SHAH ALAM - Despite stepping back after the Paris 2024 Olympics, Malaysian cycling legend Datuk Mohd Azizulhasni Awang admits that he simply could not stay away from the track for long.
The 37-year-old, who is now transitioning into a full-time professional setup, revealed how the hunger for rigorous training and competition still fuels his daily routine.
"I really could not sit still. Every day when I wake up, I always ask myself what I want to do. Even after months away from cycling, my physical and mental state always reverts to its origin.
"I still wake up early, around 4.30am as usual. If I do not cycle, I go for walks and hit the gym once or twice a week,” he said.
Known affectionately as The Pocket Rocketman, Azizulhasni shared that the post-Olympics period left him in a restless state. The need to keep pushing forward led him to rethink his future, ultimately deciding to continue his cycling journey professionally.
He made the announcement on Saturday, unveiling his plans to compete under his own team, Team Azizul, supported by a tight-knit squad and dedicated sponsors.
While not a large team, Azizulhasni said their commitment and organisation enable him to pursue his career goals effectively. He also continues to work with longtime coach John Beasley and a few personal trainers, supported by a systematic training programme.
"Beasley and I have developed a comprehensive training plan for a period of three months to a year, which we discussed together. The same goes for track training and physical conditioning, which I handle on my own.
"It is only when a championship or major event approaches that we sit down (with Beasley) to map out a specific programme,” he added.
Azizulhasni’s decision was not met with immediate enthusiasm from everyone. His wife, Datin Athiah Ilyana Abd Samat, had mixed feelings about his return to the sport.
"To be honest, she was not happy, but she was also somewhat glad because she knows my passion and drive, and understands what I want,” he explained.
In support of Azizulhasni’s continued journey, Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh announced a special grant of RM200,000 to aid his professional career for 2025 and 2026.
The funds will cover training, coaching, competitions, equipment, medical support and sports science services.