AIBA names Mary Kom ambassador for Women's Youth World Championships
The International Boxing Association (AIBA) has chosen five-time World Champion Mary Kom as the ambassador for its upcoming Women's Youth World Championships to be hosted by Guwahati from 19-26 November. AIBA stated Kom is an icon for Indian women and would also inspire young boxers at the event. The boxing competition would be held at Guwahati's Nabin Chandra Bordoloi AC Indoor Hall. Know more!
Why Mary Kom is the ideal choice
AIBA stated: "One of the greatest female boxers of all time, India's Mary Kom will be the AIBA Ambassador for the tournament. Few boxers have done more to spread boxing's core values and inspire new audiences to take up the sport."
It is an honor, says Mary Kom
After being chosen the ambassador for AIBA upcoming women's boxing event, Mary Kom said it was an honor to be a part of the "prestigious" international competition being held for the first time in India. The 34-year-old Manipuri boxer is currently in Vietnam for Asian Championships. Apart from five world titles, Kom also has the London Olympic bronze medal to her name.
Mary Kom on young women's boxing standards
Kom said, "The standard of boxing these young women are producing has never been higher, and with gender equality a priority for AIBA and the IOC, there have never been more opportunities for women to take up the sport and compete on the biggest stage."
AIBA unveils official mascot for Guwahati event
Meanwhile, AIBA also unveiled the official mascot for the 2017 Women's Youth World Championships: the one-horned rhino. It stated, "Native to the state of Assam, the region's most iconic animal is a classic Indian symbol of strength and endurance." Guwahati's Nabin Chandra Bordoloi AC Indoor Hall, which recently hosted FIFA U-17 World Cup, is preparing to welcome international athletes and fans once again.
