PETALING JAYA, Feb 3 (Bernama) -- A fierce rivalry is expected for the blue
jersey as Andrea Guardini, who won the "king of the sprint" title last year,
yesterday confirmed his participation in this year''s Le Tour de Langkawi (LTDL).
LTDL chief executive officer, Emir Abdul Jalal said, besides Guardini from
Farnese Vini-Neri Sottoli team, riders from pro-tour outfits such as
Garmin-Cervelo of the United States and Pro Team Astana of Kazakhstan, would
also pose a challenge to Malaysian riders for the sprint title.
"For this edition, seasoned cyclist, Robert Foster of the United Healthcare
team who has won several stages in Le Tour de France, is expected to make a
comeback not only to win some stages but the overall title.
"But, don''t put on too much focus on foreign riders to win the blue jersey
this year. Local cyclists such as Anuar Manan and Mohd Harris Salleh also have a
chance to win the title.
"We should feel proud because Malaysia has Anuar Manan who emerged as the
first Asian rider to have won the sprint jersey in 2010," he told reporters
after a handing over sponsorships for the 2012 LTDL in Subang Jaya near here,
today.
-- MORE
SPORTS-CYCLING (LTDL) 2 (LAST) PETALING JAYA
Emir said the last minute confirmation by Guardini was because the Farnese
Vini-Neri Sottoli team had earlier wanted the organiser to pay 12,000 euros
(RM47,460.50) for an appearance fee in the 2012 LTDL but after discussions, the
organisers agreed to pay US$10,000 (RM30,235).
At today''s function, Proton Holdings Berhad handed over 150 units of various
Proton cars to be used as official cars for 2012 LTDL.
The 2012 LTDL, which enters its 17th edition, will involve 120 riders from
22 teams, including three local outfits - LeTua, Terengganu Cycling and
Malaysian team - in the 10 stages race, over 1,414 kilometres.
-- BERNAMA
AZN ZAS NAK ERE HA
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