Outgoing Beasley will have a say on successor

SEPANG: National cycling technical director John Beasley will have a role in selecting his replacement, as his time with Malaysia concludes next year. Beasley's current contract expires on January 31st, but the seasoned coach may not stay on after becoming vexed by Malaysia's political intricacies, bureaucratic hurdles, and inadequate grassroots facilities.

The Australian has dedicated nearly two decades to Malaysian cycling, initially serving as the national track cycling (sprints) head coach before becoming technical director last year.

Malaysia's Youth and Sports Minister, Dr Taufiq Johari, revealed that Beasley's successor will be chosen using a blueprint to maintain continuity within the national cycling program. Taufiq stated that the end of Beasley's contract does not signify the end of their plans, and a prepared blueprint will guide the process. Discussions with the National Sports Council (NSC) will follow, and Beasley will propose the selection of coaches or technical personnel, ensuring adherence to performance standards that have proven successful in the past.

Beasley initially began working with Malaysia in the mid-2000s, coaching Josiah Ng and playing a crucial part in nurturing several of the country's top riders, including Rizal Tisin, Fatehah Mustapa, Shah Firdaus Sahrom, Nurul Izzah Izzati Asri, and the renowned national track cycling icon, Azizulhasni Awang. His impact on Malaysian track cycling has spanned multiple generations, with Malaysia experiencing consistent success on the global stage during his tenure.