SHAH ALAM, Oct 4 — In a sport that demands balance, agility, and body control, physical attributes are often considered an important factor in determining an athlete’s ability.
For Wan Ayden Faiq Wan Azizul Fitri, his stocky build had once led some people to question his ability to perform difficult moves in BMX Flatland.
However, the teenager, affectionately known as ‘Ayden Bambam’, chose to answer those doubts not with words, but through his ability on the bicycle.
At just 12 years old, he emerged as the champion in the Men’s BMX Flatland event during the 2026 Selangor Malaysia Games (SUKMA), proving that body size is not a barrier to success in the sport he loves.
“I proved it by performing difficult moves and taking part in various competitions until I managed to win and silence what people were saying,” Ayden told Media Selangor.
The teenager’s interest in BMX began at an early age after he often watched his father Wan Azizul Fitri Zulkifli, 46, ride the bicycle.
From merely watching, Ayden began trying it himself, then received encouragement from Azizul to learn various basic BMX Flatland moves.
His journey began with a bicycle costing around RM250, before the equipment was gradually upgraded as his skills developed.
For Ayden, price is not the main consideration, as the bicycle needs to suit his physique and be comfortable to control, particularly when performing technical moves.
BMX Flatland is not simply about the ability to perform impressive moves. Balance, body control, stamina, and breathing must work in harmony as athletes perform a series of moves on their bicycles.
As such, he not only trains in BMX but also swims to improve his stamina and breathing control.
Ayden's efforts paid off when he scored 86.33 points to emerge champion at the 22nd edition of SUKMA on August 21.
The victory came after a closely fought contest with a Penang representative, who scored 81.33 points — a difference of just five points.
More than a gold medal, the achievement meant a lot to him because Ayden made his parents proud, who had always supported him throughout his sporting journey.
“I was very happy to make my parents proud when I was crowned champion. They have given me a lot of support throughout my journey in BMX.
“Besides that, both my coaches, Nor Aszeril Mohd Nor and Muhammad Saiful Ariff, have also helped and supported me throughout my participation in competitions,” he said.
Interest nurtured from a young age
For Azizul, his son’s physical build has never been a reason to limit the Selangor athlete’s interest.
He began exposing Ayden to BMX videos at an early age, then recognised his potential when he was four.
From then on, he was given the opportunity to try the sport and build his confidence, with training lasting at least an hour a day.
Weekends were used for training with the BMX community, allowing Ayden to learn from other riders and gain experience.
“His interest in BMX is more important than negative comments from outsiders. I have always guided Ayden and learnt alongside him to perform various moves,” Azizul said.
Taking part in competitions has also been part of Ayden's development. Each performance is reviewed to identify weaknesses and improve his technique.
For his father, parental support must go beyond words of encouragement, requiring parents to be willing to spend time and understand their children’s interests.
“Parental support alone is not enough. We need to turn our children’s interests into a commitment to continue encouraging them and developing their talents,” he said.
After conquering the SUKMA stage, Ayden now wants to test his abilities at a higher level by competing in the FISE World Series in Shanghai, China, from October 15 to October 18 in the BMX Flatland Junior category.
As he pursues that dream, the SK Sungai Kertas, Batu Caves student remains determined not to neglect his studies.
“I will continue with BMX for the future, but academics will remain my priority,” he said.
