Manipur hosts boxing championship for budding pugilists

Over 300 boxers, including 113 female players, participated in the state level boxing championship held at Khuman Lampak stadium in Manipur.

The three-day long tournament was organized by Manipur Amateur Boxing Association with an aim to promote young budding boxers.

Participants competed in different categories like 5th Sub Junior, 22th junior, 27th senior, 4th Sub Junior girls, 8th junior girls and 14th senior girls.

Many of them have chosen boxing after getting inspired by champions like Suranjoy Singh and Mary Kom.

"I saw boxer Suranjoy Singh playing at the Commonwealth Games in 2010. So, even I want to play like him, and I want to play in the Olympics in my future," said a player, Yaiphaba.

After a tough fight, Imphal West District became the overall team champion by winning 21 gold, 4 silver and 15 bronze medals.

Such events provide an opportunity to young players to showcase their skills and prepare them to participate at the higher level tournament.

"I want to become a famous boxer like Mary Kom," added another player, Ranjita.

The Northeast has produced several boxing icons like Mary Kom, Shiva Thapa and Devendro Singh who have won laurels for the country at the international level.

The success of these sportspersons provides inspiration to many aspiring boxers.