Zhe Yie’s Spanish edge fuels climb for glory in LTdL

PETALING JAYA: Kee Zhe Yie is banking on his brief stint in Spain to boost Malaysia’s challenge in the Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL) from Sept 28-Oct 5.

The 21-year-old had a one-month spell with Spanish club Caja Rural-Alea and despite the short time, was entrusted to compete in eight races, with his last outing coming on Sept 7 at the Andra Mari Sari Nagusia.

Adding to the experience was the team’s base in Pamplona, Navarra, a hilly region that provided him with valuable climbing training.

Malaysia are targeting to emerge as the best Asian team and also to secure the white jersey for the best Asian rider, and Zhe Yie shares the same ambition.

“During my time in Spain I trained more on climbing, and now I am back in Malaysia to compete in LTdL. This year I am determined to focus on the climbing stages. My goal is to get my first climb and I want to try to achieve a stage win and the white jersey,” said Zhe Yie.

Zhe Yie’s return to the national team is also a case of coming full circle, as he made his LTdL debut with Malaysia three years ago under the guidance of Mohd Yusof Nasir.

His strong showing then caught the attention of the local continental outfit, Terengganu Cycling Team (TSG), who quickly signed him up.

Apart from Zhe Yie, the other five riders named in the Malaysian squad for this year’s LTdL are Elmi Jumari, Ameer Ahmad Kamal, Yusri Shaari, Iqmal Mohd Zarawi and team captain Mohd Shahrul Mat Amin.

The 29th edition of the LTdL, which carries 2.ProSeries status on the UCI Asia Tour calendar, will flag off in Langkawi and conclude at KLCC, covering a total distance of 1,244.2km.