PETALING JAYA: Young national sprinter Danish Iftikhar Mohd Roslee may have lost out on a medal at the Asian Under-20 Athletics Championships in Hong Kong but he has gained valuable experience on the regional stage.
Yesterday, the 19-year-old clocked 21.32s to finish sixth among a strong field in the 200m final at the National Stadium in Hong Kong.
United Arab Emirates’ Ahmed Ali Quddus won the gold with a time of 20.85s, while China’s Chen Jinxin took silver with 21.12s.
Sri Lanka’s Sadew Wimansa settled for bronze with 21.13s.
Danish had also competed in the men’s 100m final on Thursday, finishing seventh with a time of 10.43s.
However, he had earlier impressed in the semi-finals after clocking 10.38s, his fastest time of the season, to qualify for the final.
Malaysia Athletics praised Danish for his fighting spirit and determination on the Asian stage.
“Congratulations Danish on the effort and fighting spirit displayed on the Asian stage. You are among the country’s best prospects for the future of Malaysian athletics,” said a statement from the organisation.
“Being among the top six athletes in Asia is an achievement to be proud of. Keep working hard and more success may follow in the future.”
Meanwhile, Danish’s compatriot Mohd Sayyid Amin Roslan bowed out in the semi-finals of the men’s 200m after finishing with a time of 21.85s.
Despite the disappointment, Sayyid was encouraged to continue striving for success after giving his best for the country.
“Keep fighting, Sayyid Amin! Do not lose heart because you have given your best for Malaysia on the Asian stage.”
Both Danish and Sayyid will look to bounce back again by helping Malaysia do well in the 4x100m relay before heading home.
