With the Covid-19 pandemic putting the brakes on life as we know it, national track cyclist Azizulhasni Awang is taking on Ramadan in a different gear this year.

Azizulhasni, who is based in Melbourne with other national elite squad members, admitted that he is going through Ramadan at a slower pace this year.

“Ramadan will be a unique experience (for Malaysians) this year as there will be no terawih prayers in mosques and no (Ramadan) bazaars,” said Azizulhasni.

“But above all that is happening around us (pandemic), we should be thankful to just be here for it.

“It’s a bit different for me as well this year as I can spend more time with my family.

“Training at home (in Melbourne) gives me more flexibility but I do feel a little strange at the same time.

“This is because, in previous years, I am usually very busy with training (at the track) even during Ramadan.

“It feels easier because, in previous years, I was training at full steam in the gym and also at the velodrome. Not having to travel to the gym and velodrome makes a lot of difference.”

With the Tokyo Olympics postponed to next year, Azizulhasni will have time to reset and refocus his preparations for the Games.

The Dungun-born, who won bronze in the keirin at 2016 Rio Olympics, is expected to challenge for the title in the event in Tokyo.

The 32-year-old did well to win two bronze, in the keirin and individual sprint, at the Berlin World Championships last month before the Covid-19 pandemic put a stop to sport activities.