Serbia cup: Harpreet wins bronze, Mandeep disappoints

LUDHIANA: Though world junior boxing champion Mandeep Sandhu could not fetch any medal at the 5th edition of Nations Cup in Serbia, another Chakar girl Harpreet Kaur Sidhu, 15, did not disappoint and won a bronze in 52kg weight category.
Winner of silver medal in 2015 edition, Harpreet got every support from her parents who never stopped their daughter from dreaming big despite weak financial condition at home.
Harpreet joined boxing three years back after watching other Chakar girls in the boxing ring. In these three years, Harpreet has won two international, one national and several state-level championships. Major achievements include silver medal in 4th Edition of Nations Cup, Serbia; gold in National School Games- 2014; and six gold in state sub-junior championship.
Since girls joining boxing had become a ritual in Chakar village, initially boxing was just a game for Harpreet as there was no other sporting option for her in the village. Notably, in Chakar village more girls have taken to boxing as compared to boys.
However with time, boxing became her passion.
Boxing coach at Chakar village, Surinder Kaur, shared, "I remember when Harpreet decided to take up boxing three years back and how sincere she was. She has an attitude to learn. She has a lot of potential and I know she will go the distance in this game. I am proud of her for winning a bronze medal at Serbia."
She said villagers are equally excited for her victory and are preparing to give her a grand welcome.
However, her father is little disappointed as she did not win a gold medal.
Harpreet's father Major Singh, who is driver by profession, said, "Last year Harpreet won silver medal. So this year, I was expecting a gold from her. Winning bronze medal is good, but I am a little disappointed."
But her mother Sarbjeet Kaur was completely overjoyed with the victory of her daughter. She said, "So many boxers participate in an event, but there are just three medals and my daughter has managed to win one. It is a proud moment for me."
Harpreet in a telephonic conversation with TOI said, "I was expecting better results as I have worked hard for the event. But winning bronze medal is also fine. I will perform better next time."
Harpreet's coach Surinder said as Harpreet's family could not bear her expenses, Sher-e-Punjab Sports Academy of Chakar has been supporting her.
Mandeep and Harpreet are expected to be home by January 16.