KUALA LUMPUR – Having dedicated nearly two decades to coaching Malaysian track cyclists, Australian John Beasley is eager to do more in the coming years following his recent promotion to technical director for the Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF).
Beasley, 62, sees this new role as an opportunity to shape the future of the sport in the country.
“It’s a privilege to step into this position,” Beasley shared with Scoop.
“I’m looking forward to creating a legacy of excellence and putting structures in place that will benefit Malaysian cycling for years to come.”
Beasley’s plans include strengthening the pathways for young athletes and coaches, with a particular focus on BMX as a high-performance sport and a feeder into other cycling disciplines.
“BMX has so much untapped potential in Malaysia.
“If we can structure it properly, it could be a game-changer for talent development across all cycling categories,” he noted.
Additionally, Beasley is committed to mentoring young coaches, ensuring they have the education and support needed to guide the next generation of athletes.
Away from the track, Beasley’s commitment to his athletes goes beyond professional boundaries. For years, he and his wife have opened their home to the national cyclists during Christmas, a tradition that exemplifies the family-like bond within the Malaysian cycling community.
“I love preparing the turkey and having everyone over,” Beasley said.
“It’s a special time where we can relax, enjoy good food, and celebrate the year together as a team.”
Reflecting on 2024, Beasley described the year as one of mixed emotions. The season began with Datuk Azizulhasni Awang battling pericarditis, a heart condition that threatened his career. Despite this, Azizul managed to secure gold in the keirin and fourth place in the sprint at the Nations Cup in Adelaide.
Meanwhile, Muhammad Shah Firdaus Sahrom and Nurul Izzah Izzati Asri made significant strides, with Izzah delivering a breakout performance at the Asian Cycling Championships in New Delhi, winning two golds, one silver, and two bronzes.
“Izzah’s rise was one of the year’s highlights,” Beasley said.
“She went from being a promising young rider to a legitimate contender on the world stage.”
The team’s success continued with three Malaysian cyclists qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympics – a remarkable achievement for a small programme with limited resources. Pre-Olympic training camps went smoothly, and the athletes were in peak form, setting new national records during the Games.
However, the Olympics ended in heartbreak, with Azizul disqualified in the keirin due to a technical infringement and Shah Firdaus crashing in the keirin final while in podium contention.
“It was tough to watch,” Beasley admitted.
“We had athletes in the best form of their careers, but luck just wasn’t on our side.”
As he prepares for 2025, Beasley is determined to build on the lessons of 2024 and take Malaysian cycling to greater heights.
“There’s so much potential here. If we stay focused, work together, and invest in the right areas, we can achieve extraordinary things.”
Beasley’s promotion marks the beginning of a new chapter, but his passion for the sport and his athletes remains unchanged.
Whether he’s mentoring young coaches, designing high-performance programmes, or carving the Christmas turkey for his team, Beasley’s dedication to Malaysian cycling continues to be a driving force for the nation’s success. – January 1, 2025
