Send athletes overseas for exposure, says Irfan

KUALA LUMPUR: He has been through it and knows the importance and benefits of overseas exposure for national athletes.

Now, South-East Asian discus champion Mohd Irfan Shamsuddin (pic) wants more national athletes to be sent overseas for competitions or training regularly so that they can fully realise their potential and talent.

The 25-year-old, who holds the national discus record at 62.55 metres, urged fellow athletes to be bold in voicing out their needs to national sports associations or the National Sports Council for the sake of their own progress.

He said this included letting the authorities know of their desire to train or compete overseas, as such exposure can bring their performances to the next level.

“Do not just keep them in the country.

“To me, we need to get help (expertise) from foreigners. What we have in the country is good, but we still need their support, ” said Irfan.

“That’s why there is nothing like giving athletes exposure by sending them overseas to train or compete in championships.

The four-time SEA Games champion said he was making this call not out of self-interest but for the common good of athletes.

“I had to appeal to be sent to championships.

“For the sake of sports development, I hope my views will be taken in good faith and there won’t be any backlash, ” he added. — Bernama