BATU PAHAT: Despite missing out on a dream homecoming at Stage 7, Malaysia Pro Cycling’s Mohd Izzat Hilmi Abdul Halil remains determined to secure a podium finish in the final day of the 30th Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL) on Sunday (Oct 4).
The 31-year-old from Batu Pahat had hoped his bunch sprint skills would lead him to a top-three finish on Saturday.
However, a late breakaway by four riders ahead of the peloton meant he had to settle for 16th place overall with his time of 3’13:06.
Despite the setback, his performance still earned him the title of best local rider on the 158.9km course from Melaka to Batu Pahat.
"I tried chasing them, but they kept their momentum and managed to hold on until the end," said Izzat.
Izzat, who was named the best Asian and local rider during Stage 3 from Sungai Petani to Kuala Kangsar after a fifth-place finish, nearly repeated the feat yesterday.
"I almost claimed the best Asian rider title again, but Hijiri Oda (Aisan Racing Team) cut me off about 50 meters before the finish line."
He remains optimistic that the white jersey for the overall best Asian rider is still within reach.
"In my group, I think the target of the best Asian rider can still be achieved."
"My attempt today was thwarted when I got stuck on the last corner, but the race is not over. There is still one stage left, and anything is possible."
Izzat, who won the best Asean rider title in 2025 (Stage 6) and 2024 (Stage 4), will make his final push for the white jersey in today’s concluding stage from Muar to Putrajaya.
The sprint-heavy 188.3km course is expected to favour his riding style as the peloton will face three sprint zones in Simpang Ampat, Seremban, and Nilai, alongside a Category three King of the Mountains climb at Bukit Mantin.
