National Women’s Track Cycling Sprint Team on Top of Waiting List for 2024 Paris Olympics

The national women’s track cycling sprint team is on the edge of their seats as they await the possibility of competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics. With the Games set to take place from July 26 to Aug 11, the team is currently at the top of the waiting list, ready to step in if one of the qualified nations pulls out.

According to National Sports Council (NSC) deputy director-general (Sports Development) Jefri Ngadirin, the women’s sprint team is ranked ninth in the Olympics and 11th in the world, making them the first reserve team for the Paris Olympics. Head coach John Beasley has recommended that the team be included in the Fast Track programme under the Road to Gold (RTG) initiative, given their impressive ranking on the world stage.

The national women’s sprint team consists of Nurul Izzah Izzati Mohd Asri, Nurul Aliana Syafika Azizan, and Anis Amira Rosidi. Nurul Izzah has already qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics in the individual keirin and sprint events, along with two national men’s track cyclists, Datuk Mohd Azizulhasni Awang and Muhammad Shah Firdaus Sahrom.

While awaiting approval for Nurul Izzah to be included in the Fast Track programme, Jefri highlighted the importance of the 2028 LA Special Project. This initiative aims to address athletes’ weaknesses and enhance their performance ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

With a focus on improving Nurul Izzah’s muscle mass and power for the keirin event, the NSC is determined to help her reach world-class standards by 2028. The Fast Track Programme has already listed six national athletes, including divers and squash players, who will receive specialized training to elevate their performance on the international stage.

As the national women’s track cycling sprint team eagerly awaits their chance to compete in the Paris Olympics, they continue to train hard and stay prepared for any opportunity that comes their way.