Datuk Mohd Azizulhasni Awang, the renowned national track cycling champion known as "The Pocket Rocketman," has voiced his disappointment with the National Sports Council (MSN) for failing to provide a comprehensive support system in Malaysia as he prepares for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Despite a year of discussions with MSN before his return from training in Melbourne, Australia, no satisfactory solution has been found. Mohd Azizulhasni emphasizes the importance of a world-class support system that matches or surpasses what he experienced in Melbourne.
Unfulfilled Promises and Disappointing Responses:
Mohd Azizulhasni's return to Malaysia was accompanied by high hopes for a complete and world-class support system, but he has found the reality to be quite different. Multiple discussions and meetings with his representatives have taken place, amounting to more than 10 encounters. Unfortunately, the responses received so far have been disappointing, leaving him frustrated and questioning the professionalism within the high-performance sports arena. He shared his grievances on his official Facebook page, expressing his dissatisfaction with the prolonged uncertainty surrounding his preparations.
A Desire for Equivalent Support:
The track cycling champion emphasizes that his decision to return home is not the issue, as long as the support system in Malaysia is equivalent to or better than what he experienced in Melbourne. However, the lack of progress and unfulfilled promises have left him contemplating a return to Melbourne for training. With just over a year remaining before the 2024 Olympic Games, Mohd Azizulhasni believes that training in Melbourne would be more effective and free from distractions, including sports politics. He suggests training in peace there and returning to Malaysia only for specific training camps or practices with the national team, mirroring the approach followed by European athletes in various sports.
Read his full statement below:
Disappointment with MSN's Lax Attitude:
Mohd Azizulhasni also expresses disappointment with certain individuals within the National Sports Council who have displayed a lax attitude regarding the promises made to him. Their inaction and failure to address the issues have exacerbated his frustration, prompting him to escalate the matter to the Youth and Sports Ministry and the Road to Gold Programme Committee. By involving higher authorities, he hopes to ensure that the necessary actions are taken to rectify the situation and provide the support he requires for optimal Olympic preparation.
Aiming for Olympic Success:
As a decorated athlete who clinched the Keirin Track Cycling World Championship title in 2017, Mohd Azizulhasni's dedication and pursuit of excellence are undeniable. With his sights set on the 2024 Olympic Games, his primary focus is to have an ideal training environment that maximizes his potential for success. By highlighting the shortcomings in the current support system and seeking resolution, he aims to create the best conditions for his training and performance on the world stage.
Conclusion:
Datuk Mohd Azizulhasni Awang's disappointment with the National Sports Council's failure to provide a complete support system for his Olympic preparations is a matter that deserves attention. As a national track cycling champion, his concerns reflect the importance of providing world-class support to elite athletes striving for excellence on the global stage. It is crucial for relevant authorities to address his grievances and work towards fulfilling the promises made to him. By doing so, they can ensure that Malaysia's athletes receive the support they need to shine at the 2024 Olympic Games and beyond.
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