Indian boxer Parveen Hooda delivered a strong performance at the Asian Games on October 1, securing a medal and clinching a Paris Olympic quota by reaching the semifinals in the 57kg category. Hooda, a bronze medallist at the 2022 World Boxing Championships in the 63kg division, achieved this feat by defeating Uzbekistan’s Sitora Turdibekova with a unanimous verdict in the quarterfinal.
In the women’s 50kg category, fellow Indian boxer Nikhat Zareen fought valiantly but had to settle for a bronze medal. Zareen faced Rakast Chuthamat of Thailand in the semifinals and, despite winning the first round, ultimately lost the bout 2-1 on a split decision. Her Thai opponent emerged victorious in the two following rounds, denying Zareen a spot in the final.
While the success of Parveen Hooda guaranteed India a medal and secured a Paris Olympic quota, the Asian Games brought mixed results for other Indian boxers. Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Jaismine Lamboria, competing in the 60kg category, was eliminated from the competition after conceding a second round to North Korean boxer Won Ungyong in the quarterfinal.
It’s worth noting that several Indian boxers had already secured Olympic quotas in their respective weight categories. Among them were two-time world champion Nikhat Zareen (50kg), Preeti Pawar (54kg), Lovlina Borgohain (75kg), and Narender Berwal (92kg). These athletes had previously secured their spots in the Paris Olympics, further adding to India’s representation in the boxing competition.
In addition to the boxing successes, other Indian athletes also made significant achievements at the Asian Games in Hangzhou. Indian shot putter Tajinder Pal Singh Toor defended his Asian Games gold medal by registering a throw of 19.83m on his last attempt. This victory marked his second consecutive gold medal at the Asian Games, with his best throw measuring 20.36m.
Avinash Sable secured gold in the men’s 3000m steeplechase event, marking India’s first gold in track and field at the Asian Games in 2023. This victory highlighted India’s growing prowess in athletics.
Indian athletes also made their presence felt in middle-distance events. Harmilan Bains clinched silver in the women’s 1500m race, while Ajay Kumar secured a silver medal and Jinson Johnson, the 2018 gold medallist, earned bronze in the men’s 1500m final. In the long jump final, M Sreeshankar claimed silver, contributing to India’s medal tally.
In multi-discipline events, Nandini Agasara won bronze in the women’s heptathlon, showcasing her versatility across multiple track and field events. Seema Punia secured a bronze medal in the women’s discus throw, further highlighting India’s achievements in athletics at the Asian Games.
Overall, Indian athletes have demonstrated their talent and competitiveness in various sports disciplines at the Asian Games, contributing to the nation’s success and showcasing their potential on the international stage. These achievements are a source of pride and inspiration for sports enthusiasts across India.
