Cambodian mountain bikers have shown their strength ahead of the 32nd SEA Games, after claiming eight awards from two events in Thailand.
The event in Phichit province, Thailand was their last international hit out before the May games, which are being held on their home soil for the first historic time.
The Royal Cup Thailand MTB National Championship and the 2023 Thailand Mountain Bike Cup 1 both provided an excellent rehearsal ahead of the games.
“These two international events were a great opportunity for our cyclists to strengthening their capacities and spirits,” said Nou Chamroeun, secretary-general of the Cambodia Cycling Federation.
The 2023 Thailand Mountain Bike Cup 1 was held on March 1-2, and the team were able to secure two medals.
On the first day of the Royal Cup Thailand MTB National Championship on March 4, the Cambodian mountain bikers secured six medals, with several first to fifth places.
The closeness of the two competitions meant that they did not have the legs to compete during the March 5 elimination event.
Nonetheless, Chamroeun said that the events had renewed the medal hopes of Team Cambodia.
“Claiming eight awards from these two events in Thailand gives us hope of taking medals at the May games. The medals can be gold, silver or bronze – we will gladly take them,” he added.
Cambodia sent nine cyclists to participate in the Thai events. Accompanying Khim Meng Long, Chan Chai Fong, Krouch Va, Mao Piseth, Muth Bros Sopheaktra, Ken Malay, Yuth Kanika, Vuth Srenith and team captain Eng Socheata were team manager Pheng Polin and coach Ouch Sokvibol.
The team is now ensconced in their training camp at the foot of the Kulen Mountains in Siem Reap province, where they will remain until the SEA Games gets underway.
