VietNamNet Bridge – Nguyen Thi Tam made Vietnamese boxing history after bringing home the gold medal at the Asian Women’s Amateur Boxing Championship which closed in HCM City on November 9.

Nguyen Thi Tam celebrates after winning a gold medal at the Asian Women’s Amateur Boxing Championship, which wrapped up in HCM City on November 9. — Photo baochinhphu.vn

Tam defeated Pang Chol-mi of North Korea, who won the gold medal at the recent Ulaanbaatar Box Cup, with a score of 3-2 in the final of the women’s 51kg division.

It is the first time a Vietnamese female boxer has won a gold medal in the Asian event.

Earlier, Viet Nam’s best results in the tournament were two silver medals by Ngo Thi Phuong (48kg) and Nguyen Thi Vui (60kg) in the 2008 version.

“My rival was very strong. However, I saw her weak points so I fought back strongly. With the support of fans on the hometurf and a comfortable psychology, I was focused and beat Pang. This win will be the driving force for me to play at the upcoming Asian Games,” said Tam.

Besides Tam’s gold medal, Viet Nam won four more silver medals thanks to Le Thi Bang (54kg), Nguyen Thi Huong (81kg), Tran Thi Oanh Nhi (over 81kg) and Luu Thi Duyen (60kg).

The event drew 107 boxers from 22 countries and territories, competing in 10 categories from U48kg to over-81kg.

The championship helped Vietnamese boxers to better their skills and spirit and look forward to bigger events such as the Asian Games and the Olympics. 

VNS