The thrill for the seasoned women’s boxing champion is in being a part of the Indian contingent.
“It’s the first time women’s boxing is a part of the Games. Everytime I have been at boxing events alone, this time it is different. It’s great to stay and travel with the Indian contingent. It’s a great feeling to represent your country,” said Mary.
Nicknamed ‘Magnificent Mary’ for her outstanding exploits in the boxing ring, the Manipur woman is being seen a sure-shot contender for gold.
No wonder, she was the star attraction at India’s flag raising ceremony held at the Games Village on Thursday.Draped in a pink saree, Mary looked a typical Indian housewife from the North East, certainly nowhere close to the ferocious fighter she turns into once inside the ring.
But the cat was out of the bag soon: “I don’t know how to wear the saree. My friends helped me out with it.”
Mary has won four of her World Boxing Championship titles in the 46kg category and the last one, this September, she won in the 48kg category. In the Asian Games here, she will be competing in the 51kg category. “I never competed in the 51kg category that’s why there’s a little bit of pressure, but I am still confident. I have the experience too. So, I feel I can make up.”
The Indian star termed the Chinese and Phillipines boxers as her main challengers.
“I have done my homework. I know that the Chinese and the Phillipines boxers are good. Especially, the Chinese, who have quick reaction and are strong in counter-attack. Their movement is very fast.”
For the 27-year-old Mary, winning the gold medal will be fulfilling her childhood dream. It was her state champion, Dingko Singh’s gold medal win at the 1998 Asian Games that had fuelled her desire to become a boxer. She has had a great career. An Asian Games medal win will be an icing on the cake.
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