Azeem aims to deliver in last meet on home turf

PETALING JAYA: National sprinter Mohd Azeem Fahmi is determined to clock a strong time at the Southeastern Conference Championships from May 14-16 – his final outing at Auburn University.

The meet, held at his home track, carries added meaning as the 22-year-old leads the sprint squad as captain.

“It’s my last SEC Championships and being on home turf makes it even more special. I’m aiming to deliver,” he said.

The 22-year-old Azeem heads into the meet in confident form after a promising run at the East Coast Relays, where he finished fourth in 10.08s, though the time was wind-assisted.

Based on legal conditions, it would have been around 10.22s – close to his season’s best.

Azeem believes he is in peak condition heading into the championship phase.

“I know I’m in great shape to run fast. Now it’s about taking care of myself and peaking at the right time,” he said. “So far, there’s no pressure on results. We just need to stay consistent and hope for good conditions. I believe we can produce something special.”

His current season’s best stands at 10.33s, recorded at the Yellow Jacket Invitational in March.

Azeem, who holds the national 100m record of 10.09s set at the World Junior Championships 2022 in Cali, Colombia, is also preparing to graduate next month.

“Auburn is home for me. It’s not just the place, but the people, especially my training group. I’ve learned so much over the past three and a half years,” he said.

“I’m beyond grateful to my teammates and coaches, especially Coach Ken (Harnden) and his wife, who have supported me since day one. Their guidance has shaped me and helped me develop a better mindset.”