Satish Kumar, the first Indian boxer to qualify for the Olympics in +91kg category, is banking on his speed and endurance to come good at the Games next year.
At about six-foot-one-inch, Satish – an Asian Games bronze medallist and a Commonwealth Games silver medallist – may look taller than many, but he knows that he will have to face towering opponents in the Olympics. The 31-year-old Arjuna award winner is preparing himself for the challenge.
“Some boxers have the advantage of height. I bank on my speed and endurance. In super heavy category, the stress is on power. I want to counter that with speed and endurance,” Satish told Sportstar.
“As per the coaches’ instruction, I am working on my overall game. But the focus is on building strength. The postponement of the Olympics is an advantage as I get more time to work on the areas of improvement.”
Satish, weighing 95kg, is encouraged because of his unique status of being the first from the country to qualify in super heavy weight. “I am very happy and proud... also getting a lot of motivation. Hope to win a medal for the country.”
Satish, who got a taste of village life after 13 years, spoke about his plan for the lockdown period. “I stay in Noida. I knew we would not be able to get out of the room over there. I thought I should spend some time with my parents. It is much better than staying in the city.
“In the village there is a lot of open space. I can do my running and get some fresh air.”
Satish also stays busy with a variety of work, including working in the fields. “My children’s online classes are going on. I spend two-three hours with them. I play cards, ludo and carrom and devote some time for puja at the village temple.
“I go to our fields and work there. When wheat cutting was going on, I did my bit. Happy to be involved in agriculture after so many years,” said Satish, with a sense of satisfaction.
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