Time To Step Up And Shine, Azizulhasni Tells Teammates

KUALA LUMPUR, April 21 (Bernama) -- National track cycling ace Datuk Mohd Azizulhasni Awang has called on his teammates to step out of their comfort zone and raise their game if they are to shine at the three-day 2026 Track Cycling World Cup at the National Velodrome in Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, from Friday (April 24).

The man nicknamed ‘The Pocket Rocketman’ said that all hopes must not be placed solely on him but on the rest of the national riders as well, adding that this would require them to push their boundaries. 

“Since we are the hosts, I hope all of us will give our best. Not just the best we can, but better than what we have ever achieved,” he said when met recently.

Mohd Azizulhasni also shared his own experience of often competing while not fully fit for the sake of the country.  

“There have been times when I competed despite not feeling well. I would just put it all aside and focus on bringing glory to the country. Many times I competed even when I was injured or not fully recovered… but I always give my best to achieve the best possible result,” he said.

He also advised his teammates to embrace the pressure of competing in world-class events, saying it is a crucial element that can help athletes step out of their comfort zone and grow into more dominant riders on the track.

Reflecting on his career since 2009, he admitted that he had faced intense criticism whenever he failed to excel.

“Previously, each time I did not perform up to expectations, I would be heavily criticised in the newspapers. At first, it hurt, but eventually, it shaped me into who I am today. I want our athletes to be like that… not afraid to step out of their comfort zone and always giving their full commitment,” he said.

He also reminded them to always appreciate the opportunities and support the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) has given them, including training facilities and funding.

-- BERNAMA