India’s wrestling elite gears up for a pivotal showdown at the Asian Olympic Qualifiers in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, aiming to secure coveted spots at the Paris Olympics.
Road to Paris: Asian Olympic Qualifiers
As the final lap in the quest for Olympic quotas, the Asian Olympic Qualifiers hold immense significance for Indian wrestlers. This event precedes the World Qualifiers in May, marking the last chance for athletes to punch their tickets to Paris.
Vinesh Phogat’s Comeback and Other Highlights
From Vinesh Phogat’s highly anticipated return to the mat to Aman Sehrawat’s pursuit of his maiden Olympic berth, here’s a comprehensive overview of the 2024 Asian Olympic Qualifiers.
The Prize: Olympic Quotas
Unlike conventional tournaments, the Asian Olympic Games Qualifiers solely allocate quotas for the Olympics. Winning athletes in each weight category secure a quota for their respective nations, setting the stage for their journey to Paris.
Selection Conundrum: Deciphering WFI’s Criteria
The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) holds the prerogative to determine the selection process post-qualification. While the quota winners earn a significant advantage, the WFI may opt for final selection trials to ensure the best representatives for the Games.
Star-Studded Lineup: Indian Contenders
India boasts a formidable contingent comprising seasoned veterans and promising talents across various weight categories. Notable names include Vinesh Phogat, Deepak Punia, Aman Sehrawat, and Anshu Malik, among others.
Vinesh Phogat’s Weight Category Dilemma
Vinesh Phogat’s strategic move to compete in the 50kg category stems from Antim Panghal’s prior qualification in the 53kg division. Having clinched victories in both weight categories during selection trials, Vinesh sets her sights on securing an Olympic quota in Bishkek.
Path to Victory: Vinesh Phogat’s Challenge
To secure an Olympic quota, Vinesh Phogat must navigate through a series of rigorous bouts. Her journey begins with a matchup against South Korea’s Cheon Miran, followed by potential clashes with opponents from Cambodia, China, and Kazakhstan.
Event Schedule
The Asian Olympic Qualifiers span three action-packed days:
- April 19: Men’s Freestyle
- April 20: Women’s Freestyle
- April 21: Greco-Roman
India’s Contingent: A Rundown
India fields a robust squad across all disciplines, comprising talented wrestlers ready to showcase their prowess on the international stage. The contingent includes stalwarts like Deepak Punia, Vinesh Phogat, and rising stars like Aman Sehrawat and Anshu Malik.
Men’s Freestyle
- Aman Sehrawat (57kg)
- Sujeet (65kg)
- Jaideep (74kg)
- Deepak Punia (86kg)
- Deepak (97kg)
- Sumit (125kg)
Women’s Freestyle
- Vinesh Phogat (50kg)
- Anshu Malik (57kg)
- Mansi Ahlawat (62kg)
- Nisha Dahiya (68kg)
- Reetika (76kg)
Greco-Roman
- Sumit (60kg)
- Ashu (67kg)
- Vikas (77kg)
- Sunil (87kg)
- Nitesh (97kg)
- Naveen (130kg)
As the wrestling fraternity eagerly awaits the unfolding drama in Bishkek, all eyes are on India’s contingent as they vie for glory and Olympic berths at the Asian Olympic Qualifiers.
