India still look up to Mary Kom

The fivetime champion boxer still packs a punch at age of 35 and remains an inspiration

platform than the worlds at home.

Indian boxers will compete in all 10 categories. The experience of Mary Kom and L Sarita Devi, another stalwart who also won gold in 2006, will come in handy. It is also an opportunity for youngsters like Manisha Moun (54kg) and Lovlina Borgohain (69kg) to test themselves against the toughest in world boxing.

India’s Italian coach Raffaele Bergamasco, who has been with the team since December 2017, is confident. “We’ve had very good training and sparring against foreign boxers and we are well prepared. We look forward to a few medals. It’s not only Mary and Sarita but Manisha, Simranjit in 64, and Lovlina --- medals are possible.

“It is the best field in the last three editions. There are big names, 72 countries, 315 girls, all categories are very strong. Nothing will come easy.”

The three Olympic categories -- 51kg, 60kg and 75kg -- will be hard fought. AIBA is set to add 57kg and 69kg also for Tokyo.

“I have two years in India but I am happy the girls are improving. They are stronger now and working on a new methodology.”

22 Mary Kom (India)

Gold:

Silver:

1

Katie Taylor (Ireland) Gold:

Bronze:

1

5

5