Manipur’s boxing heritage continues to shine on the global stage, with Longjam Radhamani of Sarita Regional Boxing Academy securing a gold medal in the 60kg category at the 3rd Belt and Road International U17 Girls Competition held in Xinjiang, China.
Her commanding performance against some of the most talented young boxers from across Asia is being hailed as a proud moment not only for Manipur but also for India’s sporting community.
A Rising Star from Manipur
Trained under the guidance of seasoned coaches at the Sarita Regional Boxing Academy, Radhamani has steadily risen through the ranks of junior boxing circuits. This latest win adds an international gold to her growing list of achievements, marking her as a promising face of Indian boxing.
The academy, founded by renowned boxer Sarita Devi, has been instrumental in nurturing young talent, particularly women athletes from Manipur who have consistently contributed to India’s medal tally at world events.
Significance of the Win
The Belt and Road International Competition is considered an important platform for upcoming athletes, giving them exposure to international standards of boxing. Radhamani’s victory in the 60kg category demonstrates not just individual brilliance but also the depth of talent coming out of Manipur – a state often called the “powerhouse of Indian sports.”
Her success also highlights the effectiveness of grassroots sports academies that have focused on discipline, rigorous training, and instilling confidence in young athletes.
Voices of Pride and Celebration
Celebrating her achievement, officials from the Manipur State Sports Department called it a “moment of immense pride,” emphasizing that such victories encourage the next generation to pursue sports with determination. The academy, too, lauded her hard work and credited her family’s unwavering support for helping her reach this milestone.
On social media, fans and sports enthusiasts across India flooded timelines with congratulatory messages, many pointing out that Radhamani’s success is a continuation of Manipur’s tradition of producing world-class women athletes in boxing, weightlifting, and martial arts.
Looking Ahead
Radhamani’s victory will likely pave the way for more opportunities at higher levels, including the AIBA World Youth Championships and possible inclusion in national training camps. Her performance has already caught the attention of selectors who see her as a strong contender for future senior-level tournaments.
For now, the gold medal win in Xinjiang is a celebration of perseverance, talent, and the fighting spirit that defines Manipur’s athletes.