PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s road cycling veteran Harrif Saleh has described Azizulhasni Awang’s remarkable longevity in track cycling as something that almost defies logic.
Azizul stunned a strong field led by Britain’s sprint world record holder Matthew Richardson to win the keirin at the Perth leg of the UCI Track World Cup last week.
The 38-year-old then followed it up with a rare podium finish in the sprint, beating Israel’s Mikhail Yakovlev to claim the bronze medal.
For Harrif, the achievement was hardly surprising given the mental strength Azizul has shown throughout his career.
Harrif, who retired recently, believes Azizul’s enduring success is built on discipline, resilience and an unwavering passion for the sport.
“I started racing with Azizulhasni from 2003. He has remained active from his teenage years until now,” Harrif wrote on social media.
“Recently he did not even touch his bike for almost five months, but when he came back he was still able to win. Sometimes it feels illogical, but that is Azizulhasni for you. I know very well how spirited and determined he is.
“Advancing age, family commitments and the demands of training are not easy to manage, but he has proven one thing – age is only a number if you have the discipline, determination and desire to keep fighting. Respect for a legend — Pok Joe.”
The two friends know each other well as both hail from Terengganu and rose through the ranks together in track cycling before Harrif later switched to road cycling. Both are 38 this year.
Azizul had taken nearly a year away from competition following his disappointment at the 2024 Paris Olympics before returning to serious training.
Harrif also urged the younger generation of cyclists to learn from veterans like Azizul and avoid becoming complacent.
“The lesson for young riders is to learn from the older generation,” he said.
“Take the initiative to learn and don’t be shy to ask questions. Avoid being in the comfort zone – one win does not make you great.
"It (early wins) is only the start, the tough part is remaining consistent and finishing your career on a positive note," said Harrif, who himself is also a former Asian track champion.
Harrif himself understands longevity, having competed a record 16 times in the Le Tour de Langkawi, where he won three stages – more than any other Malaysian rider.
He also recorded over 20 Union Cycliste Internationale race victories and several SEA Games gold medals before calling time on his own illustrious career at the end of last season.
