KUALA LUMPUR: Cyclist Azizulhasni Awang is fit and ready for glory in his first assignment of the year at the UCI Track Nations Cup in Jakarta this weekend.
The Pocket Rocketman, who had open heart surgery less than a year ago, is eyeing an Olympic berth for the 2024 Paris Games. The Nations Cup offers ranking points.
Other Malaysians in the fray in Jakarta are Shah Firdaus Sahrom, Fadhil Zonis, Ridwan Sahrom, Zulhelmi Zainal, Abdul Azim Aliyas (men), Anis Amira Rosidi, Nurul Izzah Izzati Asri, Nurul Aliana Syafika Azizan and Nur Aisyah Mohd Zubir (women).
"Doctors have given me the green light to push myself hard on the track following a medical test," said Azizulhasni.
"My body can take it if I step up. I feel at ease following the green light, and I will give my 100 per cent for the best result in my first race of the year."
Azizulhasni will compete in the keirin and sprint events at Rawamangun Velodrome in Jakarta.
Australia's Matthew Richardson and the flying Dutchman Harrie Lavreysen are the favourites in the Nations Cup.
The Nations Cup starts with the men's and women's team pursuit events tomorrow.