The interview is introduced as follow:
Reporter: Good morning, Mirsamad. How do you feel after winning the yellow jersey of the tournament?
Mirsamad: I feel very happy. During the race, I have received much support from my teammates and the training board.
Reporter: For what reasons have you come to Vietnam?
Mirsamad: I have participated in cycling tournaments in Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia and China. Before this tournament, I made a call to my friend Ali who is a member of the Loc Troi team as I just wanted to experience new challenges. Ali then introduced me to the training board and I have been admitted to the team since March 2019.
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Cyclists Mirsamad and Le Thanh Liem |
Reporter: Before coming to Vietnam, what had you known about our country?
Mirsamad: Ali gave me some information about Vietnam. I myself learned about your country from the Internet and I have known that Vietnam underwent a long period of war. I respect Vietnamese people’s spirit and will to fight foreign invaders and to win all the wars.
Reporter: What do you like most about Vietnam?
Mirsamad: I like many things, from the people to the streets, the landmarks and the food.
Reporter: Is this just a compliment?
Mirsamad: No, it is not. I am even planning to stay in Vietnam for a long time.
Reporter: And have you told your plan to the training board?
Mirsamad: Actually, the club’s leaders told me that they would like me to become a member of the team. Coach Le Thanh Liem said to me: “Mirsamad, you have shown professionalism in training and in competition. Do you want to be a member of the team for a long time?” At that time, I replied: “Of course, but I am 34 years old now. I may not contribute much to the team.” But Liem told me: “I know. I have seen how you have meals and train scientifically so I am sure you can race in high-record cycling tournaments for 3 or 4 more years. We also want you to support us in training young cyclists in the future.” I was so happy that I could not utter a word.
Reporter: So you must have a concrete plan to stay for a long time in Vietnam?
Mirsamad: Actually, I just want to win cycling tournament first and think of other plans later.
Reporter: What about getting married to a Vietnamese wife?
Mirsamad: (laugh). I hope so. Vietnamese girls are very beautiful.
Reporter: I know you are a fairly famous cyclist. Can you tell me about your achievements?
Mirsamad: To be honest, I don’t remember all. But some notable records include: the yellow jersey of the Tour de Taiwan and the green jersey of the Tour de Langkawi Malaysia. Most recent ones are the red jersey and the overall third place of the Ho Chi Minh city Television Cycling Tournament.
Reporter: What is your next plan?
Mirsamad: There are many tournaments from now to the end of the year. I will try my best and follow all instructions of the training board.
Reporter: Thank you, Mirsamad!
Translated by Duc Phan – Trong Dat