NEW DELHI, Feb 19
About 500 riders from 18 countries will vie fir top honors at The 43rd Asian Track Cycling championship will be held at the iconic IG Indoor Stadium in the Capital from 21st to 26th February .
The riders will be competing across various categories, including Men Elite, Women Elite, Men Junior, Women Junior, and Para Events,in this championship set to be Asia’s most significant cycling extravaganza.
Talking to media persons, Cycling Federation of India (CFI) secretary general Maninder Pal Singh said that event will serve as the final Track Continental meet before the Paris Olympics.
The points accrued by the riders will play a pivotal role in determining their rankings for the Olympic qualification process, adding an extra layer of intensity to the competition.
He said the participation from leading cycling nations such as China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, and Iran ensures a highly competitive field.
Notable riders from China, Korea, Hong Kong, and Malaysia, including former world champions and Olympic medalists, will vie for top honors, promising thrilling battles on the track.
The total participant countries are: Nepal, Kazakhstan, China, Hongkong, Korea, Thailand, Iran, Chinese Taipei, Japan, Bangladesh, Uzbekistan, Malaysia, UAE, Laos, Saudi Arab, Indonesia, Macau China & the host India.
About the Indian team, he said it will be led by the formidable Sprint quartret comprising former Junior world number one Mr. Ronaldo Singh, along with David Beckham, Rojit Singh, and Esow Albel which carries high hopes for a podium finish.
He exuded confidence that with talents like Ms. Dhandhya JP, last Asian Championship medalist, in their ranks, India can also hope for a gold.
Under the expert guidance of renowned coach Mr. Kevin Sireau, a two-time Olympic medalist and six-time World medalist, the Indian contingent of 60 members, including 42 riders, is primed to deliver their best-ever performance on the Asian stage.
In a testament to inclusivity, six countries, including India, will compete in Para Events, showcasing the spirit of determination and resilience .
“We are confident that the event will provide an exciting platform for athletes to compete at the highest level and inspire the next generation of cyclists.” He added.
Secretary General, Asian Cycling Confederation Onkar Singh who also addressed the media and said that “The Asian Cycling Confederation is delighted to collaborate with India in hosting the 43rd Asian Track Cycling Championships.
‘We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the organizers and look forward to witnessing thrilling competitions that showcase the rich diversity and talent of Asian cycling.”
He said the event will guests, including Mr. Osama Al Shafar, President of ACC and Vice President of UCI, along with Mr. Raja Sapto Octohari, President of the National Olympic Committee (NOC), Indonesia, and Senior Vice President of ACC, among others, adding prestige to the occasion.
