PETALING JAYA – Age is just a number for Olympic bronze medallist track cyclist Azizulhasni Awang.
With Britain’s Chris Hoy riding to the keirin gold at age 36 in London four years ago, it is a good reminder for the Malaysian that another bid in Tokyo 2020 is not out of reach.
“I intend to go for my fourth Olympics outing in Tokyo.
“In my first Olympics in 2008, I finished 10th. In London four years ago, I made the final and ended up sixth.
“Now, I’ve got the bronze.
“I am improving and I will try for the middle spot in the podium in Tokyo,” said Azizul, who added his focus next year will be on completing his university studies.
The 28-year-old deferred his final year of sports science studies at Victoria University in Melbourne for his Olympic exploits.
Azizul will be 32 by the time Tokyo 2020 comes but he is confident of maintaining his competitive edge.
“I don’t see any sign of me getting slower or weaker.
“In fact, I get better and stronger each year,” he added.
Azizul became the country’s first Olympic medallist in track cycling when he romped to the bronze in the keirin final behind Dutchman Matthijs Buchli and Britain’s Jason Kenny in Rio last week.
AFP, Reuters, The Straits Times
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