Omar: Riders united, focused on winning
31/1/2009, NST

MUCH hope has been exhausted upon local followers of the sport, more so with the long wait for victories in Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL), which begins its 14th edition on Feb 9.

But national road manager Omar Saad yesterday stated he has seen enough to promise a real change in fortunes this time around.

Omar, who has seen it all as among the country's cycling greats in the 1960s and 70s, believes he has instilled changed attitudes in both teams under the Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF) this time around.

"One thing we've managed to do with the national team and MCF Continental team this time around is to forge a strong camaraderie," said Omar.

Both teams have spent the past two months together in training camps, including being based in Genting Highlands the past month.

Omar said local fans will see in this edition of LTdL two teams working for one common purpose, which is to go for victory.

"We have 12 riders, that's what they have to remember. And all will work for the same goal," said Omar.

The pressure is mounting on the likes of top sprinter Anuar Manan, whom all eyes will be on come the start of the race in Putrajaya.

"Of course, he knows there's pressure on him because he is the most recognised Malaysian rider. But he isn't bothered by that. He wants to go for victories," said Omar.

Anuar, who is under contract with Iranian outfit Azad University, is in the national squad that includes Trek-Marco Polo duo Loh Sea Keong and Ahmad Haidar Anuawar.

Also in the squad are Zamri Salleh, Ahmad Fallanie Ali and Wan Mohd Najmee Wan Mohamed.

The MCF Continental team will line up Nor Rizuan Zainal, Suhardi Hassan, Faris Abdul Razak, Rauf Nor Misbah, Amir Mustafa Rusli and Akmal Amrun.

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