KUALA LUMPUR: Track cyclist Azizulhasni Awang has reaffirmed his desire to win gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics following his impressive outing at the Austral Wheelrace in Melbourne.
The Pocket Rocketman is still on the comeback trail after undergoing open heart surgery in April.
And not much was expected from him at the Austral Wheelrace — the oldest track cycling race in the world (established 1887) — but his trademark determination saw him clinching two podium finishes on Saturday.
He claimed his first victory since his comeback by beating Sam Gallagher of Australia in the individual sprint final and just hours later finished second behind Australian James Brister in the keirin final.
The two-time Olympic medallist believes his heart surgery will not stop him from giving his best in Paris.
"The results here have earned me UCI ranking points. This will qualify me for the UCI Nations Cup next year, which is part of the process to qualify for Paris," said 34-year-old Azizulhasni on social media.
"I am progressing well since my first races at the UCI Track Champions League (TCL).
"It shows that results will follow if you work hard.
"I will keep fighting for the country and compete in Paris for the gold medal."
Azizulhasni is expected to return from his base in Melbourne and join national coach John Beasley in Kuala Lumpur next month.
Azizulhasni, who turns 35 next month, reached one individual sprint semi-final and one keirin final during the UCI TCL last month — his first competition series since returning.
The cyclist will have to do well in the UCI Nations Cup to qualify for the World Championships next year and the Paris Olympics in 2024.
The event starts in Jakarta on Feb 23-26, followed by rounds in Cairo (March 14-17) and Milton (March 20-23).
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