Haziq Junaidy looks to keep momentum running in Ironman 70.3 Langkawi 

LANGKAWI – National triathlete Muhammad Haziq Junaidy will be using the Ironman 70.3 Langkawi as part of his training for the 2023 SEA Games in Cambodia. 

But that does not mean the 27-year-old will be taking it easy in the race tomorrow as he intends to be the first Malaysian to cross the line. 

Speaking to media at the Pelangi Beach Resort and Spa today, Haziq said he hopes to finish within 4 hours and 25 minutes for the half-distance Ironman race. 

“My personal best for Ironman 70.3 Langkawi is 4 hours 41 minutes which I set in 2018. 

“So this time, if I can do better than that, it would be fantastic as I also hope to hold the title for best Malaysian finisher in the event,” he said. 

After coming in overall first place recently at the Powerman Malaysia short distance, Haziq noted that things have been quite hectic for him. 

“With all the training I’ve been doing, it surely has contributed to my fatigue.

“I will also start preparing for the 2023 SEA Games in three weeks’ time, so the race tomorrow is part of my training as well,” he said. 

Haziq skipped the last Ironman Malaysia event in 2019 as he was in the midst of preparing for the 2019 Philippines SEA Games. 

“There was a training block during that time, so I was not allowed to participate in events – especially any events that were over the Olympic distance. 

“Fortunately, consistent training is a good thing for me because I get to keep my momentum during that time, otherwise my fitness levels would have certainly dropped. 

“Consistently training also helps my body to stay adjusted to the high levels of fitness and not go into shock when it is suddenly subjected to high-intensity workouts,” he added. 

Haziq represented Malaysia at the 2022 Hanoi SEA Games in the duathlon event but noted that he prefers triathlons compared to the two-event race. 

“It is much more painful to join duathlon events because you need to run twice. 

“Even though I love to run, it can be quite painful to continue running right after getting off the bike. 

“Running is my forte. So for tomorrow’s race, I will pace myself in the swim course and go all out in the bike and run stages,” said Haziq. 

Tomorrow’s race will also feature Malaysian celebrity Muhamad Alif Mohd Satar, who will be joining a relay team. – The Vibes, November 4, 2022