Meitan Hompo GDR aims for best Asian rider crown in LTdL 2008
4/2/2008

KUALA LUMPUR – Meitan Hompo GDR aims to finish at the top of the standings in the best Asian rider for Le Tour de Langkawi 2008 which pedals off in Alor Star, Kedah on 9 Feb.

The Japanese team’s captain Shinichi Fukushima said it was important for riders to set ambitious targets and for his team, winning the Asian rider was theirs this time around.

“I know (Ng) Yong Li has said he wants to finish in the top five – but I told him to look at finishing No. 1 in the Asian classification,” said Shinichi, at the press conference to announce 100PLUS as the official isotonic drink for this year’s LTdL.

LTdL chief executive officer, Datuk Naim Mohamad, received the sponsorship pledge from Dato’ Kamal Harun, the National Corporate Affairs Manager, F&N Coca-Cola (M) Sdn Bhd. 100PLUS will provide drinks for all the riders and officials following the tour.

Shinichi’s famous brother, Koji, a stage winner in the LTdL, said: “We’ve had good training in Thailand. The climb up Fraser’s Hill will make the race an open field. I enjoy coming to Malaysia and it is really an honour to be part of the race again this year again.”

Koji, a favourite among local cycling fans, won a stage in 2005 and is determined to make an impact once again. Like Koji, Shinichi has also been a winner in the LTdL when he claimed a stage last year.

The Fukushima brothers have been a constant feature in Le Tour de Langkawi having made their first appearance back in 2002 and where this time round along with Yong Li from Malaysia will be in the colours of the Japan-based Meitan Hompo GDR team.

Yong Li joins the team after being with the Vitoria ASC the previous year.

“I hope that I can help the team win some good results this year,” said the 22-year-old Yong Li.

“And I’m looking forward to a better learning experience in Europe.”

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