December is fast approaching—and so is the biggest sporting stage in Southeast Asia. The region’s brightest talents are gearing up for the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand, where passion, pride, and perseverance will take center stage.
This year, three Polygon athletes will carry Singapore’s colors into battle across the mountain bike and road cycling arenas—Riyadh Hakim, Arfan Faisal, and Dalvin Koh.
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At a glance, you might pass them on the street without notice—calm, grounded, unassuming. But mention bicycles, and everything changes. Their eyes light up and their passion becomes impossible to ignore.
It is this burning dedication that unites them, as they prepare to raise the Singapore flag high on the regional stage. Riyadh will take on the mountain bike course, while Arfan and Dalvin power the road race squad.
Pride and Challenge
For Arfan, wearing the Lion’s crest is more than an achievement—it’s an honor. “Whenever I talk about the SEA Games to my family and friends, there’s always a certain level of pride. It’s something I cherish, and I hope I can bring even more pride to the country,” he shares
This year presents fresh challenges, with cycling events split between Bangkok and Chonburi. Unlike Singapore’s mostly flat terrain, Thailand will push riders into long, punishing climbs. “As part of the road race and team time trial, there are significant climbs. I’m looking forward to it,” Dalvin says. In the Team Time Trial, he’ll face over 30 km of elevation—where communication, rhythm, and trust among the Lion squad will be crucial.
When asked about rivals, the team is aligned: the host nation Thailand, and a rising powerhouse—Indonesia. Indonesia claimed 5 out of 9 cycling golds in 2023, proving their dominance. “They have really strong mountain bikers. They’ve shown they’re one of the best in the region. But I’m giving my best shot—I can compete with the best,” Riyadh says with certainty.
Locked In. Geared Up. Ready.
Ahead of the SEA Games, Arfan and Dalvin sharpened their form at the Masters of Chiang Mai in October. The results were promising—Dalvin took P4 overall in GC, while Arfan sprinted to P3 in the Stage 2 Criterium.
With SEA Games 2025 marking Dalvin’s debut, the stakes are high—yet he’s embracing the moment.
“Representing the Nation always comes with pressure. But I’ll turn that pressure into drive, and give my best for Team Singapore,” he declares.
For Riyadh, the mission is clear. After earning bronze at the XCE Mountain Bike Asian Continental Championship in China, and as Singapore’s MTB National Champion, he is hungry for a breakthrough.
“The past two SEA Games weren’t my best. Stress affected my performance. But this year, with more experience—and with the event being my specialty—I really want to do well.”
To Arfan, the SEA Games journey is more than a competition—it’s a moment to be lived. “It’s all about the journey and the process. I’m excited for what lies ahead, and hopefully, we can deliver a strong victory,” he says.
The countdown begins. The stage is set. The Lions are ready.
Let’s rally behind Team Singapore as they chase glory at the 33rd SEA Games, happening 9–20 December 2025.
Read also: Inside 2025 National MTB Championships
