KUALA LUMPUR: National cyclist Harrif Saleh considers coach Datuk Ng Joo Ngan to be akin to his own father in the world of cycling.
Harrif said he first came under Joo Ngan's guidance in 2007 when he was absorbed into the National Sports Council's (NSC) elite programme.
"He trained me until I won Malaysia's first gold medal in the scratch event at the Asian Track Cycling Championships in Thailand (2007)," said Harrif on social media today.
"After that, the (national) team and I were able to win the gold in the team pursuit and break the national record at the 2007 Sea Games, this was under the guidance of uncle Joo Ngan.
"If possible, (these issues) should be resolved amicably by all the parties, that would be the best. Everyone is dear to me."
A number of parents of former riders from the Kuala Lumpur Cycling Association (KLCA) had alleged that Joo Ngan, as KLCA coach, had failed to carry out his duties fairly and, at times, acted in a racist manner.
The parents also alleged that breach of trust and misuse of funds received from the Federal Territories Sports Council (FTSC) had also occurred within the association in recent years.
KLCA acting president Firdaus Arshad and Joo Ngan have categorically denied the allegations.