Indian women’s boxing team to compete in China Open

May 26th, 2011 - 9:37 pm ICT by IANS  

New Delhi, May 26 (IANS) A six-member women’s Indian team will participate in the second China Open boxing tournament from May 27 to June 4.

The tournament that will take place in Guiyang City, the capital of Guizhou province, will have bouts in three weight categories as per Olympic Standards. The Indian team includes three boxers and three support staff.

The participation in these competitions is the beginning of the first phase of Indian Amateur Boxing Federation’s (IABF) preparation for the qualifier event of the London Olympics, the AIBA Women’s World Championships scheduled to be held in May next year.

Leading the Indian charge would be gold medallist at the 34th national games, Pooja Rani in the middle weight category.

Sonia Lather (51kg) and Monica Suan (60kg) who performed well in the youth circuit tour have also made it to the squad.

Pooja who missed the gold by a whisker at the Arafura games, is keenly looking forward to this opportunity to build on her international experience.

“My aim is to qualify for the Olympics. A good performance here will certainly help my cause. Last time I missed on the gold, but I will try my level best to get it this time,” said the 20-year-old.

National Coach Anoop Kumar said the China Open is a good exposure for the Indian girls as it would be the first international event for them.

“It is not going to be easy but this tournament will provide a perfect platform to train the boxers for events like the Asian and World Championships.

“We are not looking for medals at this point, it will be a big learning experience for them.”

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