SHILLONG, FEB 12: The 12th South Asian Games could not have come at a better time for boxer Sarita Devi who is making a return after the one-year ban imposed on her by the AIBA for a tearful outburst at the Asian Games in 2014.
“I haven’t been able to compete for a long time and the South Asian games have come just at the right time to give me that opportunity,” she said.
Ahead of the event, an emotional Sarita thanked the people of the country for standing firmly behind her during the difficult phase. Despite admitting that the games will pose a challenge to her, she was brimming with confidence, promised a gold for the country at the South Asian Games.
The Manipur star also has her eyes set on an Olympics medal which she feels will be the best gift for the people of the country and everybody else who rallied behind her during the one year of uncertainty.
“I am well prepared for the Olympic qualifiers,” she said.
Making a comeback after a year, Sarita was also happy about the fact that the event is being held in the North East.
“This has given an opportunity to us to perform at home,” she said adding that there is a craze about sports in the North East and hosting of events like the SAG provides people the opportunity to see their stars in action thereby motivating them.
“This will lead to the emergence of more Mary Koms and Kunjarani Devis,” she said.
With a twinkle in her eyes, she also narrated how the people of Manipur, despite all their problems, ensured that her fine amount of Rs 1.30 lakh was met by them.
“Was very down mentally during the ban period, but the whole country backed me and that pepped me up,” a visibly excited Sarita said.-By Our Reporter
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