The Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games are just a few days away, which will begin from 24 August to 5 September 2021.
Truth to be told, the Paralympic athletes are some of the most perseverant people in the world, who go to extreme lengths to make their dreams and the country proud.
Having earned a slot into the Games, Southeast Asian Games, and also Asian Track Cycling Championship medalist, national track cyclist Zuhairi Ahmad Tarmizi shares his preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.
How are you feeling ahead of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games?
I am grateful and feel very happy because my hard work pays off. And this is also my first appearance at the Paralympics. My training is exhausting and I put a lot of effort all this time to qualify for Tokyo 2020. I am really excited about it.
What events will you be participating in Tokyo 2020?
I will be participating in 1km Time Trial, Team Sprint, and Road Individual Time Trial.
How is your preparation for Tokyo 2020?
My preparation and training have been smooth, but they can be challenging due to the lockdown and pandemic.
Compared to other international races, what mental preparation have you made for the Paralympics?
With my many years of racing experience, I think I am mentally prepared for the Paralympics.
Compared to your usual training, is there anything new in your training for Tokyo 2020?
Of course, we have incorporated a different training program into the usual program.
Since it will be a pandemic Paralympics, what are the challenges have you faced during your training?
I guess every athlete is facing the same problem due to the pandemic. The biggest challenge for my team and I is not being able to ride outdoor, especially on the road. Since I will be participating in a road event, I need to train and ride on the road. We have been training on the trainer.
Who do you think your biggest opponent will be this year?
There’re many competitors for me for Tokyo 2020. Riders from Spain, United States, China, and Great Britain are very strong riders. I think they are my biggest opponents.
What is your motivation to keep going?
I always work hard to fight at a higher level. I take every race seriously and keep making improvements.
What do you aim to achieve in Tokyo?
My target is to get a medal and be on the podium.
Race Schedule:
Athlete: Zuhairi Ahmad Tarmizi
Cycling Track: Izu Velodrome
Date: 26 August 2021 | Time: 10.00 – 16.40 | Event: Men’s 1KM Time Trial (C4-5) | Final
Date: 28 August 2021 | Time: 10.00 – 13.15 | Mixed C1-5 750m Team Sprint | Qualifying & Final
Cycling Road: Fuji International Speedway
Date: 31 August 2021 | Time: 08.00 – 17.15 | Men’s C1 Time Trial | Final
