HÀ NỘI — Nguyễn Thị Tâm claimed a bronze medal in the women’s 51kg category at the Asian Games (ASIAD) in Indonesia yesterday.

It was the country’s first boxing medal at this year’s games.

The 23-year-old boxer lost to Pang Chol Mi of North Korea 4-0 in the semi-final, having beaten her in the final of the Asian Boxing Championships in HCM City last year.

 “Pang is a big rival and I tried my best. This is the first time I have competed at ASIAD, so I don’t have much experience. However, I am happy with the result,” said Tâm.

“Last year, Tâm beat Pang, but it doesn’t mean she can beat her every time,” said coach Nguyễn Như Cường.

Tâm, who was born in Quỳnh Phụ District, Thái Bình Province, began training at the age of 14. During her career, she has won gold medals in the junior national championships from 2009 to 2013. From 2014 to 2017, she triumphed at the national senior boxing championships and won a gold medal in the Asian event last year.

“ASIAD is very difficult compared to other events. It’s really tough to wina medal. My bronze medal will be the driving force for me to compete at upcoming tournaments,” Tâm added.

More success

Việt Nam won another bronze in the sepak takraw in men’s fours event after losing to Japan 0-2 in the semi-finals.

In the women’s fours, Việt Nam beat the hosts Indonesia 2-1 in the semi-finals and will meet Thailand in the final today.

 “Thailand are also very strong, but in sport anything can happen. We hope we can win the gold medal,” coach Hoàng Thị Thái Xuân.

Việt Nam have won four golds, 15 silvers and 18 bronzes and rank 16th in the medals tally. China are top of the event with 116 golds, 81 silvers and 60 bronzes. — VNS