Magnificent Mary steals hearts
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 06, 2012:
Manipur erupted in joy moments after MC Mary Kom punched her way into the semi-final beating her Tunisian opponent Maroua Rahali in the 51 Kg women's boxing quarterfinals in the Olympics.
In the process Mary has not only assured the country of another medal but has also become the first from Manipur to ever win an Olympic medal.
While some came out on the streets and broke into impromptu jigs and sang, others beat drums even as Mary's twin sons and young boxing students cheered at her Langol games village's academy.
"Mary's win has brought recognition for our tiny State, for the North East and for the country.
We are so happy with her win and at this stage a bronze is sure for her.
She will definitely punch her way to glory in her next two big fights," quipped Santosh Singh, one of the cheering youths.
The Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna awardee stormed into the quarterfinals after beating Poland's Karolina Michalczuk 19-14 on Sunday at the ExCel arena.
"Though Mary was a bit tense initially during yesterday's bout there was no sign of nervousness today," Ibomcha, her first coach and the man who introduced the boxing ring to Mary, said adding that he is confident she will go the whole way.
Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh said the fixed incentive award of Rs one crore for a gold medal in Olympics announced by the State stands unchanged.
"For silver and bronze, the incentive amount would be announced soon," Okram said while expressing his happiness over Mary's victory.
"Let's pray for her golden victory," Ibobi Singh, who also holds the Sports portfolio, said.
Exulting over the fine showing of Mary, Home Minister Gaikhangam prayed that she goes all the way to a Gold.
Referring to an earlier assurance from the Chief Minister, Gaikhangam said that process to promote Mary Kom to the post of Additional SP in the State Police has been finalised.