KUALA LUMPUR – National female cyclist Aisyah Zubir will race with a Specialized bicycle – a major American brand – gifted by Malaysia’s prominent businessman Tan Sri Mokhzani Mahathir for the road cycling event at the Paris Olympics starting tomorrow.
Speaking to Scoop from Paris, national coach Amir Mustafa Rusli revealed that Aisyah’s original bike was damaged in an accident during a training session in Brussels, Belgium, last month.
Mokhzani’s support could not have come at a better time. Fortunately, before their trip to Belgium, he had already provided a new bike worth tens of thousands of ringgit to support Aisyah’s upcoming race in Paris.
Event regulations require cyclists to have two bikes as a backup. The National Sports Council (NSC) has provided an additional high-specification bike as a backup for technical issues or damage.
“I didn’t actually expect Tan Sri Mokhzani to step forward with a new bike for Aisyah, as it turns out he has a strong interest in cycling and supports Aisyah’s participation in the Olympics.
“It was a relief when Aisyah’s original bike was damaged. Although it could be repaired, especially the fork, I didn’t want to take any risks given the intensity of the competition. I want Aisyah to at least finish the race.
“Even though she has another new bike from the NSC, which also has high specifications, Aisyah still hasn’t quite adjusted to it despite several attempts. So, we decided to use the bike provided by Tan Sri, and we hope it will allow her to complete the race successfully,” said Amir when contacted.
Aisyah has completed two training sessions on the 158-kilometre race route, which starts and ends at the Eiffel Tower.
Amir added that the route is long and challenging but encourages the Terengganu-born athlete to enjoy the experience, as parts of it are featured in the Tour de France.
“Aisyah has been familiarising herself with the race route for the past two days, though the riders haven’t covered much distance. For us, we had set a realistic target of finishing the race, and it’s crucial that Aisyah enjoys the experience.
“The route has been ridden by some of the world’s best cyclists in the Tour de France,” Amir added.
Aisyah has made history as the first Malaysian female track cyclist to qualify for the Olympics. – August 2, 2024