Pugilist Mary Kom recommended for Khel Ratna

New Delhi, May 31 (UNI) World champion M C Mary Kom also joined the fray for the coveted Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna with the IABF recommending her name shortly before the deadline for nominations.

There was a suspense over her nomination because Indian Amateur Boxing Federation (IABF) had not received any application from her asking them to forward her name for the presitigious award.

However, IABF received her application this morning and immediately forwarded it to the Sports Ministry, strongly recommending her to receive the prestigious award.

The Manipur-based pugilist who has set new standards for Indian women boxing by winning three light flyweight world titles has already been bestowed with Padma Shree.

The IABF has recommended four boxers for the Arjuna awards and two coaches for the Dronacharya awards.

Also in the race for Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna is tennis ace Mahesh Bhupathi.

UNI