Mary Kom sails into final, Indians claim 3 Bronze in World C'ships

New Delhi, Nov 22 (UNI) Defending champion MC Mary Kom is just one step away from a rare treble after the Manipuri pugilist outpunched Jong Ok of North Korea to storm into the finals of the 46 kg category of the fourth World Women Boxing Championship here today.

Mary Kom had earlier beaten the North Korean in the final of the last World Championship and had no trouble in repeating the performance a round early in this edition.

Apart from Mary Kom, Jenny RL and Lekha KC have also advanced into the final of their respective categories.

While Jenny demolished Katie Dunn of Canada 25-19 in the 63 kg category, a charged up Lekha mauled Hungarian Anita Ducza 24-6 in the 75 kg category.

However, Chhotu Loura, Renu and Aruna Mishra failed to make the grade but are assured of a bronze, as both the losing semifinalists will be receiving a medal apiece.

While Aruna's 8-13 loss to France's Aya Cissko in the 66 kg category in the third round left her in tears, the final Indian in contention for the day, Renu, too could not match up to her American opponent Chitiqua Hemmingway and went down 7-10 in the 80 kg category.

Meanwhile, IOC President Suresh Kalmadi will be the Chief Guest at the finals tomorrow.

Eds: pick up from earlier series.

UNI PM AY BD1938