With a number of talented sprinters currently on the rise, Malaysian road cycling great Harrif Saleh is optimistic about the future of Malaysian cycling.
Harrif is widely seen as the nation’s most successful road cyclist having won three Petronas Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL) stages and amassing many other international race wins throughout his distinguished career.
While the 36-year-old has no plans of retiring any time soon, Harrif said he is happy to see younger riders showing good results in recent seasons which highlights their potential.
“We can see now that our younger riders have raised their game and are able to compete with the top riders,” said Harrif during this year’s Petronas Le Tour de Langkawi.
“Riders such as Izzat Hilmi Abdul Jalil (Malaysia Pro Cycling), Zulhelmi Zainal (Nusantara Cycling Team) and Elmi Jumari (Malaysia national team) have all shown good potential.
“I am optimistic they will continue to improve as they gain more races under their belts.
“I hope all our Malaysian sprinters will be able to fight for the podium, especially in Petronas Le Tour de Langkawi.”
Despite attracting interest from foreign teams throughout his career, Harrif has spent almost his entire career racing for Terengganu Cycling Team, better known as TSG.
Harrif, who is from Kampung Ladang, Kuala Terengganu, has always remained grounded despite his success and is immensely popular with Malaysian fans.
