Indian boxers take medals
New Delhi: Commonwealth Games gold-medallist Manoj Kumar and reigning national champion Mandeep Jangra led the charge as three Indian pugilists assured themselves of medals at the FXTM International limassol Boxing Cup by entering the semifinals in limassol, Cyprus. The Indians, making their debut at the event, competed under the International Boxing Association (AIBA) flag due to the country’s provisional suspension but nonetheless made a strong statement at the event. Manoj (64kg) defeated Frank Urquiaht of Spain 15-13 to advance into the semi-finals. He will now take on Diaa Twafeek Mohamed of Egypt in the semis. Mandeep (69kg) defeated Ahmad Al Naboudhe of lebanon in a lop-sided contest that had to be stopped midway due to the Indian’s domination. National champion Jagroop Singh (81kg) put in a power-packed performance against Ahrahim Ibrahim from Egypt, who retired hurt in the second round.
Anand finishes fourth
Sandnes (Norway): Going all out for a win to clinch the title, world champion Vishwanathan Anand suffered a heart-breaking loss at the hands of Wang Hao of China in the final round to finish a disappointing fourth in the Norway Super Chess tournament here on Saturday. Anand, who needed a win against Hao in the last round to win the title, was placed joint second going into his final game after his winning eight round encounter against local boy Jon ludwig Hammer. The shocking defeats of leader Sergey Karjakin and Magnus Carlsen, the highest rated player in the world, in the penultimate round also worked in Anand’s favour as it threw the championship wide open. But the loss to Hao in the final round broke Anand’s heart as he finish joint fourth along with Peter Svidler and levon Aronian on five points apiece.
Athletes flop in Shanghai
Shanghai: Ace Indian discus thrower Vikas Gowda finished sixth while Tintu luka ended ninth in 800m race in the second leg of the prestigious Diamond league Meetings series here on Saturday. Gowda could only come up with a 61.97m, which was a disappointing performance considering that he had cleared 65.82m only last month at Mesa in United States. In the women’s 800m race, luka finished ninth among 10 competitors with a disappointing 2:03.61 effort. luka holds the national record of 1:59.17. PNS/Agencies