London 2012 Boxing

London 2012 Boxing: Not just about disappointment for Indian male boxers 

The disappointment of failing to finish on the podium is hard to get over, but India's male boxers on Thursday said London Olympics was not completely a sad story for them despite the setbacks.

Felicitated by team sponsors Monnet Group for putting up a fine display, the boxers -- L Devendro Singh (49kg), Shiva Thapa (56kg), Jai Bhagwan (60kg), Manoj Kumar (64kg), Vijender Singh (75kg) and Sumit Sangwan (81kg) -- spoke about their experience at the biggest sporting show on earth.

"Mistakes happen, we should learn from them and move on," said Beijing Games bronze-medallist Vijender, who lost in the quarters in London ending his dream of a back-to-back Olympic medal.

"I am sure we will be back stronger and better. Just wait," added the 26-year-old and former world number one.

In London, Indian boxing's only medal, a bronze came through five-time world champion woman boxer M C Mary Kom. The men could not go beyond the quarterfinal stage even though there were some lion-hearted performances by the likes of Manoj and Devendro.

"I felt I was the winner but my opponent was getting points. Once I realised I would not win, I just focused on highlighting how bad my opponent was. And he was forced to admit after the bout that he fought badly," said Manoj, recalling his narrow quarterfinal loss to home favourite Thomas Stalker.

"I am a simple man, I revelled in the wonderful atmosphere. It was a huge stage for me and I had nothing to lose. I am glad that people took note of my fighting spirit and applauded my performance," added the Commonwealth Games gold-medallist.

For the 20-year-old Devendro, who also lost in the quarters, and 18-year-old Shiva, ousted in the first round, being at the world's biggest sporting spectacle was awe-inspiring.

"We could not get a medal and that will hurt. As for me, I am an aggressive boxer and my energy was helped by the crowds. It was very motivating to hear people chanting your name," said Devendro.

"We have been to international events but nothing matches the Olympics. Such huge crowds, the pressure, it was all an experience of a lifetime," added Shiva.

Sumit, on the other hand, got over his fears.

"Before going to London, I always feared whether I can handle pressure but after this, I have become very sure of myself," said Sumit.

"Now I will compete in the World Series of Boxing and work on my endurance," he added.