Once rated a medal prospect at the Tokyo Olympics, boxer Simranjit Kaur went through a low phase before arresting her slide.
A 2018 World championships bronze medallist and a two-time Asian championships medallist, Simranjit now looks back at the forgettable period — including a disappointing performance at the Olympics and two losses to up-and-coming Jaismine Lamboria in domestic events in the last one year — as a learning experience.
“When the Olympics was delayed owing to Covid, I thought it would be a good development. But, that was not to be. I was struck by Covid twice and my performance went down considerably,” said Simranjit, who is competing at the National Games here.
Lesson learnt
“It was a lesson. We need to remain fit mentally and physically. We cannot afford to let our game slip,” she said.
In order to remain ‘mentally fit,’ Simranjit does “visualisation” before a bout and listens to music. “Sometimes there are self-doubts — what if I lose?! I want to avoid such thoughts and focus on my performance,” she said.
Simranjit is realistic about career ups and downs. “I was determined to fight back. I did not stop training and finally got selected for the Asian championships. More than winning, I focus on boxing well.”
The 27-year-old — who lost to Jaismine twice before beating the youngster at the Asian championships trials — looks at the rivalry positively. “When I lost to her I felt bad, but I accepted the result. I learn from my mistakes and try to rectify them so that I don’t repeat those. Those bouts were closely-fought and could have gone either way. I had the mindset to land clear shots without giving her a chance,” she said.
Looking for gold
“It feels good to bounce back. My first target is to do well at the Asian event — win the gold. That will be a confidence-booster for the Olympics (preparations). After the (disappointment) Olympics, if I get a medal, then it will be good for my confidence.”
Simranjit is eager to use the National Games as a platform to build her momentum for the continental event in Amman later this month. “There is a gap of 15-20 days to get ready for the Asian championships,” she said.
