Vijender wants Baton Relay to make Bhiwani stopover

As the Queen's Baton Relay for the Commonwealth Games continues its 100-day journey through the country, Olympic bronze medallist boxer Vijender Singh on Wednesday demanded that it should also make a stopover in his hometown Bhiwani.

Vijender, who hails from the Kaluwas village in Haryana, said he has taken up the issue with the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president Suresh Kalmadi as he strongly felt that the baton should make a stopover at places that have produced champions.

"It's not just about me, several of our other well-performing boxers come from Bhiwani and I feel the baton should go to places from where top athletes come. I think baton should come to Bhiwani as it would be a matter of pride for us," the 24-year-old said.

"I spoke to Mr Kalmadi about it and he has said something would be done. He would see if the route can be reworked," he added.

The world number one middleweight pugilist was among the first team of baton bearers who received it at the Buckingham Palace before it embarked on tour of 71 Commonwealth nations.

He was also present at the Wagah Border when the baton landed in India from Pakistan.

"It has been an honour to receive it on both the occasions. I feel fortunate that I was considered worthy enough to be there both the times," he said.

The baton relay is passing through the 28 states of the country right now and would reach Delhi on October 3, the day Games would begin with an opening ceremony at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.