Malaysian middle-distance runner Wan Mohd Fazri Wan Zahari encountered a disruption to his travel plans shortly before the start of the Asian Games athletics competition but remained focused on his event. The national men’s 800-meter athlete and the Malaysian athletics team were scheduled to fly from Yamagata to Nagoya on Monday, ahead of the competition beginning Thursday at the Nagoya City Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium. However, the flight was delayed after the aircraft developed a technical fault, forcing the team to disembark and remain at the airport for an extended period.

Fazri described the unexpected delay but emphasized the team’s composed response. “We had already boarded the flight when, an hour later, we were told to disembark as the aircraft had developed a technical fault,” he said. Training at an altitude of 1,000 meters in Yamagata had prepared the athletes well, and the move to Nagoya was intended to finalize their readiness. Despite the disruption affecting their mood temporarily, Fazri noted that the team managed the situation professionally, with no one becoming overly stressed. The squad eventually arrived in Nagoya later the same day.

Since arriving, Fazri has concentrated on preparing for his 800m event under the guidance of new middle and long-distance coach Mohamed Azharudeen. The runner praised Azharudeen's systematic training approach combined with a balanced, friendly dynamic. “Training under him has helped me a lot. He is very systematic and firm when necessary, but we still maintain a friendly relationship,” Fazri said.

Reflecting on the competition ahead, Fazri recognized the challenge posed by the field. His personal best time stands at 1:47.64, recorded at the 2025 Asian Championships in Gumi, South Korea. This season, however, his fastest time has been 1:50.92, achieved during a runner-up finish at the Taiwan Open. He outlined his race strategy as aiming to stay within the lead pack to improve on his personal record, while managing expectations pragmatically. “The 800m race is going to be quite tough, so my strategy is to stay with the lead pack to improve my personal best. I’m not putting pressure on myself or stressing over specific targets or finishes,” said Fazri.

He also expressed appreciation for the host nation’s hospitality and the conducive training environment. “Japan has been fantastic. The climate and weather make it an ideal location for a training camp, and I’d certainly be open to returning if it fits into the coach’s plans,” Fazri added.

The athletics events at the Asian Games are set to commence Thursday, with Fazri among those aiming to make a strong showing in a competitive 800m field.