Early Exit For Cyclist Fatehah

LONDON – National cyclist Fatehah Mustafa had an early exit when she failed to be among the top three riders in the Women’s Keirin first round repechages event of the London Olympics.

In the event held at the London Velodrome here, Fatehah only managed fifth spot out of the six riders competing in Heat 2.

Clara Sanchez of France, Natasha Hansen (New Zealand) and Daniela Grefui Larreal (Venezuela) move on to the second round. Only the top three riders in each heat qualify for the next round.

Malaysia’s cycling team manager Datuk Naim Mohamad said Fatehah appeared to be a bundle of nerves in competing in an Olympics.

“Although she is used to competing against the other riders at the World Championship, she was somewhat overawed by the Olympic atmosphere,” he told Bernama.

Malaysia’s cycling hopes now rest on the shoulders of national track cyclist Mohd Azizulhasni Awang who will be mounting his Olympics challenge in the men’s sprint event. – BERNAMA

2012 Olympic