KUCHING: Schoolboys Muhammad Karl Zarkashii Muhd Amini Sanjay and Mohd Danial Hafeez will test their skills at the Siol International Mountain Bike Challenge (SIMBC) 2025, representing Sarawak Cycling Powerhouse.
At just 14, Muhammad Karl from SMK Luak, Miri, has shown early promise in both cross-country (XC) and downhill events.
Training three times a week, he has set his sights firmly on the top step of the podium.
“My target is number one,” said Muhammad Karl, who has been passionate about cycling since young but only began training seriously earlier this year.
“I’m thankful to my coaches for preparing me, and I hope to make the SUKMA squad next year,” he told Sarawak Tribune at the track today.
Joining him is 11-year-old Mohd Danial Hafeez from Sematan, one of the youngest riders in the team.
A pupil of SK Sematan, Mohd Danial only started competing a few months ago but quickly discovered a love for the sport.
“At first it just felt fun, but over time I grew more interested,” he said.
Now, he trains almost daily in Sematan, riding six days a week. His competition category for SIMBC is still being finalised.
Both Muhammad Karl and Mohd Danial are part of the 25-strong Sarawak Cycling Powerhouse squad, managed by Ariana Nurminda Arifin, which is aiming for multiple podium finishes at the 10th edition of SIMBC from August 21-24.
The event brings together riders from Singapore, Brunei, the Philippines, Japan, Thailand and Indonesia – making it one of the most competitive editions yet.
For the two schoolboys, it will be an invaluable chance to gain experience against international riders while carrying Sarawak’s colours on homeground.
