Inspired by Mary, Swapna targets re-entry into TOPS

Mary Kom's incredible sixth world championship gold medal win has inspired Asian Games gold medal winning athlete Swapna Barman. She is also hopeful of getting back into the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS).

"It's amazing to see what she's achieving at the age of 36. I'm just 22 now. I will also want to become like her. I don't know whether I would become like her, but there's no harm in trying," said Swapna who now aims to get into the 6200-plus points barrier at the Asian Championships in Doha next year.

Swapna was excluded from the revised TOPS as her show at the Asiad (6026 points) was well below the Olympic standards.

"I've nothing to comment on it (omission from TOPS). It's the decision by the sports ministry. I will just have to keep performing. I was in TOPS because of my performance. I'm sure to be back again if I start performing again," she said.

Swapna also added that she's waiting for her customised shoes to be delivered so she resumes training.

"We have given the measurements in Germany. I've heard it's already arrived in New Delhi. I'm just waiting for the shoes to get delivered here so we start practicing."

--IANS

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