Panaji, May 13: With predictions taking the expected course, the Indian Navy finished their campaign with 22 points and pocketed the eighth Federation Cup boxing title on the final-day of the meet held at Calangute. Having a contingent of five boxers, excluding Dingko Singh, who pulled out due to injury, four naval pugilists made it to the finals. Only Ajit Pal could not make it to the medal round having lost to Suraj Badkar of Goa.
The pugilists of the host state too came up with the best ever performance when Praveen Shirodkar and Santosh Birmole bagged gold medals at the championship organised by the Goa Amateur Boxing Association. Indian Navy boxers were a cut above the rest with Suranjoy Singh, Rosemma Colony, Bipin Pyngorpe and V Sugesh all picking the gold medals. The initial bout between Suranjoy and Sundi Rajan (Andhra Pradesh) was easily a treat to the eyes as both fought hard to win the contest. Speed were the forte for both the pugilists but Suranjoy with a tinge of confidence and stamina made his rival pay the price.

Navy's Bipin picked their second gold medal, while Rosemma and Sugesh came up with two more golds.

While Rosemma accounted for Siddharth of Maharashtra, Sugesh won the gold in the super heavy weight category beating Venugopal, also of Maharashtra.

Bureau Report