(Sports news) Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu became the first athlete to win the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year award twice, winning the first award in 2021. The 28 year old joined the award ceremony in Delhi through a live link and said “I am really excited and want to say that I will be working even harder for the forthcoming Olympic Games and win more medals for India.” The likes of Vinesh Phogat and Sakshee Malik were also shortlisted along with boxer Nikhat Zareen and badminton player PV Sindhu.
After winning the Commonwealth Gold, table tennis player Bhavina Patel was named Para Sportswoman of the Year, a category that was introduced for the first time. The 36 year old said “It is a gratifying feeling to win this prestigious award, which is part of a wonderful initiative empowering women and sportspersons. It is also commendable to see the BBC focusing on Para-sport and making India more inclusive.” Former hockey player and coach Pritam Siwach was awarded the Lifetime Achievement award, inspiring generations of players through her contribution in Indian sports.
The Emerging Athlete of the Year award was given to Boxer Nitu Ghanghas. The 22 year old is a two-time youth world champion and won the gold medal in the 2022 Commonwealth Games. She was presented the award by gymnastics great Simone Biles who said “Nitu works so hard and proved she was the best in her class at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.” In response, Ghanghas said “I am very happy. This will motivate female athletes to perform even better. Last year I was at this ceremony as a guest. So it’s a beautiful experience this year to be a winner. All my energies are now on Olympic preparation.”
India’s Commonwealth gold medal-winning lawn bowls team were also recognised for their historic achievement. The Changemaker of the Year award was given to 95-year-old Bhagwani Devi and 106-year-old Rambai. Devi received a gold medal in the 100m sprint at the World Masters Athletics in Finland and a bronze medal in shot put while Rambai won gold in both 100m and 200m at the 2022 National Open Masters Athletics Championships in Vadodara. The BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year first began in 2019 to recognise the best sportswomen in the country and shed light on the challenges faced by female athletes in India.
Also read: Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu wins BBC Indian Sportswoman Of The Year award
