Khairy goes riding with Malaysian cyclists

Malaysian international riders training here were pleasantly surprised when Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin accepted an invitation to ride with them along the streets of this city early Tuesday.

It was a bitterly cold and wet morning and Khairy gratefully donned a long sleeved-top given to him to keep warm.

After the ride to St Kilda and back to his hotel, the minister invited the riders to have breakfast when he briefed them on Malaysia's cycling programme and what was expected of them.

"The riders really enjoyed the experience of chatting with the minister while on their one-hour training ride.

"They were also happy the minister took time off from his busy schedule to meet them," cycling coach John Beasley told Bernama.

Malaysian Consul-General Datuk Dr Mohd Rameez Yahaya said he often kept in touch with the cyclists, describing them as a cheerful group.

Khairy is in Melbourne to address Malaysian students at their three-day convention here.