MOTORCYCLING: NSI boost for riders

MOHD Zulfahmi Khairuddin and Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah's performances in the motorcycling scene have earned motorsports a handsome package from the government that will boost development.

AirAsia-SIC-Ajo’s Zulfahmi Khairuddin

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Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek yesterday announced a four-part package that now elevates drivers, riders and teams into the forefront of Malaysian sport, alongside Olympic athletes.

Of most significance is the support package promised for drivers and motorcycle riders performing at the international level, who will now receive assistance, support and treatment from the National Sports Institute (NSI).

"Previously they have all been taking care of themselves or via sponsors, but now the government feels the NSI can also play a role in helping in areas of physical preparation, conditioning and treatment of injuries," said Ahmad Shabery.

The ministry is also studying with the National Sports Council (NSC) an allowance package similar to what is received by athletes preparing under programmes like the Road to Rio de Janeiro programme for motorsports.

The Sports Minister yesterday hosted a luncheon to congratulate Hafizh for his sensational performance in the Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix last Sunday and to celebrate the birthday of JK Racing Asia Series championship leader Nabil Jan Al Jeffri, who turned 19 yesterday.

Nabil left for India yesterday, where the JKRAS will be run as a support event for the Formula One Indian Grand Prix this weekend, leading the championship by 42 points and looking good to seal the championship.

Moto3 rider Zulfahmi, who is away for the AirAsia Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix this weekend, was not present.

Ahmad Shabery also announced an RM15 million budget already approved by the Cabinet for the construction of the first of four drag racing strips in the country, for which his ministry is scouting for a suitable plot of land within range of the Klang Valley.

Ahmad Shabery also announced that the National Youth Skills Institute (IKBN) in Temerloh has become the first of those centres to provide training for motorsports-related workforce. By Arnaz M. Khairul

Read more: MOTORCYCLING: NSI boost for riders - Racing - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/sports/racing/motorcycling-nsi-boost-for-riders-1.161911#ixzz2AK6HJVA3

GOLF / CIMB CLASSIC: Double trouble for Crane

PAIN: Former champion playing despite a back injury

American Ben Crane will tee off with compatriot Kevin Stadler today.

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BEN Crane was the surprise package in the first edition of the CIMB Classic in 2010, but this time around, the American will not only be battling the top field at the Mines Resort and Golf Club, but also a back problem.

"It's great to be back as the Mines is a very special place for me and my family. Also, I have made lot of friends here. It's just really cool to be back and rekindle some fond memories on this golf course, obviously," said Crane.

"It's in unbelievable condition. I'm sure you've heard a lot of players say that it's in the best condition they've ever seen.

"There is more grass on it, and the greens are really true. The fairways are really lush, and I know they shut the course down for a month to get it ready and they did a good job."

However, his back is not in such great shape.

"I've been sidelined for the last couple of months with a back injury. I had an injury to one of my discs, so I haven't played a lot but did I play last week. I feel very good about my game.

"And I had a great pro-am today (yesterday). Actually made two eagles (on the 11th and 17th) which was kind of fun.

"But at the same time, I will miss my regular caddie (Joel Stock) as his dad passed away last week and so he went home.

"So Jonathan Byrd's caddie (Adam Hayes) is carrying the bag for me this week. It's tough not to have Joel here, but he's with his family and where he needs to be."

Read more: GOLF / CIMB CLASSIC: Double trouble for Crane - Other - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/sports/other/golf-cimb-classic-double-trouble-for-crane-1.161893#ixzz2AK5Qwi41

Doktor suruh buka baju

LAPOR...Nurul menunjukkan laporan polis dibuatnya.

JOHOR BAHRU: “Disebabkan mempercayainya, saya hanya mengikut arahan apabila diminta membuka baju dan coli, namun dia meramas buah dada saya hingga saya berasa sakit.
“Saya mula curiga dan takut apabila doktor itu menyatakan saiz buah dada saya besar selain mengajak saya melakukan hsubungan seks,” kata ibu tunggal hanya mahu dikenali sebagai Nurul, 34, yang mendakwa dicabul seorang doktor sebuah hospital swasta, di sini.
Menurutnya, kejadian berlaku kira-kira jam 10.30 pagi Jumaat lalu ketika dia ke hospital berkenaan untuk mendapatkan rawatan susulan berikutan masalah darah tinggi, hidung berdarah, sakit perut dan sukar membuang air.

Nurul berkata, dia mengenali doktor berusia lingkungan 40-an itu kerana pernah mendapatkan rawatan daripadanya sebelum ini.

Menurutnya, sebelum kejadian mencabul itu berlaku, doktor terbabit mengarahkannya berbaring sambil memberitahu mahu memeriksa tekaknya.

Dapatkan akhbar Harian Metro untuk berita selanjutnya.
Oleh Siti Nadirah Hafidzin
nadirah@hmetro.com.my