The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) has ratified the gold medal for long jumper Anju Bobby George at the IAAF World Athletics Final in Monte Carlo in 2005.
IAAF upgraded Anju to the top spot after the disqualification of Russia’s Tatyana Kotova, who had finished ahead of the Indian in the meet but later failed to clear a dope test.
Anju’s 6.75 metres leap had earned her the silver then, behind the Russian’s 6.83 metres effort.
With this achievement, Anju became the first Indian athlete to win a gold medal in the World Athletics Final.
The Indian star had previously won a bronze medal in the 2003 World Championship, gold in the Asian Games and Asian Championship, besides a bronze in the Commonwealth Games.
“It is a great privilege for Indian athletics and I am humbled. As an Indian athlete, I am indebted to my fans, coaches and the Athletic Federation of India (AFI) for their support,” said Anju. — Special Corresponedent
