No modelling, only boxing now, says Vijender

Sonipat, Nov 15 (UNI) Olympic Bronze medalist Vijender Kumar said he will now focus on boxing rather than giving time to modelling.

Middle-weight Vijender brought India's first bronze medal in boxing at the Beijing Olympics this year.

Vijender was here yesterday at the inauguration function of 22nd Haryana state games at Moti Lal Nehru school, being organised by the Haryana government from November 14-17.

''Right now I don't have any time for modelling and I am only doing practise to sharpen my attack,'' Vijender told UNI.

After the Beijing Olympics, authorities have started coming forward to promote sports other than cricket.

The credit goes to shooter Abhinav Bindra, wrestler Sushil Kumar, boxers Vijender Kumar, Akhil Kumar and shuttler Saina Nehwal who proved their mettle at the Olympics this year where India fetched three individual medals.

''I think after my performance in Beijing people are now taking interest in other games also. Like cricket, boxing is also attracting youngsters.

''There was a time when every single kid wanted to buy a cricket bat, but things have changed and now they are buying boxing gloves,'' he added.

When asked about his interest in modelling he said, ''Boxing is my life and I can't think of anything else.'' ''It a dream comes true for me but its not the end and I hope that next time I will grab the gold at the London Olympics,'' he added.

He appreciated the work of Haryana government, saying ''the government is helping us a lot and I am thankful to CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda who is taking initiatives to promote sports in the state.'' UNI CS KK BST1106