations will see me as an asset.

“Right now, I am happy to see the Thai cyclists set personal best times.”

Josiah had more reasons to feel upbeat as Wachirawit Saenkhamwong came out tops in the men’s junior scratch race on Saturday.