Olympic Gold Quest’s aim to produce a medal winner in the Olympic Games got a shot in the arm after they took aboard four-time world women’s boxing champion Mangte Chungneijang Marykom on Thursday.
It will prove to be a significant signing for both the parties, considering that Marykom is one of the major contenders in her category.
Marykom, mother of two, feels this opportunity has come at the right time. “This is the third big news for me after the Khel Ratna award and inclusion of women’s boxing being in the Olympics,” she told DNA. “The OGQ offer has come at the right moment. Now I don’t have to worry about arranging money for the training. I can fully concentrate on training with 2012 Olympics in mind.”
Women boxing has been included in the London Olympics earlier this month. OGQ Chief Operating Officer (COO) Viren Rasquinha said they will be focussing on providing her monetary support. “We will look to develop an atmosphere that will improve her performance. A thing that has impressed us the most is her determination. She is a braveheart,” the former India hockey captain said.
He disagrees that Marykom has been roped in just because of her stature. “We already have one boxer (Sanjay Kolte) with us. People are saying that we have taken Marykom just because she is a star and is a favourite. But what they are forgetting is that in a physical sport like boxing, anything can happen. The Games are still three years away and between now and then, anything can happen,” Viren said.
But age can be a deterrent to her chances in the Olympics. Marykom, 27, will be 30 in 2012. “I know I will not be any young by 2012. But I don’t think much about it as I know I can remain fit. I have to work hard from now on if I have to achieve my goals. Olympic is a big motivation,” Marykom said.
Rasquinha feels boxers mature with age and if anything, it will only help her in a positive way. “If you see, most of the champion boxers have succeeded when they are more experienced. I don’t think age will be the factor,” he observed.
The OGQ is observing a few more athletes and hope to include them in them soon but Rasquinha refused to take any names. “We’re tracking many from individual sport. As I have said before, we will not be focusing on team sports now. There are a few boxers on our radar along with players from other sports,” he said.
