Indian cyclists confident ahead of Track Asia Cup (Preview)

The second edition of the Track Asia Cup is all set to start at the Indoor Cycling Velodrome at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium here on Wednesday.

The 20-member Indian team is fully prepared for the three-day event. Tsunami survivor Deborah will lead India's challenge in the tournament and is confident of a winning start in front of the home crowd. She will start her campaign with the Time Trial and Team Spirit events while she will also take part in Keirin and Sprint.

The 20-year-old, who recently created history by winning a gold, three silvers and one bronze medal at the Taiwan Cup Track International Classic, said: "I am fully prepared to put up a good show and aim to finish on the top which will give me an opportunity to further qualify for some major international events.

"I am using this event to further improve my timing and chance to earn more points. My favourite events are 200 metres sprint and keirin. I am expecting a strong competition from the Koreans but I am ready to give them a tough time."

In the men's category, Sahil is expected to get a close contest from Uzbekistan while overall Kazakhstan is the toughest team in the event.

On the opening day, cyclists from different countries will compete in the point race, team pursuit and Keiren category.

"We are very hopeful to bring laurels to the country and our cyclists will also benefit in front of the home crowd. The track is world class and our cyclists are ready to give their personal best," India coach R.K. Sharma said.

The event will see participation of 13 teams from 10 countries -- Kazakhstan, Hong Kong, South Korea, Uzbekistan, Bangladesh, Thailand, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Nepal and hosts India. More than 150 cyclists will compete in the event.