KUALA LUMPUR – Federal Territories have approved young hurdler Muhammad Fiross Mohd Faizal’s participation in the World Athletics U20 Championships in Lima, Peru, in August, despite a scheduling conflict with the Sarawak Sukma.
Federal Territories Sports Council director Nik Ahmad Zahiruddin Nik Saleh said the body would prioritise Fiross’ preparation for the international meet rather than forcing the Putrajaya-born athlete into a difficult decision.
Fiross secured his World U20s spot at the Philippine Athletics Championships in May with a time of 13.82sec, surpassing the qualification mark of 14.20sec.
“For Fiross, who is only 18-years-old, there is still a chance for him to compete in future Sukma,” Nik Ahmad told Scoop.
“The World U20 Championships come around only once, and for us, there is no issue with him participating in the meet.
“We also have more senior athletes who can be relied upon for the 110m hurdles.”
Fiross’ name remains on the Federal Territories contingent’s longlist for the Sarawak Sukma, with further discussions about his status to be held with the Federal Territories Sports Association.
In April, the Malaysia Athletics Federation granted athletes qualified for Peru the freedom to choose between representing their state at Sukma or participating in the World U20 Championships.
The Sarawak Sukma is scheduled for August 17-24, while the World U20s will take place from August 27-31.
This presents a challenge for athletes qualified for both events within a relatively short time frame.
In addition to Fiross, six other Malaysian athletes have merited their places in the World U20 Championships: Ng Tak Sing in the high jump, Hanssen Yap Soon Fu in the 100m, Pengiran Aidil Auf Hajam and Muhammad Sayyid Amin Roslan in the 200m, as well as Mohd Aiman Najmi and Khalil Helmi in the 400m. – June 27, 2024