LTdL25: Mohd Shahrul Returns To National Cycling Squad After Seven-year Hiatus

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 22 (Bernama) -- National road cyclist Mohd Shahrul Mat Amin is set to return to the Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL) this year after last competing in 2018, marking a significant comeback for him in the prestigious race.

To make it even more special, Mohd Shahrul, who will be making his eighth appearance at the LTdL, has also been appointed as team captain and will lead a squad of six cyclists, combining the experience of senior riders with the drive of young cyclists.

The two-time national champion describes his extensive experience as the main asset for leading the team through the eight-stage, 1,244.2-kilometer race, scheduled from September 28 to October 5.

“For me, in a tour race, we will first see how the first stage goes before understanding the overall rhythm. From there, we will know the capabilities of other teams and our chances of trying to win the third or fifth stage (the team's focus).

“Most importantly, your position when you attack or start climbing requires experience. I see our young riders have potential this time; God willing, we can do our best,” he said at the National Squad announcement for LTdL 2025 at the National Sports Council (MSN), Bukit Jalil, here today.

Commenting on his return to the LTdL stage, the 36-year-old former Terengganu Cycling Team (TSG) rider admitted that his passion for cycling never faded, despite not being selected since 2019 and facing challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The cycling career is deeply ingrained in me. After 2018, many other riders competed, and I was not selected. Then came the COVID-19 season which made things even more difficult. From there, I set my mind on returning to ride at LTdL.

“After leaving TSG, I continued cycling. This time, I am more prepared, with the added support of sponsors, including providing me with the best bicycle. So, I contacted the coach and expressed my desire to join the team, not for the name but by going through the process from the beginning,” he said.

He also uses his 13 years of experience with TSG as a guide to maintain his fitness and compete on the main stage again.

Besides Mohd Shahrul, the five other riders strengthening the national road cycling squad are Muhammad Elmi Jumari, Muhammad Ameer Ahmad Kamal, Kee Zhe Yie, Muhammad Iqmal Mohd Zarawi, and Muhammad Yusri Shaari.

As one of the most prestigious races in Asia, LTdL 2025, which holds a 2.ProSeries status in the UCI Asia Tour calendar, has attracted 22 teams from around the world.

LTdL 2025 will pass through all 12 states in Peninsular Malaysia, starting in Langkawi Island on September 28 and concluding at KLCC on October 5.

--BERNAMA