Former track cyclist Josiah to open academy next month

Alternative way: Josiah Ng’s cycling academy in Kota Damansara will offer a new training concept via e-cycling.

PETALING JAYA: Former national cyclist Josiah Ng is not going to let rejection bring him down as he looks to giving back to the sport he loves.

Josiah was initially touted for a coaching position with Malaysia’s national set-up following his exploits with Thailand at the Indonesia Asian Games last year, where he trained Australia-born Jai Angsuthasawit to reach the men’s keirin final.

Instead of welcoming Josiah with open arms, the National Sports Council (NSC) had rejected his service.

Undeterred, Josiah said he had found a different way to contribute to Malaysian cycling – by setting up a cycling academy in Kota Damansara next month.

“I’ve served the country as an athlete for 15 years and I wanted to contribute as a coach, but I was told that my services were not needed at the high-performance level,” said Josiah, who quit the national team three years ago before trying out coaching last February.

“There were offers outside but I wanted to give back to Malaysian cycling. I’m OK with the rejection.

“I’ll just focus on contributing at the grassroots level from the private sector. I think there’s no clear pathway for a young cyclist to reach the top, and I believe I can help in this area with my expertise.

“There’s a need to revive the sporting culture in Malaysia. The initiative from the government has not been consistent at the grassroots level. I see a vacuum at the lower level and I’m ready to explore it.”

The 39-year-old, who also engages in talks and cycling workshops via his company Sports Empowered, said e-cycling was an attractive way to get youngsters to have a healthy lifestyle.

“We’ll have the e-cycling concept at the academy, where trainee can train and compete online with anyone in the world, there are also so many routes available,” said the former Olympic Games finalist and World Cup overall winner.

“I believe this will attract the younger generation. We’re looking at approaching private schools, there are plans to have an inter-school league as well,” added Josiah.