The peloton passes Kampot’s iconic durian roundabout during the 2024 National Cycling Championship, held in Kampot province from January 24 to 26. CCF
Officials from the Cambodian Cycling Federation (CCF) have shared how the 2024 National Cycling Championships – held in Kampot province from January 24 to 26 – served as a critical test for national team members ahead of the 33rd SEA Games, which will be held in Thailand this December.
The Kingdom’s best mountain bikers and road cyclists tested their mettle at this year’s championship, as their preparation for the SEA Games intensified.
Nou Chamroeun, CCF secretary-general, announced that this year’s competition featured over 20 associations and clubs, a decrease of 10 from the 2023 event.
He believed the challenging road conditions and selection-focused nature of the competition were factors in the decline. The events tested the capabilities of national team members, with the results showing their determination and adaptability to challenging terrain – essential for the SEA Games.
“This year’s championships showcased a significant improvement in the skill levels and techniques of our athletes, especially the national team, compared to last year. Their performance on challenging terrains, such as Bokor Mountain, was noticeably better,” said Chamroeun.
A mountain biker descends a section of the Bokor Mountain course during the championships. CCF
While acknowledging the improvements, Chamroeun emphasised that the current performance levels and times of the national team are not yet competitive enough to place them in medal contention at the SEA Games. The federation plans to enhance their readiness through intensified training camps and participation in international competitions.
“Our athletes delivered commendable results during this championship, but we don’t consider it sufficient preparation for the SEA Games in Thailand. We need to strengthen our team’s capabilities, especially in mountain biking, where we won one silver and one bronze at the 2023 SEA Games,” he said.
The federation plans to send the national team to competitions in Thailand to familiarise the athletes with local conditions. These efforts aim to improve Cambodia’s chances of achieving medals at the SEA Games.
During the 2023 SEA Games – hosted by Cambodia – Khim Menglong made history by securing one silver and one bronze in mountain biking.
Officials and stakeholders attend the opening ceremony of the 2024 National Cycling Championship. CCF
The federation has designated Kampot province as the training base for the national team.
Chamroeun praised the local administration and sponsors, including Miracle City World Group, Zummer beverages and the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, for their excellent collaboration, which ensured the national championship’s success.
The Ministry of Interior Club emerged victorious at this year’s competition, claiming 3 gold medals, 1 silver and 2 bronze across 8 events.
They were followed by the Kirirum Cycling Club with 2 golds and a silver, and the Electro Racing Club with 1 gold, 1 silver, and 2 bronze. The Kampot Cycling Club secured 1 gold and 1 bronze, while Cambodia Biking Club ranked fifth with 1 gold medal.
