Cyclists aim to deliver haul of six golds

HANIF HASSAN

- 

The track team during practice.

Thailand's cycling federation has set an ambitious target of grabbing at least six gold medals at the 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, with confidence high across track, road, mountain bike and BMX disciplines.

The mood in camp is buoyant, bolstered by venue upgrades, federation support and athletes openly declaring their intent to deliver.

Gen Decha Hemkrasri, president of the Thai Cycling Association and a senior figure in Asian cycling, insists the team is well looked after, with allowances, accommodation and equipment provided in full.

"We want athletes to feel secure and motivated," he said, after inspecting the Hua Mak velodrome in Bangkok, which will host the track events. Renovations there, including safety barriers and resurfacing, have been completed to international standards. Mountain bike and BMX tracks in Chon Buri and Bangkok have also been refurbished.

The federation's medal forecast is spread across disciplines: two golds in mountain bike, two in BMX, two on the road and at least one on the track.