New sprint sensation
Firdaus’ feat glitters – even without a medal
YOUNG cyclist Mohd Shah Firdaus Sahrom did not win a medal in the men’s sprint but he still deserves a standing ovation.
The 22-year-old rank outsider tore up the form book when he upstaged world champion Matt Glaetzer of Australia in the second round before losing in the bronze-medal playoff at the Anna Meares Velodrome.
Nothing was expected of him when he qualified last of the final 16 riders but he shocked Glaetzer – who won the keirin gold to the delight of his home fans on Thursday – by bursting past with a right tactical game for a win in the one-race second-round heat.
Bouyed by the stunning win, Firdaus powered his way to beat Commonwealth Games keirin silver medallist Lewis Oliva of Wales 2-0 in the quarter-finals.
He gave defending champion and eventual champion Sam Webster of New Zealand a good fight before losing 0-2 in the semi-finals.
In the bronze-medal playoff, he pushed himself to the limit but lost 2-0 to Australian Jacob Schmid.
Firdaus showed that Malaysia have another rider besides Azizulhasni Awang to bank on and he promised there will be more to come.
“This is the most difficult day of my life ... I’ve nothing left in my tank,” said Firdaus.
“I competed in the team sprint on Thursday, keirin (Friday) and today, the sprint ... it was physically draining. I tried to push until the end but did not have the leg power, it’s a waste I could not end this day with a medal.
“But all is worth it. I was able to beat a world champion, record holder and world-class rider at this big stage ... it’s a great start to my career.
“I wanted to show that I can stand tall with the giants in sprint events. I didn’t want to give in easily to anyone and a win against Glaetzer gave me all the motivation I needed.”
Firdaus said he would work on his stamina and fitness to be a medal contender at the Asian Games in August.
He thanked Azizulhasni for being his mentor.
“I must thank Azizul for pushing juniors like me in the national team.
“We’re now able to challenge the top guns on a big stage like this,” said Firdaus, who’s also training under John Beasley in Melbourne.