KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian cycling faces a major challenge replacing long-serving technical director John Beasley, who leaves after more than two decades shaping the nation's track cycling elite.
The 64-year-old Australian is heading to Japan to work alongside head coach Jason Niblett after completing his final assignment with Malaysia at the Track World Championships in Shanghai last week.
Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF) president Datuk Amarjit Singh Gill said Beasley's departure would leave a void for the federation, the National Sports Council (NSC), the Youth and Sports Ministry, and the riders.
"Beasley has been with us for more than two decades. During that time, he has produced many world-class riders, including Azizulhasni Awang.
"The revolution at world level began with Rizal Tisin and Azizulhasni, followed by Shah Firdaus Sahrom.
"We must also remember Beasley's sacrifices and contributions in developing Izzah Izzati Asri," Amarjit said in a statement.
Azizulhasni went on to become keirin world champion in 2017, one of the standout achievements during Beasley's tenure.
Other riders who benefited from his guidance included Josiah Ng and Fatehah Mustapa, as Malaysia established themselves as a force in international track cycling.
Amarjit thanked Beasley for his commitment, dedication, and contributions, saying his service to Malaysian cycling would be difficult to replace.
MNCF also held a special farewell attended by representatives from the NSC, the Youth and Sports Ministry, the National Sports Institute, and officials who had worked with Beasley over the years.
Beasley, who joined Malaysia as national track coach on Jan 1, 2006, will officially end his service on Oct 31 after submitting his resignation on Aug 1 with three months' notice.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd