Parents of children who participated in the Junior Cycling Malaysia (JCM) competition have come to the defence of both the organisers and Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.

Commenting on the photographs of Khairy presenting mock cheques as low as RM10 to children who participated in the competition which had gone viral on Wednesday, Facebook user Rosida Abd Mutalib said those who were not at the event would not know about the facts of the matter.

“We were among parents who were there as early as 6.30am. The environment was fantastic, we were so excited as though we were overseas for an international event.

“There have never been such events for my children to participate. Congratulations to the organisers, I strongly support Khairy’s move to hold this event,” she said, denying that she was trying to curry favour from Khairy.

Rosida said the event was one of the new platforms for children to hone their skills, especially since the younger ones need such events that cater to their age group.

“We don’t care about the cash prize issue because for us, they will enjoy all of that when they succeed,” she said.

Rosida said her children were happy even though they did not win any prizes.

“The children know that even if they win, they will only be given medals and certificates; receiving cash is a bonus,” she said.

Fellow parent Facebook user Azizah Yahya, on the other hand, told the public to “chill” over the cash prize issue.

“This competition is to find the next generation of cyclists […] As parents, it's the exposure that is invaluable, not the monetary benefit,” said Azizah whose two sons managed to win prizes during the competition.

“They just want to be on the podium, that's the happiness for them. Get certificates and trophies, the money is just a token.

“We just want them to be selected into the programme because the cost of sending them to train overseas is huge,” she said.

Excusing the organisers’ slip-up, Azizah said mistakes should be forgiven especially since it was an inaugural event.

Khairy thanked both women

Responding to both Rosida and Azizah, Khairy thanked both women in a Facebook post today.

“Appreciate very much your comments as parents who were there at the event. Your comments mean so much to me and gave me the spirit to continue programmes to find talents.

“You have a great attitude as parents and I wish your kids a great future in cycling,” he said.

The incident had gone viral after photographs taken during the prize-giving ceremony were spread online, with many criticising the small amounts.

Khairy, however, defended the small prize money and said that giving larger amounts might spoil the children, and foster a mindset where they compete simply for monetary gain.

He, nevertheless, admitted that the mock cheques were perhaps inappropriate, and that JCM would stop such practices in the future.

The competition took place in Serdang last Friday and Saturday, and was open to a variety of age groups, including for adults.

Besides cash prizes, those who won first to third place were also presented with medals.