Boxers leave with high hopes

The Beijing-bound Indian boxing contingent left NIS Patiala on Thursday morning after a month...

The Beijing-bound Indian boxing contingent left NIS Patiala on Thursday morning after a month-long camp in preparation for the Olympics. The pugilists — Vijender, Akhil, Dinesh, Jitender and AL Lakra — said they are in prime form and would leave no stone unturned in their attempts.

“I am eyeing a gold, but I would like to win anything for my country,” said Vijender, who will represent India in the 75kg category.

“The rigorous sessions we have had under our coach are meaningless till we get a medal. I have nothing more to say than the fact that I am determined to get an Olympic medal around my neck,” said Dinesh.

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Akhil added that he was in top form. “Whether I get a medal or not depends on destiny, but I will give it my best shot,” said the boxer, who will compete in the 54 kg category.

Coach GS Sandhu said: “We have some tough boys in the squad who are all focussed on just one goal and that is to win,” he said. “I have no doubt that this year would be a golden year in Indian boxing history.”

Jitender said it was time to repay the coaches. “They have worked hard on us. If we sweated for hours, they did too.”

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