THEO SHOWS WHO'S BOS WITH EASY VICTORY

The break

Flag off by Raja Muda Perlis Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail

Theo takes the win!

KULIM, Thursday - Blanco Pro Cycling Team's Theo Bos swept the opening victory in the 18th edition of Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL) today almost unchallenged in the bunch sprint finish.

That victory, 29-year old Bos' second in two weeks, gave him both the Visit Terengganu Year 2013 yellow jersey as the overall leader and the Proton blue jersey as the leader of the points classification.

Backed by a strong team that included the former LTdL record stage winner Greame Brown, Bos easily saw off the challenge of young French sprinter Bryan Coquard of Team Europcar and Italy's Andrea Guardini of the Astana Pro Team, the current LTdL stage win record holder at the end of the 162.7 kilometre stage that ended in 4 hours and 17 seconds.

China's Wang Meiyin of the Hengxiang Cycling Team also grabbed some atention when his early effort in a breakway from kilometre zero with Japan's Shinichi Fukushima of Team Nippo and Ho Junrong of OCBC Singapore saw him win all three intermediate sprints and the category 4 KOM at Bukit Selambau to take the Malaysia Airlines white Asian riders' jersey as well as the Genting red jersey as the mountains classification leader.     

The end result of the stage confirmed pre-race speculations as Bos, winner of Stage Two in the Tour of Algarve in Portugal last week, produced an explosive sprint to finish off the opposition after the peloton had caught up with the three breakway riders 20 kilometres from the finish.

"It was quite easy becausde my teammates controlled the tempo at the front which made it difficult for the other teams to find a good position. My teammate Brown has a lot of experience here, so that also helped me," said Bos.

"But I realise that the race after this will not always be easy. With our team in good condition, I hope to register more victories in the coming stages."

Meiyin, who saw his hopes of a surprise victory diminish when the peloton caught up after  they passed Kuala Ketil, ssaid he had entered the race hoping to make an impact.

"I wanted to show my ability in this race and try to win something," said Meiyin, who has raced in Malaysia with the Marco Polo team prior to this.

"I realised that this is a race with a very high level and it requires a lot more for me to win. But I am still eager to prove something and with the performance in the stage, I'm happy that I have come up with good form after the winter in China," said Meiyin.

Synergy-Baku Cycling Project's Anuar Manan emerged as the best Malaysian rider on the day by finishing seventh in the stage.

"When Blanco were at the front, there was a split in the front of the peloton and I was left behind, so my lead-out man Rico Rogers had to work extra hard to pull me back to the front. After that I tried to match the guys at the front, but they were just too fast," said Anuar.

The second stage of LTdL covers 117km from Serdang to Kuala Kangsar today, where the peloton has toalso negotiate a tough category 2 climb up Bukit Sumpitan.

The LTdL 2013, which carries the slogan "The Heat is On", will officially begin in Kangar on February 21 and the race comprises 10 stages, covering 1469.7 kilometres.

The race is sanctioned by the International Cycling Union (UCI) as a 2.HC (hors category) race on the UCI Asia Tour calendar, organised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, via the National Sports Council (NSC) in association with the Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF).

TYT NEGERI SABAH TO ATTEND CLOSING CEREMONY WITH TUN DR MAHATHIR

18 April 2012, KOTA KINABALU - SABAH’S first international cycling road race - Tour of Borneo which will start from Semporna on April 27 will receive a premier touch at the closing ceremony in Kota Kinabalu on May 1.

Tour of Borneo (ToB) Organising Chairman, Dato' Fredie Sua confirms that Tuan Yang Terutama Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sabah, Tun Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Juhar Bin Haji Mahiruddin will grace the event with Honorary Patron, former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad to officiate the closing ceremony of the inaugural edition of the five-stage tour.

ToB Organising Committee presented a Special Invitation to Tuan Yang Terutama Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sabah at a press conference held in the Royal Palace today.

Tun Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Juhar Bin Haji Mahiruddin upon receiving the invitation, also confessed to being a cycling enthusiast, having officiated and assisted in district level cycling competitions during the period as Member of the Malaysian Parliament for Kinabatangan.

“I am very happy to be a part of this historical event, this race will bring great improvement in the development of cycling in Sabah and I would really like to see our boys take the spot on the podium.”

"I hope that through Tour of Borneo, the people, especially fans of cycling in this country will be able to feel the excitement of a cycling tour, at the same time highlighting the uniqueness of the rich culture and our friendly hospitality to the competitors and officials from overseas who will be here for the first time in Sabah," he added.

During the press conference, Tuan Yang Terutama Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sabah also witnessed a cheque handover from Datuk Lau Chen Kiong, Chairman of Sutranah Development Sdn Bhd from Sarawak to Tour of Borneo organizer.

Dato’ Fredie also confirmed that all parties involved have pledged their commitment and it is all systems go for the inaugural race. "To ensure the success of the first edition of Tour of Borneo, all government agencies at state and district level have agreed to fully commit to ensure the smooth running of the race and also hype up all the host venues especially at the start and finish locations.”

"20 professional teams consisting of continental, national and club teams from all over Asia, including Malaysia, Europe, America, Australia and New Zealand have confirmed their participation and will be accompanied by over 520 race officials," Dato' Fredie added.

Tun Dr Mahathir as the race’s Honorary Patron is also seen as the highest level of recognition for Tour of Borneo as the former Prime Minister was the man who inspired Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL) 17 years ago, the tour has now been recognised as one of the most popular race in the world and Asia and successfully introduced Langkawi Island and Malaysia to the world.

The 2.2 category Tour is sanctioned by the International Cycling Union (UCI) and is listed in UCI Asian Tour calendar, it is hoped to promote Sabah as the ultimate sports tourism destination in Malaysia, and promote cycling in the state.

Tour of Borneo covers a total distance of 758.4 kilometer, will start from Semporna and will pass through pictureque locations of Tawau, Lahad Datu, Sandakan, Sepilok, Kundasang and ends in Kota Kinabalu.

Stage 4, the longest stage covering 214.8 kilometers from Sepilok to Kundasang, is considered the most challenging due to the level of difficulty of the ascent through panoramic views of the foothills of Mount Kinabalu, it will become a household name among the riders who compete in the race, and could be labeled as the race’s 'queen stage' - like the climb to Genting Highlands for Le Tour de Langkawi.

In addition to a challenging route, Tour of Borneo will also held at a time of various festivals held in Sabah such as Regatta Lepa Lepa, Sabah Fest and Borneo International Marathon, providing an opportunity for fans from within and outside the country to experience the joy of a holiday in the state.

Tour of Borneo will be monitored by UCI President Commissaire from New Zealand, Zac Prendergast. The organizer’s main objective is to promote interest in cycling among the younger generations in Sabah, and expose Malaysian riders to more international level competition, thus contributing to the development of cycling in Malaysia.

The 20 teams confirmed for Tour of Borneo 2012 :

1. Team Genesys Wealth Advisers (AUS) - Continental Team

2. OCBC Singapore Continental Cycling Team (SIN) - Continental Team

3. Tabriz Petrochemical Team (IRI) - Continental Team

4 Suren Uzbekistan Team (UZB) - Continental Team

5. CCN Cycling Team (BRU) - Continental Team

6. Terengganu Cycling Team (MAS) - Continental Team

7. Kazakhstan Cycling Federation (KAZ) - National

8. Brunei Darussalam National Team (BRU) - National

9. Malaysian National Team - National

10. Pure Black Racing Team (NZL) - Club

11. Team Plan B (AUS) - Club

12. Polygon Sweet Nice (INA) - Club

13. Putra Perjuangan (INA) - Club

14. 7 Eleven By Roadbike Philippines (PHI) - Club

15. Malaysian Armed Forces - Club

16. Kuala Lumpur - State

17. Negeri Sembilan - State

18. Pahang - State

19. Selangor - State

20. Sabah - State

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LE TOUR de LANGKAWI ENTERS ITS THIRD YEAR PARTNERSHIP WITH BIKE PURE

9 February 2012, KUALA LUMPUR - Cycling fans worldwide deserve heroes they can believe in and Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL) supports the fight against using illegal performance enhancing drugs to compete in cycle sport. LTdL 2012 will be entering it’s third year partnership with BikePure, the organisers believe that cycling only wants ethical role models.

With a new tagline 'Ready For the World', the 17th edition in 2012 will be one that showcases the race's readiness to become part of the UCI World Tour series. In line with this, the aim to promote honest, ethical sport is as important as ever.

With a proven track record, including another accolade of being recognised by the International Cycling Union (UCI) who accorded the 2011 edition with an ‘Excellent Level of Organization’ through its recent official letter, LTdL has acquired enormous respectability on the world cycling stage as a fantastic event, both in organization and the quality of racing.

Each element within cycle sport including the race organizers has their own role to play. LTdL has shown by this partnership, that they want their champions to win with honor and have respect for their fellow riders efforts.

Andy Layhe, co-founder of Bike Pure expressed their appreciation to the organisers for supporting the effort to honest, ethical cycling, “We are delighted to continue our longstanding partnership to the Tour de Langkawi. For the race organisers to show their support for our ethical sporting and anti-doping message means a great deal to us and their commitment to Bike Pure speaks volumes in relation to race organisers who are willing to send a clear, concise message that they won't tolerate or condone cheating in their event.”

“The Tour de Langkawi is growing in stature each year and it is a pleasure to be associated with such a prolific event on cycling's world stage.” He added.

In a positive move, LTdL 2012 officials and staff will wear a specially commissioned Le Tour de Langkawi ‘Ready for the world’ Bike Pure wristband to show their affiliation. The wristbands will also be handed out to teams, officials and riders alike at the event.

LTdL2012 chief operating officer, Emir Abdul Jalal is delighted with the partnership continued for the third year running, “Major events like Le Tour de Langkawi are put together at a great expense and no organizer wishes to see their event tarnished with a doping scandal. Sponsors emphasize on positive media attention, and one single rider could destroy all this investment.”

“Being the first major Asian event this year to fully partner Bike Pure again, we feel responsible to continue this effort and set an example for all other events regardless of big or small to support fair competition and a drug-free sport.” He added.

LTdL 2012 is expected to feature 22 professional teams including two ProTour teams Garmin-Barracuda and Astana ProTeam.

Please visit the Bike Pure website at http://www.bikepure.org for the latest information and the official race site at http://www.ltdl.com.my

LTdL 2012 is organised by the National Sports Council as a mark of continuity to the organisation of the Ministry of Youth and Sports in 2010 and 2011 in collaboration with the Malaysian National Cycling Federation. The race maintains a 2.HC (Hors Classe) status and is recognised and sanctioned by the UCI and UCI Asia Tour.

The 10 day race begins on February 24 with Individual time trial along a 20.3 km course in Putrajaya to kick off the race; followed by stage 2 Putrajaya - Melaka (151.0km); Stage 3 Ayer Keroh - Parit Sulong (187.6km); Batu Pahat - Muar (169.4km); Ayer Keroh - Pandan Indah (190km); Proton Shah Alam - Genting Highlands (108km); Bentong - Kuantan (205.8km); Pekan - Chukai (100.8km); Kemasik - Kuala Terengganu (165.7km) dan Tasik Kenyir - Kuala Terengganu (114.8km).

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MALAYSIA AIRLINES SPONSORS THE WHITE JERSEY

27 January 2012, KUALA LUMPUR - The organisation of Le Tour de Langkawi, recognised by the International Cycling Union (UCI) with an ‘Excellent Level of Organization’, has led Malaysia’s Leading Airline to continue it’s support for the 17th edition of the race, scheduled to be held from 24 February to 4 March.

Malaysia Airlines Berhad has been a long running corporate partner of the race. This year once again the sponsor for the White jersey of the Best Asian Rider Classification.

First introduced in 1998 the jersey was since worn by Asia’s best, including Hong Kong’s Wong Kam Po (2000, 2001), Indonesian hero Tonton Susanto (1998, 2002, 2009), Iranians Ghader Mizbani (2004, 2007) and Hossein Askari (2006), South Korean Gong Hyo-Suk (2010) and from Japan - the Fukushima brothers Koji (2005) and Shinichi (2008), Hideto Yukinari (1999) and Tomoya Kano (2003).

The 2011 edition saw Iranian rider, Rahim Emami taking the best Asian rider jersey and was also part of the Azad University Cycling squad which won best Asian team. It wasn’t an easy win for him as the team had experienced difficulty in Stage 4 Cameron Highlands with a puncture in the last 10 kilometre and crashed in the downhill, loosing 2-3 minutes of precious time.

In a sponsorship and jersey handover ceremony held at LTdL2012 Secretariat in Bukit Jalil, Malaysia Airlines Regional Senior Vice President Sales Malaysia, Azman Ahmad said, “It is a privilege for Malaysia Airlines to be associated with the Le Tour de Langkawi 2012, an annual cycling tournament that attracts top professionals teams from around the world.”

“Having just won an award as ‘World’s Leading Airline to Asia’, it makes good business sense to be a proud sponsor for the Asian Champion jersey, the overall leading rider among Asian participants at the tournament. I am sure this year’s event will outshine last year’s and we can expect yet another thrilling race that will be a fight to the finish for the first time in Kuala Terengganu.” He added.

In line with the Youth and Sport’s Ministry’s objective to expand the Sports Industry in Malaysia, MAS wishes to take their brand to greater heights with the continuation of their partnership with LTdL 2012.

“We are pleased to be part of this strategic collaboration and partnership with Ministry of Youth and Sports, the organisers of the Le Tour de Langkawi 2012. Sports sponsorship is one of the best branding investments and we aim to leverage on this initiative to position our brand growth presence, against the front- end and corporate air travel market.” Azman Ahmad continued. “This is also our contribution towards the Malaysian Government’s Economic Transformation Programme entry point for the tourism sector that targets more international events to attract tourists and provide a boost to Malaysia’s tourism industry. Our association with reputable sporting events such as this is certain to promote Malaysia as an international destination for sports, business and tourism.”

Also present in the sponsorship ceremony were Director of MSN Sports Management Division Dato’ Hj. Ab Jalil Abdullah and Tuan Haji Abu Samah Abdul Wahab president of Malaysian National Cycling Federation.

Dato’ Hj Ab Jalil also expressed the organiser’s appreciation towards the support received from Malaysia Airlines as the preferred Airline of the Tour. “On behalf of the Organizing Committe we would like to thank MAS for their contribution to ensure the smooth running of the event, all the participating teams will be able to travel safely to Malaysia, I am sure they will be well taken care of with MAS’s ‘Malaysian Hospitality’.”

Malaysia Airlines has been a consistent participant in Malaysia's sports tourism activities by being the official airline for events such as CIMB Asia Pacific Classic and the recently held Monsoon Cup

LTdL 2012 is organised by the National Sports Council as a mark of continuity to the organisation of the Ministry of Youth and Sports in 2010 and 2011 in collaboration with the Malaysian National Cycling Federation. The race maintains a 2.HC (Hors Classe) status and is recognised and sanctioned by the UCI and UCI Asia Tour. LTdL 2012 is expected to feature 22 professional teams.

The 10 day race begins on February 24 with Individual time trial along a 20.3 km course in Putrajaya to kick off the race; followed by stage 2 Putrajaya - Melaka (151.0km); Stage 3 Ayer Keroh - Parit Sulong (187.6km); Batu Pahat - Muar (169.4km); Ayer Keroh - Pandan Indah (190km); Proton Shah Alam - Genting Highlands (108km); Bentong - Kuantan (205.8km); Pekan - Chukai (100.8km); Kemasik - Kuala Terengganu (165.7km) dan Tasik Kenyir - Kuala Terengganu (114.8km).

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FIVE FORMER WINNERS ON THE START LINE IN PUTRAJAYA

21 January 2012, KUALA LUMPUR - For the first time in its 16 year old history, the 2012 Le Tour de Langkawi will feature five former overall winners on the start line in Putrajaya on February 24. Tom Danielson (2003), Fredy Gonzalez (2004), Anthony Charteau (2007), Jose Rujano (2010) and Jonathan Monsalve (2011) will try to double up. Only Paolo Lanfranchi (1999, 2001) managed to win LTdL twice so far.

“What a better recognition to our good job than the stars of the race to come back?”, wondered the chief operating officer of LTdL Emir Abdul Jalal. “The presence of these five winners once again evidences that they have kept a good memory of Malaysia.”

“This race is close to my heart. I made my career there”, commented Danielson who was a mountain biker recently turned into a road rider when he won LTdL at the age of 25. This performance allowed him to build his career with top teams Fassa Bortolo, Discovery Channel and Garmin. For various reasons, he only got a start at the Tour de France last year and finished 9th overall.

Danielson is the only one of this returning quintet to have taken part in LTdL after having won it. He finished 5th in 2005. Gonzalez moved on to teams who didn’t compete in LTdL. Charteau chose different race programs. “At the same time of the year, I was highly requested by my personal fan club in Africa after I’d won the Tour of Gabon”, the Frenchman explained. “When I rode for Spanish team Caisse d’Epargne, I tried to convince the directors to send a team to Malaysia but they couldn’t. I’ve always thought I’d come back and this year seems to be the right time.”

In the meantime, Charteau has become famous for becoming the King of the Mountain at the 2010 Tour de France. It was no surprise that a winner of Le Tour de Langkawi was obviously a great climber. “Our race and our country got a lot of mentions in the media worldwide when Charteau got this polka dot jersey at the Tour de France”, said Emir Abdul Jalal.

The same goes to the 2011 Tour of Italy where Rujano won stage 13 after battling against Alberto Contador in the grueling climbs. The little Venezuelan was remembered by the media as the man who soloed to victory in Genting Highlands the year before. He only didn’t come back to Malaysia last year because of a clash of events in his country but he said he’d take the first opportunity to try and win Le Tour de Langkawi again.

It’ll be interesting to see if Rujano plays his own cards this time around or if he tries to get a back-to-back victory for his fellow compatriot Monsalve who has a great future as a climber as well. The 2012 LTdL promises to be a very interesting one, tactically speaking, with so much winning experience on the start line.

LTdL 2012 is organised by the National Sports Council as a mark of continuity to the organisation of the Ministry of Youth and Sports in 2010 and 2011 in collaboration with the Malaysian National Cycling Federation. The race maintains a 2.HC (Hors Classe) status and is recognised and sanctioned by the UCI and UCI Asia Tour. LTdL 2012 is expected to feature 22 professional teams.

The 10 day race begins on February 24 with Individual time trial along a 20.3 km course in Putrajaya to kick off the race; followed by stage 2 Putrajaya - Melaka (151.0km); Stage 3 Ayer Keroh - Parit Sulong (187.6km); Batu Pahat - Muar (169.4km); Ayer Keroh - Pandan Indah (190km); Proton Shah Alam - Genting Highlands (108km); Bentong - Kuantan (205.8km); Pekan - Chukai (100.8km); Kemasik - Kuala Terengganu (165.7km) dan Tasik Kenyir - Kuala Terengganu (114.8km).

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GENTING TO BE THE BATTLEGROUND OF THE CLIMBERS

18 January 2012, PUTRAJAYA - Genting Highlands is often associated with fun and excitement, and its cool temperature offers an ideal getaway from the tropical heat.

For cyclists, it is the much awaited stage for the riders competing in Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL) as it is the deciding factor in the race for the overall victory and the King of the Mountain (KOM) classification. Graded as a Hors category climb in the mountains classification and can be considered the "Queen Stage" of the annual race.

For the 17th edition of LTdL, which begins from February 24 and ends on March 4, Genting Malaysia Berhad once again continues its sponsorship with a contribution worth RM 800,000 in cash and kind, in order to ensure the success of the biggest race in Asia.

Genting Malaysia Berhad has been a corporate partner of the race since its inception in 1996. This year continuing to be the sponsor for the red jersey for the King of the Mountain classification, which is the much sought after piece of attire among climbers.

Genting Malaysia Berhad Deputy Chairman Tun Mohammed Hanif Omar today presents the sponsorship to YB Dato’ Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek, Youth and Sports Minister of Malaysia at the Maritime Centre, Precinct 5 at Putrajaya.

“Genting Malaysia has been a ‘traditional sponsor’ for Le Tour de Langkawi, consistently for the past 17 years. We have seen this local event grow till it has gained recognition at the international arena. This year, once again we are proud to continue our support to Le Tour de Langkawi”, said Tun Hanif in his speech.

"Genting Malaysia is proud to work together with the organisers of Le Tour de Langkawi to further promote Genting Highlands as one of the leading holiday destinations in the country," he added.

Meanwhile, Youth and Sports Minister YB Dato’ Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek thanked Genting Malaysia Berhad for continuing their support since the very beginning, he also stated that Genting Highlands has been dubbed the ‘world toughest climb’ due to it’s gradient of climb.

The climb up Genting Highlands is very popular among riders who compete in LTdL every year. Besides its steep and long climbs, those who are not well prepared will have problems arriving at the finish line which is 1,400 metres above sea level.

Last year saw young Venezuelan rider Jonathan Monsalve emerge victorious at the summit of Genting Highlands and eventually securing him the coveted overall title and the KOM jersey at the end of the race, Monsalve battled wind and rain up to the finish with 42 year old Libardo Nino Corredor (Le Tua) who could only settle for second place on that crucial day.

The 2012 edition has lined up great climbers to take on the ultimate ‘Queen Stage’ of LTdL.

Tom Danielson of Garmin-Barracuda – the overall winner of LTdL 2003 with Team Saturn then returns for a showdown. Tom took over the leader’s jersey after an unlucky crash suffered by teammate and overnight leader Nathan O'Neill at the finish of stage 7 in Bentong causing him to loose valuable time.

Danielson ranked 9th overall in Tour de France last year will be the one to watch. But he will face a tough challenge from the past two winners of the Genting stage. Jose Rujano and Jonathan Monsalve are now united inside the Androni Giocattoli team. The combination of the talent of the Venezuelans from two generations might make it hard for other riders to hold their pace.

A huge attraction of the Genting stage will be the return of the overall winner of LTdL 2007 Anthony Charteau, now with Europcar. He might have surprised a few by his climbing abilities that year but in the meantime, he has put his mark on the map of world cycling as he became the King of the Mountains in the 2010 Tour de France.

It’ll also be interesting to see what Freddy Gonzalez can deliver at the age of 37. The new Colombian recruit of Iranian team Azad University came along with the two younger brothers of Libardo Nino, Miguel and Victor. In the battle of the old warriors, Kazakh superstar Alexandre Vinokourov, 39, from Astana, and Ghader Mizbani, 37, from Tabriz, haven’t said their last word yet.

“This year’s start list features so many good and prestigious climbers that we might have the best stage up to Genting Highlands ever contested”, previewed the chief operating officer of Le Tour de Langkawi Emir Abdul Jalal.

Previous winners of the LTdL Genting Highlands stage:

1996: Damian McDonald (Aus/Giant Australia)
1997: Luca Scinto (Ita/MG-Technogym)
1998: Giuliano Figueras (Ita/Mapei)
1999: Marcus Ljunqvist (Swe/Cantina Tollo)
2000: Julio Alberto Perez Cuapio (Mex/Panaria)
2001: Paolo Lanfranchi (Ita/Mapei)
2002: Hernan Dario Munoz (Col/Colombia-Selle Italia)
2003: Hernan Dario Munoz (Col/Colombia-Selle Italia)
2004: Ruber Marin (Col/Colombia-Selle Italia)
2005: Ryan Cox (RSA/Barloworld)
2006: José Serpa (Col/Selle Italia-Diquigiovanni)
2007: José Serpa (Col/Diquigiovanni)
2009: José Serpa (Col/Diquigiovanni)
2010: José Rujano (Ven/ ISD Neri)
2011: Jonathan Monsalve (Ven/ Androni Giocattoli)

LTdL 2012 is organised by the National Sports Council as a mark of continuity to the organisation of the Ministry of Youth and Sports in 2010 and 2011 in collaboration with the Malaysian National Cycling Federation. The race maintains a 2.HC (Hors Classe) status and is recognised and sanctioned by the UCI and UCI Asia Tour. LTdL 2012 is expected to feature 22 professional teams.

The 10 day race begins on February 24 with Individual time trial along a 20.3 km course in Putrajaya to kick off the race; followed by stage 2 Putrajaya - Melaka (151.0km); Stage 3 Ayer Keroh - Parit Sulong (187.6km); Batu Pahat - Muar (169.4km); Ayer Keroh - Pandan Indah (190km); Proton Shah Alam - Genting Highlands (108km); Bentong - Kuantan (205.8km); Pekan - Chukai (100.8km); Kemasik - Kuala Terengganu (165.7km) dan Tasik Kenyir - Kuala Terengganu (114.8km).

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RUJANO AND MONSALVE BACK IN ACTION AT LE TOUR DE LANGKAWI 2012

16 January 2012, KUALA LUMPUR - The last two winners of Le Tour de Langkawi will be back in action when the race will be on again at Putrajaya on February 24. Venezuelans José Rujano, who won LTdL in 2010 for ISD, and defending champion Yonnatta Monsalve will be united under the banner of Androni Giocattoli.

Their legendary team manager Gianni Savio will direct his boys for the twelfth time in Malaysia, a country where he enjoyed a lot of successes since his first visit back in 2000. Australia’s Jamie Drew was the first of his riders to impose himself at the end of stage 2 at Batu Ferringhi (Penang) that year.

“I’ve completely fallen in love with Malaysia and I was sad when the cycling calendar didn’t permit us to compete in Le Tour de Langkawi in 2010”, said Savio who is known for his strong ties with South America. He brought the first Colombian winner Hernan Dario Munoz in 2002 but his roster is now composed of a few Venezuelans, such as Rujano and Monsalve.

“Le Tour de Langkawi will be their first race of the year”, Savio explained. “If Rujano has the condition we expect, he’ll be our captain. The inaugural time trial shouldn’t be a problem for him. He’s got a good history with time trialling in Malaysia.” In fact, the pocket climber proved to be efficient against the clock when he finished third in the 20-km stage in Bachok won by Australian specialist Nathan O’Neill in 2005.

“The Genting stage will be our main goal once again”, Savio continued. “But the main difficulty of Le Tour de Langkawi is to control the race in the last four stages. As always, we’ll honor the race as much as we can but it won’t be an easy one to win this year. We’ll face a very strong competition.”

Rujano and Monsalve will be helped by their compatriots Carlos Ochoa and Jackson Rodriguez who are scheduled to warm up for LTdL by riding the Tour of San Luis in Argentina at the end of January. Super domestique Alessandro De Marchi will resume his duty after playing a precious role in Monsalve’s victory last year. “Monsalve had an injury after Le Tour de Langkawi last year, that’s why it was his only victory of the year, but he returned and produced a strong showing at the late season Italian races”, Savio emphasized.

Androni Giocattoli’s sixth man in Malaysia will be the young and promising sprinter Omar Bertazzo from Italy. “We’ve always liked this team and we’re happy to learn that they have just been awarded a wild card for the 2012 Giro d’Italia as well”, commented Le Tour de Langkawi chief operating officer Emir Abdul Jalal.

LTdL 2012 is organised by the National Sports Council as a mark of continuity to the organisation of the Ministry of Youth and Sports in 2010 and 2011 in collaboration with the Malaysian National Cycling Federation. The race maintains a 2.HC (Hors Classe) status and is recognised and sanctioned by the UCI and UCI Asia Tour. LTdL 2012 is expected to feature 22 professional teams.

The 10 day race begins on February 24 with Individual time trial along a 20.3 km course in Putrajaya to kick off the race; followed by stage 2 Putrajaya - Melaka (151.0km); Stage 3 Ayer Keroh - Parit Sulong (187.6km); Batu Pahat - Muar (169.4km); Ayer Keroh - Pandan Indah (190km); Proton Shah Alam - Genting Highlands (108km); Bentong - Kuantan (205.8km); Pekan - Chukai (100.8km); Kemasik - Kuala Terengganu (165.7km) dan Tasik Kenyir - Kuala Terengganu (114.8km).

THE ANDRONI GIOCATTOLI TEAM FOR THE 2012 LE TOUR DE LANGKAWI:

JOSÉ RUJANO, JONATHAN MONSALVE, CARLOS OCHOA, JACKSON RODRIGUEZ (ALL FROM VENEZUELA), OMAR BERTAZZO AND ALESSANDRO DE MARCHI (BOTH ITALIANS)

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RUSVELO TO WRITE THE FIRST CHAPTER OF A NEW HISTORY AT LE TOUR DE LANGKAWI

10 January 2012, KUALA LUMPUR - An interesting attraction of the 2012 Le Tour de Langkawi will be the first participation of the newly born Pro Continental Russian team RusVelo. Despite their lack of history, they are likely to kick off with the label of hot favourite for the inaugural stage, which will consists in a 20km individual time trial in Putrajaya, the home of Malaysian government, on February 4. Former Russian national champion for time trial Artem Ovechkin will be a man to watch.

“RusVelo reminds us of Tinkoff”, noted Le Tour de Langkawi chief operating officer Emir Abdul Jalal. “This newly formed Russian team had their first race in Malaysian in 2007. They won their first race with Pavel Brutt in Seremban – this remains as one of the best stages ever contested at Le Tour de Langkawi. They carried on with enjoying great success at the Tour of Italy and they became the famous Katusha team later on. That’s what we like: raising talents in our beautiful and hospitable country.”

RusVelo’s team manager Heiko Salzwedel knows very well what this is all about. He was a pioneer of Le Tour de Langkawi as he brought from Australia the first winning team, Giant-AIS, back in 1996. “I have great memories about this race”, explained the famous German coach. “In 1996 and 1997 I was the sport’s director of a small Australian squad. We were a new, young team and our riders Damian McDonald won in 1996 and Jens Voigt finished 2nd overall in 1997. I hope we can have a similar impact this year with RusVelo and show that we are a strong and hungry team.”

“RusVelo is a new Professional Continental team from Russia consisting of exclusively Russian riders”, Salzwedel continued. “Our main goals for 2012 are the Olympic Games and the World Team Time Trial Championships. To achieve good results at these events we have gathered a homogenous mix of experienced riders and young athletes that have great potential. On the team management side we hired an international group of experts consisting amongst others of Viatcheslav Ekimov, Victor Popov, Henk Vogels and Egon van Kessel. Together, I truly believe that we can achieve amazing things in the future.”

Salzwedel made no mystery about his ambitions for a flying start. “Le Tour de Langkawi is very important to us and I believe we have a pretty strong team at the starting line”, he stated.” Artem (Ovechkin) can score a good result for us in the ITT while Sergey (Klimov) has the potential to do well in the GC. A stage win so early in the season would be great for us and boost the moral for the rest of the year.”

RusVelo’s sport’s director for Le Tour de Langkawi will be the former pro Henk Vogels who was one of Salzwedel’s first pupils in Australia. He rode LTdL on several occasions with French outfit Credit Agricole. “He can share valuable experiences especially with our young riders”, Salzwedel concluded.

LTdL 2012 is organised by the National Sports Council as a mark of continuity to the organisation of the Ministry of Youth and Sports in 2010 and 2011 in collaboration with the Malaysian National Cycling Federation. The race maintains a 2.HC (Hors Classe) status and is recognised and sanctioned by the UCI and UCI Asia Tour. LTdL 2012 is expected to feature 22 professional teams.

The 10 day race begins on February 24 with Individual time trial along a 20.3 km course in Putrajaya to kick off the race; followed by stage 2 Putrajaya - Melaka (151.0km); Stage 3 Ayer Keroh - Parit Sulong (187.6km); Batu Pahat - Muar (169.4km); Ayer Keroh - Pandan Indah (187.2km); Proton Shah Alam - Genting Highlands (108km); Bentong - Kuantan (215.8km); Pekan - Chukai (100.8km); Kemasik - Kuala Terengganu (169.4km) dan Tasik Kenyir - Kuala Terengganu (116.6km).

RUSVELO FOR THE 2012 LE TOUR DE LANGKAWI:

ALEXANDER KHATUNTSEV, SERGEI KLIMOV, ARTEM OVECHKIN, VALERY VALYNIN, IVAN SAVITSKY, MATVEY ZUBOV (ALL RUSSIANS)

AISAN IN A WINNING MOOD DESPITE INJURY-PLAGUED ROSTER

6 January 2012, KUALA LUMPUR - In two participations to Le Tour de Langkawi, Japanese team Aisan Racing has made history on the Asia Tour by scoring back-to-back stage victories. Stage 4 winner in 2010 Taiji Nishitani will be in action again from February 24 to March 4 but his team-mate Takeaki Ayabe who struck the world of cycling by beating European and South American climbers at the top of the Cameron Highlands last year will give the Malaysian event a miss this time around as he broke a knee at the end of the 2011 season.

“We’ll miss him”, explained Nishitani, “but we’ll come back with the same team and staff that enjoyed success in the past two years and we hope to win a stage once again.” At the age of 31, Nishitani has been a regular scorer on the Asia Tour since he joined Aisan in 2006. Among the nineteen UCI victories he’s got under his belt, he was the 2009 Japanese national champion. But he retains his stage win at the 2010 Le Tour de Langkawi as a very special one. “That day, our team work was perfect”, he said as he remembered the lead out he got at the end from Kazuhiro Mori. It allowed him to beat Australian star in the making Michael Matthews and Spanish experienced sprinter Vidal Celis in Parit Sulong.

“In the early years of Le Tour de Langkawi, it was seen as something exceptional when an Asian rider won a stage”, chief operating officer Emir Abdul Jalal commented. “Hong Kong’s Wang Kam Po was the first rider to do in 2000. But now everyone knows that Asians can perform as well. With riders like Nishitani and a team like Aisan, we’re never disappointed. Japanese cyclists always produce a great show.” Malaysian fans always remember the systematic attacks from the gun by Koji Fukushima whose elder brother Shinichi will participate to LTdL once again this year with Malaysian continental team Terengganu.

The Aisan Racing team has also secured a start at the Tour of Oman preceding Le Tour de Langkawi. Some of their riders have already resumed racing with the Jayco Bay Crits in Australia. Nishitani was one of them. “I needed speed in my legs before taking part in the track world cup in Beijing in mid-January”, he said. “We need to score points for Japan to qualify more riders for the Olympics. By the end of February, I’m confident that my form will be impeccable and I should come to the sprints in Malaysia with a good speed in the legs after this block of specific training.”

LTdL 2012 is organised by the National Sports Council as a mark of continuity to the organisation of the Ministry of Youth and Sports in 2010 and 2011 in collaboration with the Malaysian National Cycling Federation. The race maintains a 2.HC (Hors Classe) status and is recognised and sanctioned by the UCI and UCI Asia Tour. LTdL 2012 is expected to feature 22 professional teams.

The 10 day race begins on February 24 with Individual time trial along a 20.3 km course in Putrajaya to kick off the race; followed by stage 2 Putrajaya - Melaka (151.0km); Stage 3 Ayer Keroh - Parit Sulong (187.6km); Batu Pahat - Muar (169.4km); Ayer Keroh - Pandan Indah (187.2km); Proton Shah Alam - Genting Highlands (108km); Bentong - Kuantan (215.8km); Pekan - Chukai (100.8km); Kemasik - Kuala Terengganu (169.4km) dan Tasik Kenyir - Kuala Terengganu (116.6km).



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MALAYSIA’S ANUAR MANAN AND MOHD ADIQ HUSAINIE TO LEAD THE DESTINY OF ASIA’S NEW SUPER TEAM AT LE TOUR DE LANGKAWI

28 December 2011, KUALA LUMPUR - Asia finally has a Pro Continental team with China-registered and Hong Kong-based Champion System Pro Cycling Team. They are considered for a wild card at the Giro d’Italia but for now they’re guaranteed to ride Le Tour de Langkawi with their new status from February 24 to March 4. The recruitment of Malaysian up and coming stars Anuar Manan, previously with Terengganu Pro Asia, and Mohd Adiq Husainie Othman, transferred from Australian outfit Drapac, will make Champion System a very popular team on the road.

“We always love to see Anuar in contention for winning sprints and Adiq is possibly Malaysia’s next big thing in cycling”, commented Le Tour de Langkawi chief operating officer Emir Abdul Jalal. “Our event will be the first step for them to conquer the world this year.”

“After so many years riding for continental Asian teams, it’s the right time for me to step up and join the Pro Continental level”, said Anuar who rode for Letua, Azad University, Geumsan Ginseng and Terengganu Pro Asia successively. “I’ve opted for Champion System because it’s going to be a very good team and they’ll give me opportunities to race in Europe and in the US as well. I’m attracted by Europe even more than the US because this is only one step for me. I hope it’ll lead me to a Pro Team after one year or two.”

“I’m very proud to be already able to ride at Pro Continental level at the age of only 21”, added Adiq. “I’m happy with that. It’s a great experience. This will be my third time riding LTdL. In my first participation in 2010, I managed to score KOM points and help my team-mate [Peter McDonald] fight for podium and KOM jersey. In 2011, I made some top 10 at stages. I hope I can do better in 2012. With the new team, my motivation is increased.”

Before riding LTdL with stage finishes in their respective home towns of Cukai and Kuala Terengganu, Adiq and Anuar will get to know their new team-mates at a gathering in Hong Kong, the team presentation in Beijing and a training camp in Hainan in January. “I’m more of a road rider now but I’ll ride the points race at the track world cup in Beijing to give a contribution to my country and qualify for the world championship in Melbourne in April”, Adiq said. Both riders from Champion System are also in contention for representing Malaysia at the London Olympics.

“For the coming Le Tour de Langkawi, I don’t want to win only one stage”, said Anuar who became the first Malaysian to do so in Port-Dickson in 2010. “I want to win more than one and get the blue jersey back. I believe that I’ll have the right team around me to achieve that, with riders like Aaron Kemps and Jaan Kirsipuu who have a great experience in leading out sprinters.”

“We will come to LTdL with a lot of ambition”, confirmed directeur sportif Ed Beamon. “It looks to be a very good field, and of course there will be some pressure on us as an Asian team, but I think we’ll be up for the task. Chris Butler will be anxious to test his legs on Genting for sure and we’ll try very hard to get Anuar a stage win (or two). I think we are bringing a pretty fast team with Kirsipuu, Kemps and Manan, but I’d love to see Adiq have a shot from a small group one day. Craig Lewis’ experience will be a big help and I’m hoping he and Adiq will find some quick chemistry and that will really be a good motivator.”

LTdL 2012 is organised by the National Sports Council as a mark of continuity to the organisation of the Ministry of Youth and Sports in 2010 and 2011 in collaboration with the Malaysian National Cycling Federation. The race maintains a 2.HC (Hors Classe) status and is recognised and sanctioned by the UCI and UCI Asia Tour. LTdL 2012 is expected to feature 22 professional teams.

The 10 day race begins on February 24 with Individual time trial along a 20.3 km course in Putrajaya to kick off the race; followed by stage 2 Putrajaya - Melaka (151.0km); Stage 3 Ayer Keroh - Parit Sulong (187.6km); Batu Pahat - Muar (169.4km); Ayer Keroh - Pandan Indah (187.2km); Proton Shah Alam - Genting Highlands (108km); Bentong - Kuantan (215.8km); Pekan - Chukai (100.8km); Kemasik - Kuala Terengganu (169.4km) dan Tasik Kenyir - Kuala Terengganu (116.6km).

THE CHAMPION SYSTEM TEAM FOR THE 2012 LE TOUR DE LANGKAWI:

CHRIS BUTLER (USA), AARON KEMPS (AUS), JAAN KIRSIPUU (EST), CRAIG LEWIS (USA), ANUAR MANAN (MAL) and MOHD ADIQ HUSAINIE OTHMAN (MAL)

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UNITEDHEALTHCARE COUNTS ON FORSTER AGAIN TO WIN SPRINTS AT LE TOUR DE LANGKAWI

23 December 2011, KUALA LUMPUR - The US-registered Pro Continental team UnitedHealthcare will make their second appearance at Le Tour de Langkawi from February 24 to March 4.

The Malaysian event marked their debut in the second division of world cycling and it was a successful one. “We had a strong showing with a stage win and several podiums”, said team manager Mike Tamayo. German sprinter Robert Forster scored the first success for his new outfit after spending eight seasons on the European top level circuit. With Gerolsteiner and Milram, he rode no less than thirteen Grand Tours: eight Giro d’Italia with a stage win in 2007, three Tour de France and two Vuelta a Espana.

“It was one of the highlights of the past edition of Le Tour de Langkawi when Forster won stage 8 in Jasin”, commented the chief operating officer Emir Abdul Jalal. “A sprinter with prestigious wins under his belt, he showed the young guns Andrea Guardini and Marcel Kittel that he was still one of the fastest cyclists in the world, so we’re delighted to welcome him and his team back. I’m sure that after their first experience in Malaysia, they’ll be even stronger this time around.”

Tamayo confirmed their increased ambitions. “Team UnitedHealthcare is honored and very motivated about the 2012 Le Tour de Langkawi”, he said. “We are aware of the growth of the race and cycling in Malaysia but we plan on bigger success at the 2012 edition of the race.”

They have put a stronger team at the service of Forster with the expertise of the Australian trio of lead out men Karl Menzies and the Clarke brothers who are no strangers to Le Tour de Langkawi after having ridden the race with different teams in the past.

At the 2011 Le Tour de Langkawi, Team UnitedHealthcare got to know the famous Belgian directeur sportif Hendrik Redant who was the radio Tour officer and they hired him for what is his real job, as they intend to improve their presence on the European scene as well.

LTdL 2012 is organised by the National Sports Council as a mark of continuity to the organisation of the Ministry of Youth and Sports in 2010 and 2011 in collaboration with the Malaysian National Cycling Federation. The race maintains a 2.HC (Hors Classe) status and is recognised and sanctioned by the UCI and UCI Asia Tour. LTdL 2012 is expected to feature 22 professional teams.

The 10 day race begins on February 24 with Individual time trial along a 20.3 km course in Putrajaya to kick off the race; followed by stage 2 Putrajaya - Melaka (151.0km); Stage 3 Ayer Keroh - Parit Sulong (187.6km); Batu Pahat - Muar (169.4km); Ayer Keroh - Pandan Indah (187.2km); Proton Shah Alam - Genting Highlands (108km); Bentong - Kuantan (215.8km); Pekan - Chukai (100.8km); Kemasik - Kuala Terengganu (169.4km) dan Tasik Kenyir - Kuala Terengganu (116.6km).

THE UNITEDHEALTHCARE TEAM FOR THE 2012 LE TOUR DE LANGKAWI:

ROBERT FORSTER (GER), HILTON CLARKE (AUS), JONATHAN CLARKE (AUS), ADRIAN HEGYVARI (USA), JAKE KEOUGH (USA) and KARL MENZIES (AUS)

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TSG TO TARGET STAGE WINS AT LE TOUR DE LANGKAWI 2012

9 December 2011, KUALA LUMPUR - TERENGGANU Pro-Asia Cycling Team (TSG) is planning their gameplay carefully to ensure their riders who will compete at Le Tour de Langkawi 2012 (LTdL) are ready to meet their target of winning stages and to improve their overall team classification.

With daily schedule packed for training and participation in several national championships, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TSG, Mohd Sophian Abu Bakar said, the management is concentrating on developing the fitness of their riders before the final confirmation in January next year. Among the local tournament the team will compete in December is the National GP in Johor and Kuala Lumpur as well as Pesta Pulau Pinang.

"Upon entering the new year, our riders will enter training camp, we still yet to confirm the location but we won’t rule out the possibility of training in Chiang Mai, Thailand, like last year.“

"What is important now is to ensure that the level of fitness of our riders are in excellent shape before the start of LTdL, from 24 February to 4 March," said Mohd Sophian. According to him, after Hariff Salleh and Anuar Manan missed out several opportunities to win a stage in the 16th edition, TSG hope that it can be fulfilled at LTdL 2012.

Currently, TSG still maintain total 14 riders in the team but did not rule out the possibility of changes to take on new riders when the existing contract ends in December 2011. Mohd Sophian said TSG management also hopes to maintain their four foreign riders, including Japanese veteran, Shinichi Fukushma in the new season.

"It's too early to list the name of the riders as we are due to sign new contracts with the riders when the existing contract ends, but we hope to attract some new local and foreign riders to strengthen the team, especially in the climbs which was still our team’s weakness," he said.

In the 2011 edition, Mat Saufi Mat Senan was the best rider for the team where he ranked 31st overall, only 6 minutes 28 seconds behind yellow jersey winner from Androni team, Jonathan Monsalve. Shahrul Mat Amin placed 37th overall, while in the overall team classification, TSG ranked eighth, clocking in 21 minutes 37 seconds behind overall winner, Tabriz Petrochemical from Iran. With three final stages of the 10 day race finishing in Terengganu, Mohd Sophian hope it provides inspiration for the team to produce encouraging results, especially in front of their home crowd.

LTdL 2012 covers a total distance of 1,410.7 kilometers which will start in Putrajaya, includes finish locations in Cukai in Stage 8 and Kuala Terengganu in Stage 9 and 10. "TSG is not aiming too high, but expects their riders including sprinter, Hariff Salleh who ranked 8th in the points classification in the last edition can make a surprise stage win and improve his overall position.“ he added.

"With only one difficult climb up Genting Highlands next year, TSG will get the opportunity to realize their stage victory in eight other stages. It is too early for us to set the strategy for the race at this time," said Mohd Sophian again.

LTdL 2012 is organised by the National Sports Council as a mark of continuity to the organisation of the Ministry of Youth and Sports in 2010 and 2011 in collaboration with the Malaysian National Cycling Federation. The race maintains a 2.HC (Hors Classe) status and is recognised and sanctioned by the UCI and UCI Asia Tour.

The 10 day race begins on February 24 with Individual time trial along a 20.3 km course in Putrajaya to kick off the race; followed by stage 2 Putrajaya - Melaka (151.0km); Stage 3 Ayer Keroh - Parit Sulong (187.6km); Batu Pahat - Muar (169.4km); Ayer Keroh - Pandan Indah (187.2km); Proton Shah Alam - Genting Highlands (108km); Bentong - Kuantan (215.8km); Pekan - Chukai (100.8km); Kemasik - Kuala Terengganu (169.4km) dan Tasik Kenyir - Kuala Terengganu (116.6km).

LTdL 2012 is expected to feature 22 professional teams including three local teams which are the national team, TSG and LeTua Cycling Team.

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SWEET SEVENTEEN FOR LE TOUR DE LANGKAWI SET

5 August 2011, PUTRAJAYA : A totally different flavour is set for the 17th edition of Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL) with government bodies and states involved as hosts of start and finish venues pledging their full support.

At the race's Main Coordinating Committee (MCC) meeting today the parties reaffirmed their commitment to the cause and it is all systems go for the UCI 2.HC class race set for February 24 to March 4, 2012.

The race is set to see the return of at least two UCI Pro Teams, with American outfit Garmin-Cervelo and Asia's biggest cycling team, Pro Team Astana of Kazakhstan, among the 13 teams already confirmed for the race, which Youth and Sports Committee secretary general Dato’ Mohid Mohamed announced will be expected to feature 22 teams in total.

"All the states and government bodies involved are happy to be chosen and host venues for 2012 and have pledged to give their full support to ensure the success of LTdL," said Dato’ Mohid, who chaired the MCC meeting, which was also attended by National Sports Council director general Dato' Zolkples Embong and Malaysian National Cycling Federation president Tuan Haji Abu Samah Abdul Wahab.

"LTdL's progress for the 2012 is on schedule, the states involved are called much earlier on this time so they can prepare in advance." He added.

Preparation will be vital for this coming edition of LTdL, which will feature 10 stages and some interesting highlights, including an individual time trial in Putrajaya. This will be the first time since 2006 that an individual time trial is included as part of LTdL, held in Melacca.

The historic state of Malacca will host two stage starts and a finish, while the local cycling hotbed of Terengganu will host the final three stage finishes and two starts.

The race, that will cover a total distance of over 1,400 kilometres, will also see the return of lengthy stages, topped by a 215.8 kilometre stage from Bentong to Kuantan on the seventh day of the tour, which comes right after the race's queen stage, the climb up Genting Highlands the previous day.

This, Dato’ Mohid said, is aimed at giving sponsors their desired mileage with the time trial alone set to hit the TV screens live for two hours continuously.

LTdL 2012 will be organised by the National Sports Council as a mark of continuity to the organisation of the Ministry of Youth and Sports in 2010 and 2011 with in collaboration with the Malaysian National Cycling Federation.

The 10 stages includes Putrajaya Individual Time Trial (20.3km); Putrajaya - Melaka (151.0km); Melaka - Parit Sulong (187.6km); Batu Pahat - Muar (169.4km); Ayer Keroh - Pandan Indah (187.2km); Proton Shah Alam - Genting Highlands (108.0km); Bentong - Kuantan (215.8km); Pekan - Chukai (100.8km); Kemasik - Kuala Terengganu (169.4km) and Kuala Terengganu - Kuala Terengganu Loop (110.7km).

The 11 teams were also announced in the press conference, which are:

National
1. Malaysia National Team
2. Taiwan National Team

Continental
3. MTN Quebeca - RSA
4. Aisan Racing Team - Japan
5. Chipotle Development Team - USA
6. PureBlack Racing - New Zealand
7. Drapac Professional Cycling - Australia
8. Max Success Sports - China
9. Terengganu Pro-Asia Cycling Team - Malaysia
10. LeTua Cycling Team - Malaysia

Pro Continental
11. UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling Team - USA

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LTDL 2012 PROMISES WORLD CLASS ACTION

9 June 2011, PUTRAJAYA - With a new tagline 'Ready For the World', the 17th edition of Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL) in 2012 will be one that showcases the race's readiness to become part of the UCI World Tour series.

With a proven track record, including another accolade of being recognised by the International Cycling Union (UCI) who accorded the 2011 edition with an ‘Excellent Level of Organization’ through its recent official letter, the race is ready to move further forward.

LTdL 2012 is scheduled to be held from February 24 to March 4 will be preparing for a new chapter by welcoming more top tier UCI Pro Teams.

If previous editions only featured two or three Pro Teams, LTdL 2012 will be reinstating itself as the foremost cycling event in Asia by featuring more teams of that status.

The launching ceremony of LTdL's new image and the route announcement were officiated by Youth and Sports Minister YB Dato' Sri Ahmad Shabery Cheek, while Ministry of Youth and Sports Secretary General Dato' Mohid Bin Mohamed, National Sports Council director general Dato' Zolkples Embong and Malaysian National Cycling Federation president Tuan Haji Abu Samah Abdul Wahab LTdL 2012 will be organised by the National Sports Council as a mark of continuity to the organisation of the Ministry of Youth and Sports in 2010 and 2011 with in collaboration with the Malaysian National Cycling Federation.

The race maintains a 2.HC (Hors Classe) status and is recognised and sanctioned by the UCI and UCI Asia Tour.

The tagline 'Ready For the World' will inject inspiration into the national cyclists who will be competing in the race. More elaborate preparation will be done in order for the Malaysian road cyclists to challenge the reputations of track cyclists who are classified as 'World-beaters' like Azizulhasni Awang, Josiah Ng and Rizal Tisin.

At the same ceremony, a memorandum of understanding between MNCF and representatives of two UCI ProTour Teams, Team Garmin-Cervelo and Pro Team Astana were also signed. Team Garmin-Cervelo will be represented by Director Sportif Chann McRae, while Pro Team Astana will be represented by Commercial Director Dr. Aidar Makhmetov. This memorandum will ensure the preparedness of both teams to provide a world class challenge in LTdL 2012.

The LTdL 2012 challenge begins on February 24 with Individual time trial along a 20.3 km course in Putrajaya to kick off the race that runs for a total distance of 1,414.8km.

The Genting Highlands climb is featured on the sixth stage and remains the race's signature stage with a Hors category climb up to the summit at 1,679m above sea level. Right after that, a 215km stage from Bentong to Kuantan offer an even stiffer challenge on Stage Seven.

Moving away from tradition, where the LTdL final stage usually features a criterium in Kuala Lumpur, LTdL 2012 will end with the final three stages being hosted by Terengganu.

Terengganu's selection as the finish host of LTdL 2012 was based on the state Government's pro-activeness in the development of cycling, as the state has produced many of the current batch of riders representing the country.

Through the state's development programmes they have produced riders like Azizulhasni Awang, Fatehah Mustapa, Anuar Manan, Mohd Harrif Salleh, Ahmad Haidar Anuawar, Mohd Adiq Husainie Othman and Shahrul Mat Amin. The state government have also become the sponsors of the continental team Terengganu Pro Asia (TSG), which all shows that the State is commited towards producing, developing and exposing cycling talent on to the world stage.

It is hoped that the selection of the three finish locations and two start venues in Terengganu will further inspire young talents in the state to make steps towards becoming top cyclists in the future.

LTdL 2012 is expected to feature 22 professional teams including three local teams which are the national team, TSG and LeTua Cycling Team.

SHAHRIN AMIR TAKES THE CROSS COUNTRY CROWN

PUTRAJAYA - It was Shahrin’s sheer determination which led to his win in the inaugural Putrajaya Challenge 2011 with an impressive time of 1hr29m50s making him the champion in the men’s elite category of the Cross Country event held today at the Putrajaya Challenge Park.

He edged out 4 minutes ahead of second-placed Mohd Rafiuddin Zakaria (01hr33m41s) while Muhammad Raihaan Abd Aziz (01hrs33m58s) claimed third place respectively, both from Brunei Darussalam.

The 27 year old national mountain biker, already had his strategy planned out, he broke free right from the start and kept his pace right to the end. “I was ready to distance myself in the very start and when I reach the technical sections I was very careful because the route is very steep and dangerous.” He said.

‘Today’s race is very challenging, the trail are very technical and considered the best in Asia, competition here is fierce but I was very careful with the other riders.’ added Shahrin.

Shahrin hopes that after his performance he will be chosen to represent Malaysia to compete in bigger events. “My target for sure is to compete in the Sea Games in Indonesia if given a chance, two years ago I was chosen but there were some technical issues to be sorted and right now I will do my best.”

He also commended the organisation for choosing such a great track, “The trail here (Putrajaya Challenge Park) is really great, it’s the best as the training ground for mountain bike.”

The prize-giving ceremony was attended by MR Muhammad Fauzi Ahmad, Region Event and Sponsorship Manager of F&N Beverages Marketing Sdn Bhd who presented the prizes for all the category winners of the cross country event.

Putrajaya Challenge Event Director, En Mohd Nezzam Abd Malek is very happy with the turnout this year. “The number of entries for both downhill and cross country events was very encouraging, over 300 participants is a great start, and I do hope that next year we will have more international riders competing.”

“I would like to thank the sponsors who supported our event and also Putrajaya Municipal Council for preparing such a great location where the organisation and facilities provided is world-class, I hope that mountain bike enthusiasts and fans could come and experience firsthand the challenging route that have been specially created.” He added.

Putrajaya Challenge 2011 is jointly organized by the Putrajaya Cycling Association and Bat’s Creative Sdn Bhd, all the Downhill and Cross Country events are conducted in accordance with the International Cycling Union (UCI) regulations. Sponsors of the event are Fish Castle, Milo, PowerBar, 100 Plus, Gardenia, Shimano, Rodalink, Haslam Food and Beverage, and Wheelsport Management.

AUSTRALIAN DANIEL SPRAGUE IS THE PUTRAJAYA CHALLENGE DOWNHILL CHAMPION

30 April 2011, Putrajaya – After a long hard day or racing, Australian Daniel Sprague of Sonik Racer clocked in the fastest time of 01m 07.420s, making him the winner of the downhill Elite men Category beating Singaporean Tan Hong Chun who was in Second place (01m08.270s) and Adam Ahmed of Malaysia in third place (01m:08.500s).

The 2010 Australian Elite Masters Division BMX Champion was ecstatic when interviewed after the prize-giving ceremony, “I was great to win here, everything came together, the run was pretty smooth and I was quite fast in the sections that I wanted to be so in the end there was a lot of quick guys today and I was just happy to be able to be the fastest.”

With already two wins this year including the recent Red Bull Dark Knights 2011 race in Singapore, Daniel is enjoying his winning streak and hoping that it will continue. “I’ve done a few events, I pick the races that I wanna do, this year I’ve done 3 races, I did the Red Bull Dark knights 2011 race in Singapore and I won that one and had done one in Western Australia - BMX Championships and I had a win there so it’s really good and now I’m backed up with the Putrajaya Challenge, So everything is going really well I’ve won three out of three and I’ve got a couple of races in a couple of weeks in Western Australia, I hope I will do well there. I hope to be back in Malaysia in July and some races in the end of the year back in Australia, I’m hoping that I can keep this going.’

“My winning streak’s been going really well, it’s about time that’s I’ve put together a winning streak again, I’m happy to keep it going if I can.” He added.

Besides that, the inaugural Downhill Champion of Putrajaya Challenge was really impressed with the organisation of the event, “It was an excellent event, really well organized, really good track, they’re trying to get UCI status with this track so it’s a fantastic job that they did.“

With more than 157 riders, including a large number of overseas competitors from around the region competing in seven different categories today. In the finals, there was no stopping the 35-year-old Perth native as he completely out-run his class on the competition with the fastest time and clinching the first ever Putrajaya Challenge Downhill Elite Men title.

The prize-giving was presented by Datuk Naim Mohamad, the deputy president of the Malaysia National Cycling Federation (MNCF) and Mr Maniam Manikkam, vice president of the Malaysia National Cycling Federation (MNCF). The prizes were given out to the top 3 winners of the Downhill events consisting of categories which are Men's Elite, Men's Expert, Women's Sport (10-29 years), Men's Junior (under 18 years), Men's Master A (30-39 years), Men's Master B (40 years old above) and Men's Hard Tail.

On Sunday we will see the Cross Country (XC) events taking place involving the category of Men's Elite, Women's Elite, Men's Open (15-20 years), Junior Veteran (30-39 years) and Veteran (40 years and over).

Putrajaya Challenge 2011 is jointly organized by the Putrajaya Cycling Association and Bat’s Creative Sdn Bhd, all the Downhill and Cross Country events are conducted in accordance with the International Cycling Union (UCI) regulations.