The Malaysian team clocked 44.725 to smash their previous mark of 45.511 to finish seventh in qualifying out of 13 countries on the opening day of track cycling action.
The previous national record was set at the same venue when the team competed in the World Cup last November. However, Mohd Edrus Yunus was the lead rider then.
Last night, it was double Asian champion Azizul who took off from the starting block.
Josiah continued to set the pace before leaving it to anchor rider Rizal and their time gave them a place against World Cup winners France in the knockout rounds.
In the knockout rounds, the Malaysian trio clocked 44.822 while the French team, comprising Gregory Bauge, Mickael Bourgain and Kevin Sireau, stopped the clock at 43.656 to qualify for the gold medal shoot-out.
Britain, led by double world champion Chris Hoy, beat the French team to the gold later.
The British team clocked 43.128 against the French time of 43.651 while Germany (44.014) edged Australia for the bronze (44.022)
Having finished ahead of teams like the United States, China and Russia, the Malaysian trio have achieved what national coach John Beasley targeted for them and it should whet their appetite to go for individual glory now.
The highly exciting keirin event takes place today and 2004 Athens Olympic finalist Josiah, together with Azizul, will be hoping to set up an all-Malaysian final.
Star
No comments:
Post a Comment