Cambodia’s fast-rising junior Kim Chantou led an inspiring performance over the weekend by the Kingdom’s cyclists, topping the junior section in a highly competitive cycling event involving participants from China, Singapore and India, aside from the hosts.

The event, which was held in Myanmar’s second city Mandalay, saw Cambodian men’s U23 hope Phyuth Yoeun settle for a runner-up berth, while two other juniors filled in the frame with a third and fourth place finish behind Chantou.

‘All riders finished strongly’

The team returned to Phnom Penh on Monday, according to coach Frank Zgoznik, who attributed the success to the support the squad and the Cambodian Cycling Federation received from the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia and the Federation’s sponsors Khmer Breweries.

“All riders finished strongly in the two races and did very well to perform tactically and skilfully against the other teams,” Zgoznik said.

Phnom Penh-based Kim Chantou made a spectacular solo breakaway soon after the start. He held on to win as teammates Von Savin and Bun Sengpav took third and fourth place.

In the men’s U23 race, the Kampong Speu-based Phyuth Yoeun was attacked many times but never flinched to hold onto his second place.

The main challenge came from China, with India racing well to grab third place.