The semifinal line-up of all four categories in the 2nd Senior Women's Boxing Championships completed on the first day at the Mohammad Ali Boxing Stadium yesterday with boxers from Bangladesh Ansar securing places in the last four clashes.
Bangladesh Ansar, who became champions in women's section in Bangladesh Games last year, saw all four of their boxers – Shahara Yeasmin, Farzana Johura, Nazma Akter and Khandokar Basona move into the semifinals in 46kg, 50kg, 55kg and 60kg categories respectively.
Other qualifiers are Rubi Khatun of Rajshahi, Ruma Khatun of Chapainawabganj Boxing Academy, Rahima Khatun of Bangladesh Police in 46kg category, Sumi Khatun of Rajshahi, Tania Sultana of Nari Uddyog and Nasima Akter of Bangladesh Police in 50kg category.
Lovely Akter of Rajshahi moved into the final of 50kg category while Nazma Akter of Police and Saki Akter of Ansar moved into the semifinals, Mitu Khatun of Chapainawabganj confirmed her 60kg final berth while Farida Khatun of Police and Basona will fight for the final spot in the same category.
Some 23 female boxers are taking part in the women's competition which was introduced in Bangladesh in 2010 through Victory-Day competition followed by Independence Day competition. Later, Bangladesh Amateur Boxing Federation introduced the women's national championship in 2012 and later 2013 Bangladesh Games also featured women's boxing.
Meanwhile, the first round in 10 categories of 27th National Senor Men's Boxing Championship also completed yesterday.