Golds for Sarjubala, Sonia; RSPB lift title

Rohtak : Former world silver medallist Sarjubala Devi (48kg), representing Manipur, won gold as the Railways Sports Promotion Board emerged overall champions in the national women’s boxing championships here on Friday.

Sarjubala defeated Haryana’s Ritu 3-2 to clinch Manipur’s only gold medal and her second successive national title.

She was also adjudged best boxer of the championships.

Former world and Asian champion L. Sarita Devi (60kg), of All India Police, also won, beating RSPB’s Pavitra in her final.

In the marquee clash of the day, world silver medallist Sonia Lather, representing RSPB, got the better of world youth champion, Haryana’s Shashi Chopra, in the 57kg category.

Sonia capitalised on her greater experience to outwit Shashi.

AIP’s Meena Kumari took the 54kg gold, beating Manisha (Haryana). RSPB’s Rajesh Narwal won the flyweight (48kg) crown defeating Monika (UP).

Traditional powerhouse Haryana managed to claim just one gold medal, through Pooja Rani (75kg). Pooja beat Alari Boro in her summit clash.

RSPB finished with five gold and two bronze medals overall.