KOTA TINGGI – It was a massive turnout today at the L’Étape Malaysia by Tour de France in Desaru Coast, Johor as the international event was held for the first time in the country.
Nearly 5,000 cyclists took part in the 140km and 60km races either as individuals or team racers.
In an exclusive interview with The Vibes, ambassador of France to Malaysia Roland Galharague said he was amazed by the crowd and their acceptance of the event was “way beyond the expectation of the organisers.”
“This is good cooperation with the organisation which runs the Tour de France.
“I hope it will bring new fans to Tour de France which is one the most broadcasted sports events in the world.
“All it takes is a great destination, such as Desaru that is close to the sea, the area is quiet, and it has a very nice view,” he added.
L’Étape Malaysia has been recorded as the world’s second-largest L’Étape by Tour de France series event with nearly 5,000 registered participants.
It offers riders a choice of two routes − 140km and 60km − and the option to participate as solo riders or as part of a team.
Of the 2,806 participants registered for the 140km route, 284 of them were female riders. Meanwhile, 317 out of 1,958 participants for the 60km were women.
Muhammad Elmi Jumari took home the yellow jersey as the fastest in men’s individual, clocking 3 hours and 11 minutes.
“The initial strategy was to accompany my friend to finish the race, but as we reached the finish line I came a little bit too close to his timing and ended up winning the race,” he told the press after the race.
The 32-year-old, who is also a constable at Bukit Aman Royal Malaysia Police, said he aimed to take part in the coming Le Tour de Langkawi that is expected to be held in October.
Meanwhile, Yeong Zhen Yi clocked 3 hours and 14 minutes as the best in individual women’s category.
As for the team category, Team Kayuh comprising Tan Sook Fang, Chong Yee Kuan, and Tan Hui Jin was recorded as the fastest women’s team at 3 hours and 48 minutes.
Meanwhile, Mohd Nazri Muhamad, Muhammad Syafiq Syahrill Izwan Khoo, and Mohd Zukri Tahir from Nacho Maglia Cycling Team won the best time for the men’s team, 3 hours and 13 minutes.
Galharague, at the same time, added that L’Étape Malaysia also brought cycling fans together and maintain good relationships with the state government.
“It comes at a moment when cycling is increasingly popular in Malaysia.
“In France, the Tour de France is a festive occasion where you bring your family, watch the race together, and cheer on the cyclists as they pass by small villages.
“Just like in Desaru, it’s a nice day out with the family.”
Other than being able to participate in free French language classes, participants and visitors took part in a bit of French culture through their free cookery classes led by a French pastry chef.
They also took the opportunity to sample a bit of French food and live French music performances.
“It’s a great success and I’m sure this would lead to this event being replicated, certainly in the years to come,” Galharague added.
The Vibes is the official media partner for L’Étape Malaysia and is participated in two teams sponsored by the Vinod Sekhar Foundation.
The Vibes is a PETRA News company which also publishes the Bahasa Malaysia portal Getaran. – The Vibes, June 4, 2022
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