Lao cyclist Phoutthasone Inthamith has just returned from Thailand, where he earned a fourth-place finish in his latest competition. The 45-year-old athlete competed against over 800 participants and now hopes to qualify for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, the United States.
The competition concluded on 16 February, where Laos’ Top Cycle Team, led by Phouthasack Hung Heuang, competed with four athletes.
“Each athlete has put in a lot of effort in this competition, despite the challenging circular cycling route and strong winds,” he said. “This achievement was beyond our expectations, and we will continue striving to create more opportunities to win in the future.”
The event was part of the 44th Asian Road Cycling Championships, 31st Asian Junior Road Cycling Championships, and 13th Asian Para Road Cycling Championship 2025, with 27 countries participating. This competition served as a key qualifier for the 2028 Olympics.
Phoutthasone secured third runner-up in the Men’s Athletic Individual Time Trial Master category (ages 45-49).
“I am so proud to bring victory to Laos,” Phoutthasone said. “At first I thought that I was cycling for health, then I really tried to push myself to join the competition and become a full-fledged athlete until now.”
Phoutthasone highlighted the importance of discipline and dedication in his sport.
“Before the competition, discipline and constant training are the most important. I don’t feel too much pressure because I just do my best and follow the plan,” he said.
Cycling also comes with its own set of challenges, particularly the varying weather conditions of each competition. Depending on the terrain, athletes may face mountains, flat roads, or a mix of both.
“Every time after a competition, we have to analyze with the coach and the team to share new knowledge that we have experienced, what our strengths and weaknesses are,” he said. “After this competition, we need to improve in many areas, such as physically, we need to prepare and train harder.”
Looking to the future, Phoutthasone shared his ambition to expand his athletic endeavors.
“Looking to the future, my goal is to do triathlons: swimming, cycling, and running,” he added.