Terengganu Cycling Team (TSG) coach Jeremy Hunt believes a calmer and more matured Harrif Saleh is now capable of challenging the big boys in the sprint.
Harrif has so far done well by outpacing a strong field of WorldTeam and ProTeam sprinters to win two stages in this year’s Petronas Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL).
Among the top sprinters in the tour are NTT Pro Cycling's Max Walscheid and Bardiani CSF Faizane's Matteo Pelucchi.
Hunt said Harrif, who hails from Kampung Ladang (Kuala Terengganu), always had great potential but was just lacking in a few areas in the past.
“Harrif has performed very well in the tour so far, and has really come of age this year,” said Hunt.
“When we first started working together a few years ago, we all knew he was a good sprinter, but he could not (fully) harness that ability.
“He used to be nervous. However, after giving him the right training and calming him down, he is now more relaxed in the bunch sprint.
“He is sprinting very fast and is now able to win bike races.
“He has a power metre on his bike and his numbers (wattage) are right up there with the world tour professionals.”
In addition to his exploits with TSG, Harrif is also a three-time Sea Games gold medallist.