‘MOST COVETED’ GOLD RETURNS
Nur Aiman helps Malaysia regain cycling title after seven years
THE “mother of all gold medals” in Sea Games cycling has finally returned to Malaysia after seven years on the road, thanks to Nur Aiman Zariff. With the support of his teammates, cyclist Aiman Zariff won the men’s road race in Hoa Binh yesterday.
Malaysia had last won the road race event at the 2015 Singapore edition through Harrif Saleh.
It was a fulfilling affair as the national riders had failed in the recent criterium event.
However, it was not an easy ride for Aiman Zariff in the 162.2km race as he was up against not only strong riders from Indonesia and Thailand but the lashing rain.
Aiman Zariff emerged victorious in three hours, 48 minutes and 22 seconds after out-sprinting three other riders. They were in the same breakaway group as him.
Indonesia’s Aiman Cahyadi and Thailand’s Navuti Liphongyu claimed the silver and the bronze. Singapore’s Yeo Boon Kiak, who was the other rider in the breakaway group, came in fourth (same time).
Akmal Hakim Zakaria crossed the line sixth (+2:55s).
Aiman Zariff also had the support of teammates Nur Amirull Fakhruddin Mazuki, Nur Aiman Rosli and Zawawi Azman during the race.
National assistant coach Sayuti Zahit praised the riders for their teamwork and strong understanding.
“We are incredibly happy and grateful that the ‘mother of all gold medals’ in cycling has returned to Malaysia,” said an elated Sayuti.
“There were several attacks during the first two loops (of the route), but we always had riders up there. Our riders showed great teamwork and understanding.
“One of the attacks finally stuck in the third loop, and we had Aiman Zariff in the breakaway group.
“We knew that Aiman Zariff had a good chance of winning the gold because of his sprinting ability.
“We were, however, cautious as we knew Thailand were attempting to catch the breakaway group.
“The group was able to reach the finish without getting caught. Aiman Zariff was in a strong position heading into the finishing section and managed to sprint to the gold.”
The women’s road race will be held today. Malaysia is aiming for a medal in the team category.