Shah Firdaus and Farina emerge as new cycling stars

THE curtain came down on track cycling on Sunday but two new stars – Muhd Shah Firdaus Sahrom and Farina Shawati Mohd Adnan have emerged from the scene.

The 22-year-old Shah Firdaus sent the Malaysian cycling fraternity into a frenzy after he defeated world champion Matt Glaetzer of Australia en route to the semi-finals of the men’s sprint.

He took part in a total four events – pushing himself beyond the limit.

His determination and willpower augurs well for the cycling team as they aim to dominate at the Asian Games in August in Indonesia.

Together with his senior and mentor Azizulhasni Awang, they can be a force to be reckoned with.

Shah Firdaus said his Commonwealth Games exposure had given him the confidence to reach for the stars.

“I can stand tall with the rest of the top cyclists from Europe – I’ve the confidence now,” he said.

“There is room for improvement and I’m looking forward to the Asian Games.”

The 19-year-old Farina was over the moon despite finishing fourth in the women’s keirin. She ended her campaign better than her senior Fatehah Mustapa.

“I’ve never entered a final in any other international tournament before this. To do so at the competitive Commonwealth Games is great,” said Farina.

“I’m really motivated now. I hope this will be a start for many more good results from me,” added Farina.

Malaysia did not win any medals in cycling but Shah Firdaus and Farina can be counted on to deliver at the 2022 Birmingham Games if they continue their rise.