Track World Cup: Na Ah-reum says Asians can match dominant Europeans, Americans in team pursuit
- South Korean cycling star sees ‘no big gap’ in physical ability or mental toughness
- Na wants to prove Asians can challenge in team pursuit at Tokyo Olympics
Winning four gold medals for South Korea at the 2018 Asian Games made Na Ah-reum an overnight star in her country, but the experienced cyclist insists she has a lot more to offer.
Undoubtedly the best rider for South Korea and possibly in all of Asia after her recent performances, the 28-year-old – who is in Hong Kong for the final round of this season’s track World Cup series – aims to help her country qualify for the women’s team pursuit at the Olympic Games for the first time next year.
Her hopes have been boosted by a signing a contract with professional world tour team Ale Cipollini of Italy.
“Cycling was never a prominent sport back home but after getting four golds for South Korea, my life did change,” said Na, who was the best performer for all of South Korea in Jakarta.
“More people now know the sport and of course more people know me even on the streets and it seems we are getting more popular.