'New Joe in good shape for Asiad after horrific Glasgow crash'
KUALA LUMPUR: National track endurance cycling head coach Amir Mustafa Rusli is confident Lau New Joe has the potential to fight for a podium finish at the ongoing Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games.
KUALA LUMPUR - National track endurance cycling coach Amir Mustafa Rusli remains optimistic about Lau New Joe's prospects at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. Although world No. 31 New Joe is not a clear favorite to take a podium spot in the omnium event at the Izu Velodrome, with Japanese and Chinese riders likely to be the main contenders, coach Amir emphasized that track cycling can be highly unpredictable.
Despite ranking fourth in Asia, New Joe's performance in events like the omnium or mass start races can be quite variable, primarily influenced by tactics.
New Joe gained attention after securing a 10th-place finish in the omnium at the Perth leg of the World Cup this year, marking the highest-ever result for a Malaysian in that discipline at the World Cup level. However, he faced a severe crash during the Glasgow Commonwealth Games last month, which resulted in significant injuries to his face.
Coach Amir reassured that New Joe has since recovered and is in good form, having competed in several races in Australia to regain his rhythm and confidence. The track squad, including Amir, New Joe, and others, has been in Brisbane for the final preparation camp ahead of the Asian Games, set to depart for Japan on Wednesday.
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