KUCHING: Kedah's Nur Fitrah Shaari surprised herself by winning the Malaysia Games (Sukma) women's criterium against a competitive field at Politeknik Kuching here today.
Fitrah secured 20 points to clinch the gold medal, finishing ahead of Yeong Zhen Yi from the Federal Territories, who earned 13 points.
Terengganu's Ameera Alya Zahirrudin took bronze with 12 points.
The 20-year-old Fitrah admitted she did not expect to win gold due to the high level of competition in the criterium.
"I'm really grateful for this gold medal. I was aiming for a medal but didn't think I could win.
"The competition was intense after each sprint, with everyone attacking hard. It was a tiring race, but I managed to hold on," she told reporters.
The event featured 40 riders racing over 18 laps on a 1.8-kilometre course along the Pehin Sri Adenan Satem Highway, covering a total distance of 32.4km, with six sprints throughout.
"I want to dedicate this win to Kedah and everyone who helped us. This gold medal is for all of you," she added.
It was Fitrah's second gold medal after winning the team road race on Friday. She also claimed silver in the individual category.