Eyeing a sixth world title, Mary Kom for ‘smart’ training

The 35-year-old had pulled out of the Asian Games due to a shoulder problem, but is expected to be back in action at the World Championships to be held in New Delhi in November.

“One thing I am certain of that if I don’t get any injury and give 100 per cent in my training then I definitely can say that I am going to win the World Championship. If something in between happens then I can’t say. But I am healing well,” she told reporters here.

“I am training smartly for the World Championship. Six-seven years ago we would train for two-three hours but now it is not required. We are able to do everything in an hour of training. Staying fit is very important for a comeback so I would say one should be clever with the training,” she added.

Talking about the performance of the young generation of women boxers, the Commonwealth Games gold medallist said it was ‘unfortunate’ that the girls were not able to win medals at Gold Coast.

“The girls are training well, working hard. I want them to perform well at the Asian Games and get medals. The federation is taking initiative to see what is better for the boxers,” Mary said.

Asked about her comeback and what keeps her motivated, the diminutive Manipuri said, “Winning for my country keeps me going. I don’t ask myself if I can (perform) I ask why can’t I?”

Being a sportsperson and a mother can be difficult and Mary, like any parent has her regrets about missing out on spending time with her children.

“My children saw the CWG and felt very happy. They were able to understand the feeling behind it. They want me to do well but miss that connection with their mother.

“Unfortunately, I am not able to give them the time but it’s okay I will stay with them through life. My years of boxing will be shorter than the time I spend with them,” she said.