Irfan seeks lift before Asian medal charge

PETALING JAYA: National discus thrower Irfan Shamsuddin (pic) is looking to use the Commonwealth Games as a springboard for a medal charge at the Asian Games later this year.

“My target for the Asian Games this year is to win a medal,” said the 30-year-old.

“I am confident that this target is achievable despite the tough challenge, especially from China, who hold the top ranking among the competing athletes.

“The difference between our personal bests is not very far off, so the chance to deliver my best performance and win medal is not impossible.

“I am working hard towards that and won’t pay attention to the challenges posed by others.

“My focus is solely on improving my current distance, and I believe I have the chance to achieve a medal.”

Irfan arrives at the Commonwealth Games in strong form after breaking his own national record with a throw of 62.87m at the Nemzetkozi Atletikai Balatkn Bajnoksag meet in Veszprem, Hungary, on June 20.

He will face stiff competition in Glasgow, with Australia’s Matthew Denny (74.78m), the defending champion and England’s Lawrence Okoye (71.88m), who improved his own national mark earlier this year, headlining the men’s discus field.

Home crowds will also be cheering on Scotland’s Nick Percy (67.86m), who is competing at his third Commonwealth Games.

Qualifying is scheduled for Friday, with the final set for Saturday at Scotstoun Stadium in Glasgow.