Mary Kom to lead India’s challenge at boxing Worlds
NEWDELHI: Five-time world champion and Olympic bronze medallist Mary Kom will lead the Indian charge at the AIBA World Elite Women’s Boxing Championships, to be held here from November 15-24. Along with Mary Kom, who will compete in the 48kg category, nine others pugilists have been selected to represent India.
Pinky Jangra (51kg), Manisha (54), Sonia (57), Sarita (60), Simranjit (64), Lovlina (69), Saweety Boora (75), Bhagyabati Kachari (81) and Seema Poonia (+81) are the other members, making it a strong 10-member squad.
Of the 10 boxers, five --- Mary Kom, Lovlina Borgohain, Sarita Devi, Baghyabati Kachari and Simranjit--- have made it to the team on the basis of their performances in Poland (13th International Silesian Championships) and Turkey (32nd Ahmet Comert Tournament). Mary Kom had won gold at the Poland meet earlier this month.
FENESTA OPEN TENNIS
NEW DELHI: Young tennis players will get an opportunity to showcase their skills when the 24th edition of the Fenesta Open National Championship kicks off from October 1. Siddhanth Bhantia is the favourite in the U-18 boys’ list, followed by Megh Patel. Arjun Kadhe headlines entry in the men’s section, followed by Manish Sureshkumar. Zeel Desai and Mahak Jain will lead the fight for women’s title.
DELHI HALF MARATHON
NEW DELHI: Four-time Olympic gold medallist athlete Sanya Richards-ross has been named the event ambassador for the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon scheduled to be held on October 21. “It is an honour to be the ambassador of one of the world’s most prestigious half marathons,” said Sanya, who is the fastest American woman in the history of 400m with her time of 48.70 set when winning at the 2006 IAAF World Cup. “Running a half marathon is so much hard work, remaining disciplined and determined, the same mentality one can use to achieve other goals.
“The city has shown tremendous affinity to the race, which is evident with the increasing participation numbers every year. I’m excited about this role and will be happy to share my experiences and hope I can inspire everyone starting the race,” she added.
INDIA ROUT BHUTAN 4-0
NEWDELHI: India U-18 girls kicked off their SAFF U-18 Championship campaign with a bang in Thimphu on Friday, routing hosts Bhutan 4-0 to take a healthy lead at the top of Group A Devneta Roy was the star of the show as she netted two goals and created several other chances.
AUS OPEN PROGRAMME
NEWDELHI: The Australian Open launched its 2019 international ball-kids programme – the first time in India – in presence of former Australian tennis doubles star Todd Woodbridge at the RK Khanna Stadium. As part of the program, local kids will give tryouts for the Grand Slam event next year.