The Samseng Brothers – Siblings in Success

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Terengganu State Government (TSG) Team @ Jelajah 1 Malaysia 2014

…there is no real rivalry between them during racing. “It just depends on who is the better rider on the day of the race.”

Arriving at the start, Zamri and Harrif both get their race equipment on, and head for the sign in. For them, this is where the race begins in earnest. A final pre-race briefing is held with their coach for any last minute discussion in race strategy and tactics. “The coach will brief us on what to expect during the race, and what we should be doing if any particular situation arises. He also gives us a pep talk at this time, and boosts our morale,” says Zamri. Harrif continues, “As we start the race, depending on the distance, we usually take the pace quite easy, and we place a close eye on our rivals. This is when we find out who is strong on the day, and who is suffering.”

All the team members have a specific role to play during the race. As captain, Zamri keeps on an eye on the other teams, and reminds the team of their race plan. “One of the main roles the team has to play is to chase down breakaways. If a group tries to get away from the peloton, the team will chase them down and bring them back. At the same time, we have to make sure our sprinters stay fresh for the finish,” says Zamri. Harrif adds, “we also consume a lot of energy drinks and energy bars during the race. We pick up our food at the feeding station for the long stages, or sometimes get supplies from the team car when given permission by the Race Commissar.”

“Our race is actually quite easy,” says Zamri, “where we put in our effort is during training. We train hard, with a lot of mileage. We also do a lot of overseas races, such as the Tour of Philippines, for the exposure. I also did a training stint in Australia which helped me a lot.” TSG doesn’t practise team orders, according to Zamri. “Whoever is strongest on the day will get the finish,” he says, “and the team will do our best to get him there.” “It is always a team effort,” adds Harrif. The brothers says there is no real rivalry between them during racing. “It just depends on who is the better rider on the day of the race. If Harrif wins, then his success is also my success as team captain,” says Zamri with a smile.

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