For the first time in the history of the Olympics, women boxers will be a part of the 2012 London Olympics. And India’s golden girl, MC Mary Kom, a five-time World Champion title holder, is ready to face the big challenge.
“To be participating in the Olympics is a matter of great pride,” says Mary, adding, “The introduction of women’s boxing in the Olympics has opened up new opportunities for young women boxers all over the globe. And though I’ve won the World Championship title five times, this will be a great chance to for me to prove myself.”
While talking about things other than sports, we cannot miss asking Mary about her bright red nailpolish and her heart-shaped ring. “So, what if I’m a boxer? Can’t I dress up?” she asks. “People think that boxers only know how to throw punches and fight. They should broaden their horizons… Boxers can dress up and look good too.” Mary confesses that she’s a very fashion-conscious person and keeps on changing her style.
“I am a very fashion conscious person, and I love shoes and accessories. And though I don’t get much time to dress up and all that, but whenever I do, I try my best to look nice,” she laughs.
Mary says that though she is physically strong, mentally she is very emotional. “When I leave for the practice sessions in Patiala, I start thinking about home. Bahut miss karti hun main apne bachchon ko.” This year, her son, K Khupneiver, who was suffering from congenital heart disease, had to undergo a heart surgery. She says, “My son’s surgery was successful, but there was lot of mental stress. Right now, I’m much more stable, and am able to concentrate on my game. I want to get back in action. God has been very kind to me. He’s helped me to deal with all kinds of situations… My child is fine and his health is improving.” Talking about her kids, she tells us excitedly, “My twins are celebrating their fourth birthday today. And though I cannot visit them, but there’s a surprise in store for them… Kitne jaldi bade ho gaye hai mere bachche.”
Getting back to sports talk, she says, “The federation had promised us that we would get a foreign coach to train us for the Olympics, but so far nothing has been sorted out. We are still hoping. Our Indian boxing coach, Fernandez, has been very kind to train us every Sunday. Also, in NSNIS Patiala, the girls are getting trained in a better atmosphere.”
