Olympian Mary Kom aims for Tokyo 2020

SportsCafe Desk
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Mary Kom has admitted that she hopes to participate at the 2020 Olympic games in Tokyo, but her "main focus" will be on the 2018 Asian and Commonwealth Games. The London Olympics medallist also added that she was working hard to extend her boxing career by three to four years.

"I am attending the national camp at IG Stadium. I just want to continue for another three-four years. If 48kg is included in 2020 Olympic Games, I will give it a shot and try win a gold medal for my country," Mary Kom was quoted saying by PTI.

"I have started training and though I could not participate in the boxing nationals due to the Parliament session, I want to represent India in international competitions. 2018 Asian Games, Commonwealth Games are main my focus and I will also look to compete in other official international competitions."

The 33-year-old's boxing academy, Mary Kom Regional Boxing Foundation (MKRBF), started its association with Petroleum Sports Promotion Board (PSPB) on Monday. The deal with PSPB will ensure that athletes are well taken care of by extending support towards the refurbishment of a residential block. Along with that, a payment of Rs 75 lakhs over a five-year period is also in order to facilitate sportspersons at the academy.

"Women boxing is becoming more popular. I just want to give back to my sport and my nation. To produce more champions from my academy, that is my dream. I have gyms and outdoor rings to train the underprivileged youngsters," Kom added.

Kom also talked about why she was juggling her Parliamentary duty with that of the gruelling schedule of an international boxer.

"People might think how would I be able to devote time being a MP, but this has been a long-time dream. Most of the boxers suffer from poverty, so if I can do something for them that will be a great achievement for me, besides my medals."

The Sports Authority of India (SAI) have also come forward and offered their assistance to the academy.

"SAI is supporting us under its extension scheme through which each trainee boxer gets Rs 600 per month, one kit. We are getting financial assistance through NDSF (National Sports Development Fund). SBI has given Rs 2 crore for building a hostel," the five-time World Champion said.

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