KUALA LUMPUR: It had the makings of an inspirational Hari Raya tale starring national cyclist Datuk Azizulhasni Awang and his ever-reliable team.
Shot in Perth, Australia, the March 7 flick that took place at the UCI Track World Cup series was not staged nor scripted.
Yet it produced an inspirational, stellar ending – one that made the entire nation proud.
At 38, when some complain of knee aches and others start whining about their stamina, Azizulhasni upstaged a 26-year-old who happens to be the world No 1 – Matthew Richardson of Great Britain. The Malaysian snatched the men’s keirin gold by a whisker.
The race itself delivered fitting drama. Azizulhasni was drawn fifth behind the derny but managed to turn the tables and catch up with Richardson on the second-last lap.
Richardson hit the front on the final straight but was overtaken by Azizulhasni at the finish line by a mere inch.
The Dungun-born rider signed off with his signature move – a mini wheelie at the finish line. Cocky to some, classy to others, but it also represents another C – character.
The gold was not enough as Azizulhasni clinched the bronze medal in the men’s sprint the following day (March 8).
At a time when Malaysian sports is dominated by controversies and mediocre results, Azizulhasni’s act at the Perth SpeedDome was simply remarkable. His team, led by long-time coach John Beasley, deserves special mention for their commitment over the years.
Right after Azizulhasni’s memorable outing, another Malaysian athlete made the country proud in Australia.
National squash star S. Sivasangari, 27, captured the women’s crown at the 2026 Squash Australian Open in Brisbane.
Sivasangari, the tournament’s top seed, delivered an excellent performance to brush aside seventh-seeded American Marina Stefanoni 3-0 in the final at South Bank Piazza on March 15.
And just like Azizulhasni, Sivasangari too has overcome trials and turbulence, including a nasty crash that almost ended her career.
However, their recent exploits serve several powerful messages.
Age is just a number. Nothing is impossible. Consistency is key. Stay focused and motivated. Always aim for the stars.
Azizulhasni, Sivasangari and several other Malaysian athletes have gone on to inspire many with their results. These athletes – true Malaysians, born and bred in the country and who grew up among us – are our superheroes.
They shine brightly like the oil lamps that line homes during Raya. They provide sweet memories, like kuih semprit or London almond biscuits that fill jars on coffee tables.
And their victories strengthen the bond between us all – just like how families and friends cement their relationships during open houses.
Thank you, Azizulhasni and Sivasangari for making this Raya special. Both of you have come a long way.
Your respective sports may not enjoy the limelight unlike the nation’s most popular yet underperforming sport – football. But know this: Malaysians from all walks of life will continue to be rooting for you.
Selamat Hari Raya!
