Sukma double secured, Alyssa shifts focus to Asiad, Worlds

KUALA LUMPUR: Following the completion of Selangor Malaysia Games (Sukma), national rider Nur Alyssa Farid can now concentrate on more significant competitions, such as the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games and Shanghai World Championships. As the main hope for gold from Johor in the track event, the 20-year-old faced considerable pressure during her last Sukma appearance due to the under-21 age limit.

Alyssa exceeded expectations, winning both her favorite events - the women's keirin and individual sprint - at the National Velodrome in Nilai. She expressed her dedication to Johor by stating that she "really went all out for Johor at this Sukma" and that she did not take any race lightly. The young athlete, who made her Commonwealth Games debut in Glasgow recently, acknowledged that tougher competition awaits her at the Asian Games (Sept 19-Oct 4) and the World Championships (Oct 14-18).

Alyssa aims to increase her speed and improve her focus and relaxation techniques to become more competitive against top world riders. She is also focusing on her strength training while being cautious of injuries. Sarawak's Adib Andhar Andan secured gold medals in both the men's keirin and individual sprint at Sukma Selangor.