PETALING JAYA: Track cycling icon Azizulhasni Awang has warned that Malaysia would have a huge challenge finding another coach to replace John Beasley should the latter decide to leave.
The two-time Olympic medallist Azizul said Beasley has played a huge role in transforming Malaysia into a world-class track cycling nation over the years.
"If John is leaving, our cycling programme could be heading down a difficult path," said Azizul.
"He is the man who helped transform Malaysian cycling from virtually nothing into a world-class force.
"Malaysia will have a huge challenge finding another coach like John.
"He is not only exceptional in coaching, planning and athlete development but he also brings a warm, family-oriented approach that has earned the respect and trust of so many riders."
Beasley has guided Malaysia for two decades now, first as the national track cycling team head coach (sprints) and since last year as the technical director.
The Australian, however, has indicated that he does not want to continue beyond next year as he was fed up with dealing with politics, red tape and lack of grassroots infrastructure within Malaysian cycling.
Azizul added that Beasley had always remained loyal to Malaysia despite receiving various offers to coach other countries over the years.
"For years, he received offers from other countries, yet he remained loyal to Malaysia," said Azizul.
"In fact, he even left behind his family’s cycling business (Beasley Cycles) in Melbourne, a business that had been running for more than 100 years because he wants to focus on developing the sport here.
"After investing so much of himself into the program, it is understandable that he would feel disappointed when things do not go according to plan.
"Having to deal with internal politics, resistance from certain local coaches who wanted him removed and an environment that may not fully support high-performance ambitions would be frustrating for anyone.
"John has always been focused on performance, excellence, and long-term development.
"If he decides to move on, it would not be surprising if he chooses to work in a place with a stronger high performance culture and a more supportive environment.
"If he leaves, Malaysian cycling will not just be losing a coach, it will be losing a leader who played a major role in putting our country on the world stage.
"Good luck to those who believe they can do better."
Beasley began his work for Malaysia by coaching Josiah Ng in the mid-2000s followed by many other outstanding riders including Rizal Tisin, Fatehah Mustapa, Mohd Shah Firdaus Sahrom, Nurul Izzah Izzati Mohd Asri as well as Azizul.
