Irfan carries Malaysia's hopes for first Asian Games athletics medal

NAGOYA: National discus star Irfan Shamsuddin will carry Malaysia's hopes of securing its first athletics medal at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games when he competes in the final on Thursday.

Malaysia Athletics coaching programme coordinator Manshahar Abdul Jalil said Irfan is mentally and physically prepared to face a fierce battle in his favourite event.

He said the discus final is expected to be highly competitive, with several countries fielding some of Asia's best athletes, but believes Irfan's preparation and experience could help him challenge for a podium finish.

"This is Irfan's final and the competition will certainly be intense, as several countries are also fielding their best athletes," said Manshahar.

"Mentally and physically, Irfan is well prepared for his favourite event. We are hoping for a good performance from Irfan and that he can bring home a podium medal."

Irfan's chances of making the podium appear promising based on the current Asian rankings, with the 31-year-old currently ranked third in Asia.

He trails China's Abuduaini Tuergong, who occupies the top spot, while Japan's Masateru Yugami is ranked second.

In June, Irfan broke his own national record with a throw of 62.87m at the Nemzetkozi Atletikai Balatkon Bajnoksag in Veszprem, Hungary.

Besides Irfan, two other Malaysian athletes will begin their athletics campaigns on Thursday, with sprint stars Azeem Fahmi and Umaira Subri competing in the men's 100m heats.

Manshahar said both athletes are well prepared and hopes they can progress to the semi-finals.

"They are mentally prepared because we know the Asian Games require a high level of preparation, and athletes need to be ready to compete.

"We are hoping for a good performance from Azeem and Umaira and that they can advance to the semi-finals," he said.