RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian cycling team made a strong statement at the opening of the 2026 Track Asia Cup in Chennai, India, securing two gold medals and a bronze across men's categories during the three-day event, held from January 29-31.

Leading the charge was Bernard Benyamin Van Aert, who clinched gold in the men’s elite point race with a total of 48 points. The 28-year-old edged out India’s Dinesh Kumar and Nirai Kumar in a 30-kilometer contest, with the hosts settling for silver and bronze after scoring 47 and 45 points respectively, Antara reported.

Bernard’s narrow victory not only marked a promising start to his 2026 season but also set the tone for his campaign ahead of the Asian Games in Aichi–Nagoya later this year.

The triumph carried added significance for Bernard, serving as redemption after his disappointment at the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand, where he managed only bronze in the same discipline.

Indonesia’s second gold came through Awang Prana Pradipta, who dominated the men’s elite scratch race. Awang crossed the finish line first in 14 minutes 12.466 seconds over the 10-kilometer distance, leaving India’s Sahil Kumar with silver and teammate Julian Abi Manyu with bronze.

In total, Indonesia fielded seven riders, five men and two women. Alongside Bernard, Awang, and Julian, the men’s squad included Dika Alif Dhentaka and Yosandy D. Oetomo. On the women’s side, Hadenova Majid and Andini Putri Anatasya represented the country in the elite category. ***