Campaign ends on high note

Malaysia's (from front) Amir Mustafa, Mohd Akmal Amrun, Mohd Jasmin Ruslan and Mohd Harrif Saleh won the gold in the 4km Team Pursuit.

MALAYSIAN National Cycling Federation president Abu Samah Wahab received a perfect birthday president yesterday when two of his charges won.

The national 4km pursuit team and Josiah Ng lived up to expectations and added two more gold medals bringing Malaysia's total from the velodrome to four after yesterday's final day of events.

The quartet of Amir Mustafa Rusli, Mohd Jasmin Ruslan, Mohammad Akmal Amrun and Mohd Harrif Saleh put on a brilliant performance to defend the gold in 4:27.910s beating Thailand who returned 4:35.290s.

The Malaysian quartet's time also cracked the Sea Games record of 4:31.50s and the national mark of 4:34.00s.

The team kept their composure despite the boisterous home crowd's cheering.
The withdrawal of one of the Thai riders in the seventh lap also helped the Malaysians but team captain Mohd Jasmin said they just concentrated on clocking a good time.

The Philippines, who finished fourth in 4:50.000s. were later upgraded to third after the Indonesians were disqualified.

In the men's individual sprint, Josiah was pushed by rookie teammate Mohd Azizulhasni Awang but for good reason. They finished 1-2 ahead of Indonesia's Asep Suryaman.

Josiah, 27, said Azizul was really pushing. "I am glad he did," said Josiah.

"I am also happy that there are so many riders in Malaysia now. Before this the pressure was only on my shoulders. Now there are so many riders who share the burden to deliver for Malaysia."

NST