In a remarkable achievement for the sporting community of Akola, as many as ten promising boxers from the Akola Sports Academy and the District Sports Training Centre have earned the prestigious opportunity to represent Maharashtra at the upcoming U-19 National School Boxing Championship. This highly anticipated national-level competition is scheduled to take place in Bengaluru from February 5 to 9, 2024, bringing together the finest young boxing talents from across the country.
Selection Process and Pre-National Preparations
The selection of these ten Akola pugilists was finalized following a rigorous pre-national coaching camp held in Satara, where they showcased exceptional skill, determination, and physical prowess. This intensive training camp served as a crucial platform for evaluating and honing the abilities of young athletes, ensuring that only the most deserving candidates would advance to represent the state on the national stage.
Leadership and Support for the Team
The selected boxers will be accompanied and guided by their dedicated coach, Gajanan Kabir, whose expertise and mentorship are expected to play a pivotal role in their performance at the championship. The achievement has garnered widespread recognition and support from local dignitaries and sports authorities. Notable figures who extended their congratulations include former Murtizapur MLA Harish Pimpale, District Collector Varsha Meena, and Shekhar Patil, the deputy director of sports for the Amravati division.
Meet the Selected Boxers
The roster of selected athletes comprises a balanced mix of male and female boxers, each competing in specific weight categories, reflecting the depth of talent emerging from Akola's boxing programs.
Boys' Team Representatives
- Vivek Tayade will compete in the 46 kg category.
- Ravindra Padvi is set to participate in the 49–52 kg weight class.
- Chetan Ambhore will showcase his skills in the 56–60 kg division.
- Rizwan Shah has been selected for the 60–64 kg category.
- Rehan Hussain will contend in the 64–69 kg weight range.
- Rushikesh Chavan rounds out the boys' team in the 75–81 kg class.
Girls' Team Representatives
- Samiksha Solanke will compete in the 45–48 kg category.
- Shraddha Khobragade is selected for the 48–51 kg weight division.
- Bhakti Chungade will participate in the 75–89 kg class.
- Vedshri Gotmare has earned her spot in the 89 kg and above category.
This selection not only highlights the individual accomplishments of these young athletes but also underscores the effectiveness of Akola's sports training infrastructure in nurturing boxing talent. As they prepare to compete in Bengaluru, these boxers carry the hopes of their community and the state of Maharashtra, aiming to make a significant impact at the national championship.
