News for February 2, 2003

Andrea Tafi at LTdL, Telekom Malaysia generous

By Tommy Campbell

Tafi turns to teaching

LTdL Executive Chairman and Tafi
Photo: © Mark Sharon

Present at a press conference at the Le Tour de Langkawi was Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Hishammuddin Tun Hussein, cycling legend Francesco Moser, Executive Chairman Datuk Wan Lokman Dato ‘Paduka Wan Ibrahim, Race Controller Alan Rushton and... Andrea Tafi?

Tafi's new team CSC may not be around, but the Italian star - a perennial crowd favourite - made his way to Langkawi all the same, albeit as race guest. He was in Australia for the Tour Down Under and flew to Malaysia to lend his support and watch the action in conjunction with the race's organising body, First Cartel.

The Classics hero from Tuscany said he was disappointed at not being able to participate, saying, "to me it is not a wise move," referring to his team's decision to miss the UCI 2.2 ranked event.

Tafi first competed here in 1997 with the Mapei-GB team and has since been a regular at the race, developing a strong affinity with the country and the organisers of the LTdL as a consequence. He said: "Malaysia and Asia had benefited enormously from the Le Tour de Langkawi."

"Malaysian cyclists are progressing well, but they need proper guidance from professionals. For that, I'm willing to share my experience and help the local riders develop further."

"The organisers First Cartel have done a great job in organising the Telekom Malaysia Le Tour de Langkawi, and personally, I believe that cycling is coming up strongly in Asia," said Tafi.

Telekom Malaysia generous

Title sponsor Telekom Malaysia has fulfilled its commitment to give away bicycles to needy school children that excel in their studies, with the first batch handed out to school children during the opening stage in Langkawi.

The presentation of the bikes is part of Telekom’s community programme and activities in conjunction with the 10 day tour.

Telekom have contributed RM10 million to the Tour, making it the major contributor and title sponsor, and has been so since 2001. Other nationwide activities to be organised by Telekom during the Tour include colouring contests for children, and a radio quiz and photography contest.

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